We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
Ideal for refined business meetings and elegant evenings, this 1996 Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm lends timeless polish to any look. Its classic two-tone aesthetic and discreet profile transition effortlessly from day to night, making it a sophisticated daily companion and a graceful choice for special occasions.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm (1996) ref. 69173? A: It’s a classic two-tone Rolex with a 26mm Oyster case, fluted 18ct yellow-gold bezel, champagne dial with Roman numerals, date at 3 o’clock and a two-tone Jubilee bracelet. Powered by an automatic movement, it offers timeless elegance for smaller wrists. This particular piece is from circa 1996 and is in very good vintage condition with light signs of wear; the hardware is shiny with minor scratches. Delivered with box as stated.
Q: Which movement does it use, and does it have a quickset date? A: Lady-Datejust models of this era typically house the automatic Rolex Calibre 2135, which features a quickset date. Exact calibre can vary by production; we’re happy to verify the movement in this specific watch on request.
Q: Is it water-resistant and can I swim with it? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres, but water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless the gaskets have been replaced and the watch has been professionally tested. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any contact with moisture.
Q: How do I set the time and date safely on this model? A: Unscrew the crown anti-clockwise. Position 1: manual wind (about 20–30 turns if it has stopped). Position 2: quickset the date. Position 3: set the time. Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly.
Q: Does it have a sapphire crystal and the Cyclops magnifier? A: Most Lady-Datejust ref. 69173 watches from the mid-1990s feature a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with Rolex’s Cyclops date magnifier. We can confirm the crystal on this exact watch upon request.
Q: What materials are used for the bezel and bracelet? A: The watch pairs stainless steel with 18ct yellow gold (Rolex “Rolesor”). The fluted bezel is solid 18ct yellow gold, and the Jubilee bracelet combines steel outer links with 18ct yellow-gold centre links for comfort and a signature two-tone look.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the bracelet be resized? A: This piece fits a wrist of approximately 16.5 cm or smaller as currently configured. We can size the Jubilee bracelet for you prior to dispatch. Additional links may be sourced (subject to availability and a fee); share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise options.
Q: How can I confirm the production year and reference? A: The reference is typically stamped between the lugs at 12 o’clock and the serial at 6 o’clock (bracelet removal required). Mid‑1990s pieces often carry a “T”‑prefix serial, corresponding to 1996. We can verify these details for you and provide additional photos on request.
Q: What accuracy and servicing should I expect from a 1990s Rolex automatic? A: A well-maintained example should keep good time, though performance varies with age and service history. A service every 5–10 years is generally recommended, or sooner if accuracy or water resistance is a concern. Keep it away from strong magnets and wipe with a soft cloth after wear.
Q: Is it authentic, and what do you include with purchase? A: A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. This listing is delivered with a box as stated. All watches include a 12‑month movement guarantee. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers; contact us for any specific delivery or warranty questions.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
The shipping fee will be clearly shown during the checkout process. In some cases—such as during promotions or depending on your delivery location—shipping costs may vary. If no special rates apply, the standard international shipping fee of $49 will be charged.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Womens watches
/ Lady-Datejust
64%
off retail price
• Stainless steel and 18k yellow gold
• 26mm case with a fluted bezel
• Champagne dial with Roman numerals
• Two-tone Jubilee bracelet
• Date display at 3 o'clock
• Automatic movement
• Circa 1996
