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.
An elegant choice for black-tie dinners and cocktail evenings, this two-tone Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm brings refined sparkle with its black diamond dial, fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet. A timeless 1999 piece that elevates formal occasions and lends polish to everyday looks.
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 Ref. 79173 (1999)? A: It’s a classic two‑tone Lady‑Datejust featuring a 26mm stainless steel and 18k yellow gold Oyster case, a fluted gold bezel, a black dial set with diamond hour markers, and a two‑tone Jubilee bracelet. This 1999 example is automatic with a date display at 3 o’clock.
Q: Which movement powers this watch, and does it have a Quickset date? A: The Ref. 79173 is powered by the Rolex Calibre 2235, a self‑winding chronometer movement. It includes a Quickset date, allowing the date to be adjusted independently via the crown, and offers an approximate 48‑hour power reserve.
Q: Does it use a sapphire crystal and Cyclops lens? A: Yes. This model is fitted with a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal and the signature Cyclops magnifier over the date for enhanced legibility.
Q: Is the watch water‑resistant? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres. However, as this is a vintage piece, water resistance cannot be guaranteed without a recent pressure test. We recommend treating it as splash‑resistant only and avoiding swimming or showering.
Q: Will it fit my wrist? A: This specific watch is sized to fit a wrist circumference of up to 16.5 cm. The Jubilee bracelet can be adjusted smaller by removing links; please note that no extra links are included with this listing.
Q: Is the 26mm Lady‑Datejust still produced by Rolex? A: No. Rolex discontinued the 26mm Lady‑Datejust in favour of the 28mm size in the mid‑2010s. The 26mm models are sought after by those who prefer traditional, jewellery‑like proportions.
Q: How do I set the time and date safely? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: wind the watch. Position 2: Quickset the date. Position 3: set the time. Avoid changing the date between about 9pm and 3am, and always screw the crown back down firmly afterwards.
Q: What is included with the purchase? A: This item is sold as the watch only (no box or papers). It is fully authenticated by A Retro Tale and includes our 12‑month movement warranty and secure, insured shipping.
Q: What is the condition of this piece? A: Rated Very Good, showing light traces of use. There are surface scratches on the case, case back and bracelet consistent with careful wear, as shown in the photos.
Q: What does the A‑serial number indicate? A: The A‑prefix serial (A678238) corresponds to the late 1990s production period; this example is from 1999, aligning with the serial range for that year.
SHIPPING TO THE US
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.
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 UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 2-4 business days.
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 all return shipments to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Retain your shipping receipt and tracking number until the return is completed and your refund is processed. Return shipping costs will be covered by A Retro Tale, and we will provide you with a prepaid return label.
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.
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.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Womens watches
/ Lady-Datejust
51%
off retail price
• Stainless steel and 18k yellow gold case, 26mm
• 18k yellow gold fluted bezel
• Black dial with diamond hour markers
• Two-tone Jubilee bracelet
• Automatic movement
• Date display at 3 o'clock
• From the year 1999