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.
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Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm Ref 79174 2003 Full Set Watch
Designed for life’s special moments, this 2003 Rolex Lady‑Datejust 26mm lends understated polish from boardroom to black‑tie. Its compact profile and classic silver tones make it a refined companion for weddings, anniversaries and elegant dinners, while remaining perfectly suited to everyday city wear.
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 are the key specifications of this Rolex Lady-Datejust ref. 79174? A: It is a 26 mm Oyster case in stainless steel with an 18k white gold fluted bezel, sapphire crystal, and a stainless steel Jubilee bracelet. It features a date at 3 o’clock under a Cyclops lens and is powered by the automatic Rolex calibre 2235 chronometer movement. When new, the Oyster case was rated to 100 m water resistance; for a 2003 example, water resistance depends on current gaskets and testing. Please see the product information on this page for exactly what is included with this watch.
Q: Which movement does it use and what is the power reserve? A: The Lady-Datejust 79174 uses the Rolex calibre 2235, an automatic, COSC‑certified movement with 31 jewels, 28,800 vph, and an approximate 48‑hour power reserve.
Q: Does this watch have a quickset date and how do I use it? A: Yes, ref. 79174 has a quickset date. Unscrew the crown, pull to the second position to advance the date independently, and push/screw the crown back down after setting. As with any date watch, avoid changing the date when the hands are near midnight to protect the mechanism.
Q: Can I swim with this 2003 Lady-Datejust? A: The Datejust’s Oyster case was designed for everyday water resistance, but with a 2003 watch the integrity of seals depends on service history. We recommend only swimming after a recent pressure test by a qualified watchmaker and always ensuring the crown is fully screwed down. After saltwater, rinse with fresh water. If in doubt, avoid submersion.
Q: What wrist size will this bracelet fit, and can it be adjusted or changed to a strap? A: This example is sized to fit a wrist up to approximately 16 cm as noted in the product information and can be sized by adding or removing links. The lug width is 13 mm on the 26 mm Lady‑Datejust, so compatible 13 mm straps can be fitted by a professional if you prefer a leather look.
Q: How does the 26 mm Lady‑Datejust wear compared with current models? A: The 26 mm size is the classic, more petite Lady‑Datejust that many find elegant and discreet. Rolex later moved to 28 mm as the smallest catalogue size, so 26 mm pieces like this feel daintier than modern equivalents while retaining timeless proportions.
Q: What does the F‑serial number indicate for this watch? A: An F‑prefix serial typically dates a Rolex to around 2003–2005, aligning with the stated 2003 production year for this example.
Q: My Jubilee bracelet shows some stretch—can it be fixed? A: Yes. Stretch from long‑term wear can often be reduced by specialist bracelet tightening/restoration services, or links can be replaced where appropriate. A competent watchmaker can advise on the best route; some owners opt for a replacement bracelet instead.
Q: How often should I service a Lady‑Datejust and what might it cost? A: Rolex guidance is roughly every 10 years, though older pieces and heavier use may benefit from 5–7 year intervals. A full service typically includes movement disassembly/cleaning, replacement of worn parts and gaskets, lubrication, timing regulation, pressure testing, and case/bracelet refinishing if requested. Costs vary by region and condition; many reputable sources cite a typical range around $800–$1,200, with higher totals if parts are needed.
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.
Outside EU, Åland and UK: Please note that customers outside of EU, Åland and UK are responsible upon delivery for any import duties, goods and services tax (GST), value added tax (VAT), customs fees, and any other tax on top of the A Retro Tale listed price. Delivery delays may occur due to external factors such as customs clearance, holidays etc.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Europe: 1-4 business days.
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
7 270 €
• Stainless steel case, 26mm
• 18k white gold fluted bezel
• Silver dial with diamond hour markers
• Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
• Date display at the 3 o'clock position
• Comes as a full set with original box and papers
• From the year 2003
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Vintage Rolex Lady-Datejust 26mm Ref 79174 2003 Full Set Watch - A Retro Tale
