Let’s get a close look at and compare two very versatile entry-level Rolex watches.
We once wrote a very detailed but to the point comparison of the Replica Rolex Datejust 41mm and the Replica Rolex Datejust II. Both series have excellent timepieces with some distinguishable differences which you can read about in that post at another time. Today, however, we will be reviewing a model from the 41mm Rolex Datejust series and comparing it against the Oyster Perpetual 39mm. Let’s jump right in, shall we?
Comparison: Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39mm VS Rolex Datejust 41mm
Of the ninety-plus models of 41mm Rolex Datejust currently available, the 126300 Black Index Oyster is possibly one of the most popular, and for several reasons. We will compare it against a very similar looking watch called the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39mm 114300 Black Oyster.
To start, these are what most would call excellent entry-level Rolex watches and account for two of the ten most affordably priced Rolex models for men. They both have a black sunray dial which by design make them both conservative models that can be worn either while dressed up or when casually dressed.
In general, entry-level Rolex watches for men are limited. The slightly smaller Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39mm has similar aesthetic features such as the oyster bracelet and dial color and case size weighing in at a smaller yet classic size of 39mm.
The Oyster Perpetual 39mm has slightly different index hour markers which are punctuated with a square-shaped printed 5-minute marker. The Datejust 41mm, on the other hand, uses printed Roman numerals for the 5-minute intervals combined with the same type of luminous applied index hour markers.
While it’s only a few millimeters smaller than the Datejust 41mm model that we are also reviewing here, and while the 39mm Oyster Perpetual has a lower price, there are big differences on the inside of the watch and significant reasons to opt for the 41mm Datejust model over the Oyster Perpetual 39mm, if it’s still within your price range.
Luxury watches have been showing a growing trend in having a larger and more prominent case size. The most recent models from just about every manufacturer at this point have been showing bigger and bolder case sizes. However, that shouldn’t be the main reason why you would choose the 41mm Black Index Oyster Rolex Datejust 126300. Then there is the movement…
One of the main reasons to choose the 41mm Datejust lies beneath the solid steel case back. The beating heart powering the Rolex Datejust 41mm is the Rolex in-house caliber 3235 which beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour and has a much longer power reserve of 70 hours on a full wind compared to the 48-hour power reserve found in the caliber 3132 that powers the 39mm Rolex Oyster Perpetual.
At least twice a year you will find another reason (although a practical and simple one) to appreciate choosing the 41mm model and that would be the would be the clasp. The clasp on the Rolex Datejust 41mm 126300 has a special feature called the Easylink 5mm comfort extension link, allowing you to without any tools, make small adjustments to the bracelet size to compensate for the way the wrist expands and contracts when exposed to changes in humidity and temperature.
The Oyster Perpetual 39mm, on the other hand, has a clasp that also allows for micro-adjustments to be made but would require a tool to make these small adjustments to the folding buckle.
Conclusion: Both watches have great features. The 39mm Oyster Perpetual has a price tag that is approximately $2,300 less than the Datejust but comes without the added date window that you will find on the Datejust 41mm and doesn’t feature the Easylink comfort extension link also found on the Datejust. The mechanical movement powering the Rolex Datejust 41mm features a significantly longer power reserve duration of 70-hours compared to the Oyster Perpetual 39mm which has a power reserve of only 48-hours.
