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When investing in a piece of jewelry, it's natural to wonder how well it will retain its value years down the line. John Hardy jewelry, known for its artisan craftsmanship and sterling silver designs, is often purchased as much for personal enjoyment as for any notion of investment. But if you fast forward five, ten, or twenty years after buying a John Hardy piece, how much of its original value can you expect it to hold? Does a John Hardy bracelet bought in 2010 still fetch a good price in 2025?

The Rolex Datejust is one of the world’s most recognizable luxury watches, known for its timeless style and reliable performance. As a result, Datejust watches are not only beloved by their owners but also maintain strong demand on the second-hand market. Prices for Rolex Datejust models can range from a few thousand dollars into the tens of thousands, depending on factors like age, materials, and rarity. But what exactly determines how much a Rolex Datejust is worth, and how can you tell where your watch falls on the spectrum?

When people think of valuable vintage Rolex watches, sports models like the Submariner or Daytona often get the spotlight. However, the understated Rolex Datejust, with its classic looks and long history, has a strong following of its own. If you’ve come across a Rolex Datejust from decades past, you might wonder: is it actually worth much today? The answer is yes – vintage Rolex Datejust watches are indeed valuable, though their worth can vary widely depending on specifics. They may not always reach the stratospheric prices of certain rare sports Rolexes, but vintage Datejusts carry significant value both as collectible timepieces and as solid gold (or steel) investments in their own right.

Vintage Rolex Datejust watches span several decades of production, and their values cover a broad spectrum. Whether you have a Datejust from the 1950s with a classic champagne dial or a two-tone version from the 1980s, understanding its market worth requires looking at the watch’s era, configuration, and condition. In this full overview, we’ll break down the approximate values for vintage Datejusts by category and highlight what influences those prices.‍

Rolex has a well-earned reputation for strong resale value, and the Datejust is no exception. When you purchase a Rolex Datejust, you’re not only getting a refined and reliable luxury watch – you’re also acquiring an item that historically holds its monetary value better than most other watch brands. But how well does the Datejust really retain its value over the years? And what factors influence whether your watch might be worth as much (or even more) down the line?

The 36mm Rolex Datejust is the quintessential model that most people picture when they think of a Datejust. It was the original size introduced in 1945 and remains a mainstay in Rolex’s lineup today, worn by both men and women. Because the Datejust 36 has been produced for so many years and in so many variations (different metals, dials, bracelets, and eras of production), its value can range widely. In this complete valuation guide, we’ll focus on the factors that determine the worth of a Datejust 36 and give current price ranges for various types of Datejust 36 models – from vintage classics to brand-new releases.