Rolex Datejust 26 Yellow Gold — Blue Diamond Dial with Fluted Bezel | Ref. 179238

Reference 179238 is the Lady-Datejust at 26 mm in solid 18ct yellow gold — one of the more compact and jewellery-oriented expressions within the Datejust family. The 26 mm case size, which predates the now-standard 28 mm Lady-Datejust, represents a generation of Rolex design in which ultra-slim proportions and high precious-metal content took precedence over movement visibility or wrist presence. Paired with a fluted yellow gold bezel and a blue diamond dial, this reference delivers an unambiguously formal, gem-set character.

The movement within is a self-winding Rolex manufacture calibre appropriate to this case generation, housed in the 26 mm solid yellow gold Oyster case that is water-resistant to 100 metres with a Twinlock crown. The blue dial set with diamond hour markers is a particularly striking combination — the deep, saturated blue contrasts handsomely with the yellow gold case and bracelet, while the diamond indices catch light in a way that uniform applied markers cannot. The President bracelet, typically paired with full yellow gold Datejust and Day-Date references, completes the luxurious ensemble.

The 179238 appeals to collectors who appreciate Rolex's all-gold, gem-set dress pieces in a genuinely wearable size. At 26 mm, the watch sits closer to fine jewellery than tool watch on the spectrum, and the blue diamond dial configuration is among the more distinguished within the reference range. These earlier-generation Lady-Datejust pieces in complete yellow gold are increasingly appreciated for their compact elegance and increasingly difficult to find in pristine, documented condition — qualities that support meaningful value retention.