Rolex Datejust 31 Yellow Gold — Mother-of-Pearl Diamond Roman Dial | Ref. 178245

Executed entirely in 18ct yellow gold, reference 178245 positions the Datejust 31 firmly within the high jewellery tradition that has defined Rolex's precious metal offerings for decades. The 31 mm case in solid yellow gold carries the Oyster's trademark triple-lock crown and fluted bezel, here rendered in matching warm gold to create a seamless, monochromatic composition. The mother-of-pearl dial, set with diamond hour markers and Roman numeral indexes at select positions, shimmers with natural iridescence — no two examples appear identical given the organic variation inherent in MOP dials.

The Calibre 2235 self-winding movement powers this reference, offering Rolex's Superlative Chronometer certification to ±2 seconds daily accuracy. Built around a Parachrom hairspring and self-winding bidirectional rotor, the 2235 provides approximately 48 hours of power reserve within a movement profile optimised for the mid-size Datejust case. Water resistance to 100 metres is maintained through the screw-down Twinlock crown and solid case back.

For collectors seeking an all-gold Datejust 31 with gem-set appeal, reference 178245 represents a compelling balance of precious metal investment and horological refinement. The mother-of-pearl and diamond combination in yellow gold has a cross-generational following — equally at home on the wrist of a seasoned collector and a new enthusiast introduced to Rolex through high-jewellery appointments. Well-preserved examples with original bracelet and documentation command strong premiums, particularly as yellow gold Datejust 31 variants of this generation become increasingly difficult to source in unworn condition.