Rolex Datejust 31 White Gold — Fluted Bezel Silver Diamond Dial | Ref. 178279

Reference 178279 presents the Datejust 31 in solid 18 ct white gold — a step above Rolesor configurations in both material prestige and craftsmanship intensity. The fluted bezel, one of Rolex's most iconic design signatures since the 1940s, is here rendered entirely in white gold, its engine-turned grooves acting as prisms that scatter light across the room. Against this metallic brilliance, the silver dial with diamond hour markers achieves a luminous, coherent aesthetic that is simultaneously classic and jewel-like.

The 178279 is powered by Calibre 2235, the predecessor to the current 2236, a self-winding movement with a bidirectional Perpetual rotor and a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Regulated to Superlative Chronometer standards, it offers precision of ±2 seconds per day and incorporates Rolex's Parachrom hairspring for enhanced magnetic resistance. The 31 mm case is sealed to 100 metres water resistance, and the cyclops lens over the date window provides the trademark 2.5x magnification that makes the Datejust instantly recognisable.

The all-white-gold Datejust 31 occupies a rarefied position in the collection, appealing to collectors who prefer the cool, silvery refinement of white gold over the warmth of yellow or Everose. Reference 178279, with its fluted bezel and diamond dial, represents the intersection of Rolex's horological rigour and its jewellery-making heritage. On the secondary market, solid white gold Datejusts consistently command significant premiums over their Rolesor counterparts, reflecting both the higher material content and the relative scarcity of production.