Rolex Datejust 31 Yellow Rolesor — Fluted Bezel, Black Index Dial | Ref. 178273

Yellow Rolesor — the combination of Oystersteel and 18-carat yellow gold that Rolex pioneered and trademarked — is one of the most enduring aesthetic concepts in watchmaking, and the Datejust 31 reference 178273 deploys it to crisp, timeless effect. The 31 mm Oyster case unites the cool durability of Oystersteel on its flanks with warm yellow gold at the crown, bezel, and bracelet centrelinks, creating a bicolour composition that has retained its appeal through successive decades of changing taste.

The classically fluted bezel in 18-carat yellow gold brings both decorative purpose and structural rigidity, its 44 grooves catching and refracting light with every movement of the wrist. Against this gilded surround, the black dial provides maximum visual contrast: applied yellow gold index hour markers stand out with clarity against the dark ground, and Chromalight luminous material within the markers and hands ensures legibility in low-light conditions. The Cyclops lens over the date aperture at 3 o'clock continues the Datejust's tradition of effortless functional clarity.

The 178xxx reference houses Calibre 2235 — a self-winding movement built to manufacture specification and certified as a chronometer by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres. A bidirectional Perpetual rotor charges the mainspring with near-continuous efficiency, while the Parachrom hairspring provides resilience against magnetic interference and mechanical shock. The two-row Oystersteel and yellow gold Oyster bracelet, secured by a concealed Oysterclasp, completes a watch that remains one of the most balanced expressions of Rolesor dressing in the modern catalogue.