The Rolex DateJust, a watch synonymous with timeless elegance and enduring quality, has undergone subtle design evolutions throughout its history. One such change, frequently debated among enthusiasts, concerns the finishing of its lugs – the small, curved extensions that connect the watch case to the bracelet. Many vintage DateJust models featured brushed lugs, a matte finish achieved through a process of abrasive brushing, while more modern iterations often sport polished lugs, reflecting light with a mirror-like sheen. This shift in finishing has sparked considerable discussion, with passionate arguments on both sides of the "to brush or to polish" dilemma. This article delves into the reasons behind the change, explores the preferences of collectors, and examines the controversies surrounding polishing a Rolex DateJust.
Much Prefer the Brushed Lugs:
The sentiment expressed by many collectors, "Much prefer the brushed lugs which were OEM on that year watch. Don't like to polish the lugs to make something look more modern or otherwise," encapsulates a core element of this debate. The preference for brushed lugs isn't merely aesthetic; it's deeply rooted in the preservation of the watch's original character and historical integrity. For these enthusiasts, the brushed finish represents authenticity, reflecting the manufacturing techniques and design choices of a specific era. Polishing, in their view, is an alteration that diminishes this historical value, transforming the watch into something it wasn't originally intended to be. The brushed finish, with its subtle texture and understated elegance, is seen as a hallmark of classic Rolex design. The perceived "modernization" through polishing is often rejected as an unnecessary and potentially damaging intervention. The subtle, less-reflective surface of brushed lugs is also appreciated by many for its less ostentatious appearance.
Polish the Top of the DateJust Lugs?
The question of whether to polish *only* the top of the DateJust lugs highlights the nuanced nature of this debate. While a complete polish might be considered undesirable by many, a partial polish, focusing solely on the top surfaces, is sometimes viewed as a less drastic alteration. This approach attempts to strike a balance between preserving the original brushed finish and enhancing certain aspects of the watch's visual appeal. However, even this partial polishing remains a controversial practice, with concerns that it can disrupt the overall harmony of the design and potentially lead to further modifications in the future. The consistency of the finish across the entire lug is a crucial element of the watch's visual balance, and altering this can detract from its overall aesthetic appeal.
When Did the DateJust Lose the Lug Hole?
The presence or absence of "lug holes" – small holes found on the lugs of some vintage DateJust models – is another aspect relevant to this discussion. These holes, often used for spring bar tools during strap changes, were a feature of earlier models. Their disappearance from later iterations reflects a broader shift in Rolex's design philosophy and manufacturing techniques. While not directly related to the brushed versus polished lug debate, the disappearance of lug holes represents another example of how Rolex has subtly altered the DateJust's design over time, often with the aim of streamlining production or enhancing water resistance. This evolution underscores the fact that the "original" DateJust is not a monolithic entity but a range of designs that have evolved over decades.
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