The year 1997. Think dial-up internet, Tamagotchis, and the Spice Girls dominating the airwaves. In the world of horology, Rolex continued its reign of excellence, crafting timepieces that would become coveted classics. Among them was a particularly elegant example: the Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date, a watch that perfectly encapsulates the understated sophistication of the era. This article delves into the specifics of a 1997 model, reference number W3176, model 67180, and serial number U15* (the last four digits are omitted for security reasons), currently available for sale, highlighting its features, condition, and value within the broader context of the ladies' Rolex market.
This particular watch, boasting a condition rated as "9 - Excellent," represents a significant opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its age, dating back to December 27th, 1997, adds to its allure, placing it firmly within a desirable vintage bracket. The reference number W3176 and model number 67180 pinpoint its specific specifications within the Rolex catalogue, allowing for precise identification and verification of authenticity. The serial number, while partially obscured for security reasons, serves as a further identifier, allowing for cross-referencing with Rolex records (though access to these records is usually restricted to authorized dealers).
Understanding the Model: Navigating the Ladies' Rolex Landscape
Before diving deeper into the specifics of this 1997 piece, it's crucial to understand its place within the larger family of ladies' Rolex watches. The terms often used interchangeably – "ladies Rolex Datejust 26mm," "Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust femme," "Oyster Perpetual lady Datejust 26," "pre-owned oyster lady date," "Rolex lady Datejust two-tone," "26mm Rolex lady Oyster Perpetual," and "Rolex Datejust Oyster Perpetual women" – can be confusing. Let's clarify the distinctions:
* Oyster Perpetual: This is the foundational name for Rolex's iconic line of self-winding watches, characterized by their robust Oyster case, ensuring water resistance and protection. The "Perpetual" refers to the self-winding movement.
* Datejust: This is a specific model within the Oyster Perpetual family, distinguished by its date window at 3 o'clock. The Datejust line typically features a fluted bezel (though variations exist), and often comes in various sizes and metal combinations.
* "Femme" or "Lady": These terms simply denote watches designed for women, usually characterized by smaller case sizes. A "ladies Rolex Datejust 26mm," for instance, refers to a Datejust model with a 26mm case diameter.
* Two-Tone: This refers to watches with a combination of metals, typically yellow gold and stainless steel.
Our 1997 Oyster Perpetual Date, while sharing features with the Datejust line (namely the date function), isn't explicitly labeled as a Datejust. This subtle distinction highlights the complexity and nuance within Rolex's product line. It falls under the broader Oyster Perpetual umbrella but possesses the date complication, making it a highly desirable model. The 26mm size further cements its place within the ladies’ collection.
current url:https://cjxojx.d857y.com/products/ladies-rolex-oyster-perpetual-with-date-1997-53751