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1990 Rolex Lady Datejust 69173 – Two-Tone Champagne Dial

Details

A Well Preserved Icon With Original Papers

The Lady Datejust 69173 is the definitive version of the most successful luxury watch ever made. By 1990, this reference had reached a point of perfect balance between the heritage of the fluted bezel and the practicality of a high-functioning automatic movement. This configuration is the cornerstone of the brand’s identity, utilizing the champagne dial and two tone finish that has remained relevant for over half a century. Having the original paperwork from 1990 provides a level of documentation that sets this example apart from the many undocumented watches typically found on the market.

The Most Recognized Silhouette In Watchmaking

This reference matters because it represents the era where Rolex perfected the daily luxury watch. While other models leaned into specific niches, the Datejust was designed to be the only watch a person ever needed. The combination of the stainless steel case and 18K yellow gold bezel offers a level of versatility that works across any dress code or setting. It's a watch rooted in the history of the first self-winding chronometer to feature a date window, yet it remains completely functional for a modern lifestyle.

Exceptional Bracelet Integrity And Documented History

The watch is in very good overall condition and is accompanied by its original warranty papers. The champagne dial is in perfect state without any visible degradation or spotting. One of the strongest points of this specific piece is the matching Jubilee bracelet, which shows no sag and retains its original structural feel. The case has seen some honest wear over the years and shows its age more than the dial, but it remains thick with correct proportions. Mechanically, the watch is running strong after passing our test bench.

The Ideal Professional Daily Driver

This is the straightforward choice for someone looking for a permanent daily driver that will never go out of style. It's built for constant use and transitions between environments without ever feeling out of place. Because it comes with the original papers and a remarkably tight bracelet, it offers a level of confidence that is difficult to find in vintage examples from this era.

Key Specs

Reference: 69173

Model: Lady-Datejust 26

Year: 1990 (E-Serial)

Movement: Automatic (Quickset)

Case Size: 26mm

Bezel: 18K YG Fluted

Bracelet: Two-Tone Jubilee 

Dial: Champagne

Wrist Size: 5.25–5.75in

Metal: Stainless Steel & Yellow Gold

Scope: Original Papers

SKU: 515

History

Everything the Datejust promised in 36mm, scaled to 26mm and refined for the wrist it was designed for. The Lady Datejust carries the same self-winding movement, the same date-at-midnight precision, and the same Jubilee or Oyster bracelet options — just proportioned for a smaller case that wears with the understated confidence of someone who knows what they're wearing.

Rolex produced the Lady Datejust in an exceptional range of combinations: yellow gold, white gold, two-tone steel and gold, with dials in champagne, silver, mother-of-pearl, onyx, and diamond-set configurations. The fluted bezel — a Rolex hallmark borrowed from its larger sibling — is especially elegant at 26mm, where the vertical grooves catch light differently than on any other watch in this size class.

References like the 6916, 69173, and 69174 span from the early 1970s through the 1990s and represent the full breadth of what Rolex achieved in the ladies' category: sport-elegant hybrids that function flawlessly as everyday wear while holding their own at any occasion. A great Lady Datejust ages beautifully, developing the kind of warm dial patina that no new watch can replicate.

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!