How do I wind the Rolex Datejust 36?

Unscrew the winding crown to Position 1 and turn it clockwise at least 25 times. Afterwards, screw the crown back down against the case with light pressure.

How do I set the date and time?

Unscrew crown. For date setting, pull out to Position 2 and turn clockwise or counterclockwise. For time setting, pull out to Position 3 (seconds hand stops) and turn in either direction. Advance past 12 o'clock to verify a.m. or p.m. midnight date change. Always screw crown back down tightly when finished.

How do I adjust the bracelet length?

The bracelet features an internal link that can be pulled out or folded back on itself to adjust length by approximately 5 mm without using tools.

Is the Datejust 36 safe to use in water?

Yes, it is guaranteed waterproof to 100 metres (330 feet), provided the Twinlock crown is fully screwed down tight against the case.

Model index

Rolex · Watches

Rolex Datejust 36 Reference Guide: Specs, Winding & Care

Name: Rolex Datejust 36
Brand: Rolex

The Rolex Datejust 36 is a classic wristwatch featuring an Oyster case guaranteed waterproof to 100 metres (330 feet) and a signature date window at 3 o'clock. Suitable for both men and women, it is powered by a mechanical self-winding movement. This guide covers daily operation, crown positions, and routine care to ensure reliable timekeeping.

Manual for the Rolex Datejust 36

Specifications

Case Diameter: 36 mm
Case Dimensions (Ref. 126234): 12 mm thick, 43.3 mm lug-to-lug
Case Material: Corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel
Water Resistance: 100 metres / 330 feet (Oyster case with Twinlock double waterproofness system)
Movement: Mechanical automatic movement (e.g., Calibre 3235), Superlative Chronometer officially certified
Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours (for Calibre 3235)
Display Functions: Hour, minute, and seconds hands with date disc visible through window at 3 o'clock
Bracelet Adjustment: Exclusive design allowing extension/folding link adjustment by approximately 5 mm without tools

Common faults

Watch stopped or not running: Mechanical movements stop when mainspring power runs down. Perform an initial manual wind (minimum 25 clockwise turns in position 1). If the watch still stops unexpectedly while worn, dried lubrication or mechanical component wear requires professional servicing.
Timekeeping variance (gaining or losing time): Normal mechanical wear, friction, or aged movement lubricants over time can alter accuracy. This requires periodic complete service, component inspection, and re-lubrication by an authorized service center.
Dial or marker misalignment/defect: Infrequent factory dial issues (e.g., lines or marks across hour indicators) should be brought to an authorized dealer for inspection and component replacement.

Maintenance

Initial Manual Winding: Unscrew crown completely to Position 1. Turn clockwise a minimum of 25 turns to partially wind the movement. The watch then winds automatically as long as it is worn.
Securing Winding Crown: After every winding or setting operation, return crown to Position 1, apply light pressure, and carefully screw down clockwise against the case to ensure waterproofness.
Washing Case & Bracelet: Clean periodically using soapy water and a soft brush. Always verify that the winding crown is screwed down properly against the case prior to cleaning.
Periodic Complete Service: Periodically return the timepiece to be fully dismantled, movement lubricated to minimize friction, components checked for wear, and case/bracelet re-polished or satin-finished.

Questions people ask

How do I wind the Rolex Datejust 36?: Unscrew the winding crown to Position 1 and turn it clockwise at least 25 times. Afterwards, screw the crown back down against the case with light pressure.
How do I set the date and time?: Unscrew crown. For date setting, pull out to Position 2 and turn clockwise or counterclockwise. For time setting, pull out to Position 3 (seconds hand stops) and turn in either direction. Advance past 12 o'clock to verify a.m. or p.m. midnight date change. Always screw crown back down tightly when finished.
How do I adjust the bracelet length?: The bracelet features an internal link that can be pulled out or folded back on itself to adjust length by approximately 5 mm without using tools.
Is the Datejust 36 safe to use in water?: Yes, it is guaranteed waterproof to 100 metres (330 feet), provided the Twinlock crown is fully screwed down tight against the case.

Lifespan and value

Built to last indefinitely with proper care. Longevity depends on periodic movement servicing, maintaining fresh lubrication, avoiding excessive friction, and keeping the crown fully screwed down to prevent water entry.