Strap for Datejust 31 Rose Gold / Domed / Chocolate - Diamond / President

The Rolex Datejust 31 ref. 278245-0016 has a lug width of 16mm. This measurement is taken with a digital calliper placed inside the lugs, in contact with the parallel inner surfaces, close to the spring bar slot. This figure should not be confused with other Datejust diameters: the 28mm variant uses 13mm lugs, while the 36mm uses 19–20mm lugs.

For an Everose Gold case, the most coherent materials are vegetable-tanned alligator leather — which develops a personal patina over time and complements the polished surfaces of the rose gold — and shell cordovan, with its dense grain and near-mirror finish. Box-calf leather is the ideal choice for intensive daily use. A rose gold deployant clasp completes the pairing with consistent metallic tone.

To replace the strap on a Datejust 31, a fine-tipped spring bar tool — preferably with a forked tip — is required to remove the 16mm spring bars housed within the lugs. It is advisable to work on a soft surface to avoid scratching the rose gold case. If you are inexperienced with strap changes, it is best to entrust the work to a watchmaker or specialist atelier to prevent damage to the lugs or case.

Yes. Any strap with a 16mm attachment and standard spring bars is technically compatible with the Rolex Datejust 31 ref. 278245-0016. Milanostraps.it offers a curated range of handcrafted 16mm compatible straps, available either bespoke or ready to ship. For a rose gold watch, materials of equivalent quality are recommended: alligator, cordovan or premium calfskin with a rose gold buckle or deployant clasp.

The lifespan of a leather strap depends on the quality of the hide, frequency of wear, and exposure to perspiration and moisture. A high-quality vegetable-tanned alligator strap, worn on rotation, can last three to five years while retaining structural and aesthetic integrity. Cordovan tends to last longer due to the density of its fibre. Avoiding prolonged contact with water and storing the strap in a dry environment when not in use significantly extends the life of the piece.