Technical Archive

Rolex
Datejust 36 116231-0085— lug 20mm

Rolex Datejust 36 116231-0085: 20mm strap. Alligator, box calf, shell cordovan and rubber, cut and stitched in Milano. Choose your leather.

Datejust 36 Rolesor Everose Fluted / Jubilee / Black Roman

Artisanal Note

"This model requires a precise 20mm lug width to preserve the original sartorial balance."

Technical Specifications

Rolex 116231-0085
Lug Width
20 mm

The essential strap measurement.

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Reference

116231-0085

Movement

Rolex caliber 3135 Hours, Minutes, Seconds | Chronometer

The Heritage

The Rolex Datejust 36 reference 116231-0085 combines 18-carat Everose gold and 904L Oystersteel in a bimetallic design. The 36mm Oyster case houses the automatic caliber 3135 movement with Chronometer certification, Perpetual rotor, and Paraflex shock absorption. The watch features a Cyclops-magnified date window and 100-meter water resistance. The 20mm lug width accommodates specific strap specifications.

FAQ

What is the lug width of the Rolex Datejust 36 116231-0085?

The Rolex Datejust 36, reference 116231-0085, features a <a href="/pages/termine-glossario/misura-ansa">lug width</a> of precisely 20 millimetres. This measurement is calculated as the internal distance between the two Oyster case lugs. Any compatible strap must respect this exact dimension, as the lugs are soldered to the case and house proprietary Rolex spring bars. A genuine 20mm strap is constructed from the ground up with this specific width, never cut down from a wider strap.

Which strap material is best suited for the Datejust 36 116231-0085?

The choice depends on usage and personal aesthetics. For the two-tone rose gold and steel configuration of your 116231-0085, alligator leather represents the pinnacle of luxury: the geometric scales harmonise with the lustre of the case, and moisture resistance is superior. If you prefer natural ageing, <a href="/pages/termine-glossario/concia-vegetale">vegetable-tanned leather</a> develops a captivating patina over time. For urban summer wear, waxed calf is versatile and durable. FKM rubber or NATO fabric offer practical sportiness.

How do you replace the strap on a Rolex Datejust 36?

The Datejust 36 employs proprietary Rolex spring bars. For replacement: position the watch on a soft cloth, locate the small oval hole on the rear of each lug, insert a fine-pointed tool (a professional spring bar removal tool), gently lift the outer spring bar, extract the old strap. Reverse the procedure with the new strap, ensuring the terminals fit perfectly into the case lugs. If inexperienced, consult a qualified watchmaker to avoid case scratching.

Is an aftermarket strap compatible with the Rolex Datejust 36 116231-0085?

Yes, but with precision requirements. Any strap with a <a href="/pages/termine-glossario/misura-ansa">20mm lug width</a> and straight standard spring bars is installable. However, aftermarket strap terminals may not adhere to the case with Rolex-original precision: the internal width of the passant must be calculated for your specific spring bars. Artisanal makers like Casati Milano construct straps with industrial tolerances matched to your hardware, guaranteeing perfect fit.

What is the lifespan of a natural leather strap on a Rolex Datejust 36?

Lifespan depends on material, usage, and climate conditions. A quality alligator strap may last 5–8 years with regular care (avoid prolonged immersion, dry after water contact). <a href="/pages/termine-glossario/concia-vegetale">Vegetable-tanned leather</a> ages more visibly but offers comparable longevity if maintained properly. Waxed calf resists 3–5 years under intensive daily use. <a href="/pages/termine-glossario/shell-cordovan">Shell cordovan</a>, though rare, can exceed 10 years. Casati Milano guarantees 18 months against manufacturing defects. Leather wear is natural and integral to the charm of artisanal accessories.

The next step

The right strap isn’t chosen. It is built, together.

From the atelier appointment to delivery, every step is made for those who know that things done well take time. Rare leathers, one piece at a time, eighteen months of warranty.

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The atelier's website: casatimilano.com