Technical Archive

Rolex
Datejust 36 116234-0135— lug 20mm

Rolex Datejust 36 116234-0135: 20mm strap. Alligator, box calf, shell cordovan and rubber, cut and stitched in Milano. Choose your leather.

Datejust 36 Stainless Steel Fluted / Oyster / Silver Computer

Artisanal Note

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

Technical Specifications

Rolex 116234-0135
Lug Width
20 mm

The essential strap measurement.

Browse 20mm straps →
Reference

116234-0135

Movement

Rolex caliber 3135 Hours, Minutes, Seconds | Chronometer

The Heritage

The Rolex Datejust 36 ref. 116234-0135 is a stainless steel and white gold two-tone watch with a 36mm case and 20mm lug width. Presented in 1945, the Datejust was the first wristwatch with a date window. The champagne dial features Baton indices, and the watch is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3135 movement with COSC certification and approximately 42 hours of power reserve. Water resistant to 100 meters.

FAQ

What is the lug width of the Rolex Datejust 36 116234-0135?

The Rolex Datejust 36 reference 116234-0135 features a 20mm lug width. This measurement is taken from the outer edges of the first lug to the outer edges of the second lug. This is the critical specification for compatibility with any aftermarket strap. The measurement must exclude the crown and the case shoulder.

Which strap is most suitable for the Datejust 36 116234-0135?

The most suitable strap depends on intended use. Alligator leather with vegetable tanning is the classical choice for formal occasions, developing a natural patina over time. Smooth calf offers daily versatility with light reflection that complements the two-tone case. Shell cordovan, for the discerning collector, delivers superior natural luminosity. Rubber with deployant clasp provides ergonomic comfort for intensive wear whilst maintaining aesthetic integrity.

How do you change the strap on a Datejust 36 116234-0135?

The strap on the 116234-0135 is changed using a spring bar removal tool. Position the watch with the lugs visible, insert the tool into the slot at the base of the lug and apply lateral pressure to compress the internal spring. Once released, the spring bar slides out. Install the new strap by reversing the procedure: align the strap holes with the lug axes and press the spring bar until it clicks into place. We recommend professional atelier installation to prevent case damage.

Is an aftermarket strap truly compatible with the 116234-0135?

Yes, provided the lug width is precisely 20mm. Compatibility is determined solely by this dimension: the strap lugs must align flawlessly. However, the quality of tanning and material nobility varies substantially between suppliers. An aftermarket strap crafted in alligator or shell cordovan with artisanal construction guarantees superior patina development and wear resistance compared to standard industrial production.

How long does a leather strap last on a Datejust 36 like the 116234-0135?

Durability depends on tanning method, usage intensity and maintenance. An alligator strap with vegetable tanning typically lasts 4-6 years with daily wear, evolving into desirable patina. Smooth calf has an average lifespan of 3-4 years before visible stress appears. Shell cordovan, due to its robust natural fibre, easily reaches 6-8 years. Rubber with steel deployant typically lasts 5-7 years before material degradation begins. Regular maintenance—gentle cleaning, protection from excessive humidity and prolonged sun exposure—significantly extends these periods.

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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