Rolex Cellini Date (photo: Rolex)

Close Up of Rolex Datejust (photo: Rolex)

If you want a watch that looks like a Rolex, but can still work in formalwear, I would suggest either a Datejust or Day-Date. The Datejust comes in a variety of sizes and configurations, like the yellow gold and stainless steel DJ shown above. This classic Rolex model has changed little over the years, with a smooth or fluted bezel and iconic Cyclops magnifying lens over a simple dial. The Datejust 41 shown above is available with the champagne dial in the photo and the option of diamond hour markers. This model is also available with a 36 millimeter case for those who find a 41 millimeter case excessive. Most come with a combination of stainless steel and white, yellow or pink gold on either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet.

Platinum Rolex Day-Date (photo: Rolex)

Known as the President's watch, the Day-Date, shown above in platinum with an ice blue dial, walks the line between a classic dress watch and a modern masterpiece. The aperture at 12 o'clock for the day is instantly recognizable and very legible and the motif on the dial adds an artistic touch to an otherwise simple and elegant watch. After decades on the market, it is still the watch of choice for many of the most influential people in the world. If you are on the market for a precious metal configuration from Rolex and prefer a clean aesthetic, this is the watch for you. The platinum and rose gold versions have a fresh and modern look, while the yellow gold still harkens back to the golden age of Rolex watches.

If your career or your social life calls for formal attire, it is always a good idea to have a dress watch to go with your suit. The Datejust and Day-Date models also come in leather strap configurations, giving you even more formal options. Check out my previous post about the best Rolex to wear with a suit here for more information on dress watches. And as always, you can visit rolex.com to check out their entire line of wristwatches and authorized dealers.

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While there are many differing opinions about what type of watch looks best with a suit, there are some characteristics that make some wristwatch models more appropriate to wear in formal settings than others. I have put together a few guidelines for anyone who is interested in finding the best Rolex to wear with a suit. 

Best Rolex to Wear with a Suit (photo: Olu Eletu)

Case Size
While wrist sizes vary and oversized watches are very popular these days, not all case sizes work with a suit. A Deepsea, for example, may feel fine on a 7.5 inch wrist, but the height of the 44 mm case will likely cause the watch to get caught with the cuff of the shirt creating, unsightly wrinkles. A case size of 40 mm or smaller would be more appropriate. Most watches in that range will allow the cuff of the shirt and the suit to sit perfectly on the wrist.

Color
Generally speaking, the color of your watch should match your cuff links, belt buckle and any hardware on your belt and shoes. So, if you tend to choose belts, shoes and links in yellow gold, it would make sense to go with a yellow gold dress watch. Also, the bezel and dial color should compliment the color of the suit. Rolex offers many interesting color combinations on their wristwatch models. While a green bezel or dial may look great with everyday casual wear, it may clash with a blue suit. If you want a watch that will be able to transition from day to night, you may want to consider a black bezel and a neutral dial color.

Style 
Perhaps the most widely debated issue regarding wearing a Rolex with a suit is whether or not their professional models are appropriate to wear in formal settings. Many feel that a dive watch like a Submariner is inappropriate to wear to a formal affair. Others feel that it is totally fine as long as it matches with the suit and cuff links. Ultimately, it is up to the individual based on their personal aesthetic. However, if you attend formal events regularly and have not decided on a Rolex model yet, I would take a look at their Cellini line.

Rolex Cellini Date (photo: Rolex)

With the hype that surrounds models from their professional line, like the BLNR and Daytona, Rolex's Cellini line is often overlooked. However, it is the ideal dress watch. Most men's style blogs, like the Gentleman's Gazette, recommend the Cellini model for formal events due to its simple dial, leather band and low profile. To browse all of the current Cellini models, visit rolex.com.

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The Cellini Time is a uniquely elegant Rolex model that diverges from their Oyster Perpetual line. It does not feature their signature Oyster case, which makes it an outlier in terms of design. The Cellini models receive far less attention and adulation in forums and blogs than other Rolexes, but they offer an important option for those who are looking for a simple yet sophisticated dress watch.