The Rolex Datejust is one of the most recognisable luxury watches ever produced, but certain dial variations transcend the standard collector landscape. This Datejust 26 Ref. 79174 with the elusive "Paddle Pop" Mother-of-Pearl dial represents one of Rolex's most distinctive and short-lived artistic dial executions—where natural nacre creates shifting hues of mint, pink, and white depending on light and angle. It embodies an era when Rolex experimented with some of its most beautiful and now highly collectible dial variations.
This is the highly sought-after Paddle Pop MOP dial, a rare configuration produced only between 1998 and 2003 before being discontinued permanently. Unlike conventional mother-of-pearl dials, this variation is prized for its unique iridescent colour play, revealing flashes of pastel mint, pink, silver, and white that make every dial visually unique. Paired with the 18K solid white gold fluted bezel, automatic movement, and classic Jubilee bracelet, it represents one of the most desirable ladies' Datejust combinations from the five-digit era. The discontinued 26mm case size further adds to its collectibility as Rolex has since moved away from these traditional proportions. Complete with its vintage box and tag, this is a configuration increasingly difficult to source, especially with strong dial condition.
Among vintage Datejust collectors, dial rarity often matters more than the reference itself—and the Paddle Pop MOP sits firmly within that category. Many collectors may encounter dozens of standard mother-of-pearl Datejusts before finding a genuine Paddle Pop example. The combination of a short production window, natural iridescence, and Rolex's decision to discontinue the dial entirely has made it one of the most charming hidden gems within the Datejust family. These are the watches that collectors remember long after they've seen countless standard configurations.
Product Info
Model: Rolex Datejust 26 Ref. 79174
Material: Stainless steel case & Jubilee bracelet with 18K solid white gold fluted bezel
Movement: Automatic
Dial: Rare "Paddle Pop" iridescent Mother-of-Pearl dial
Dial Characteristics: Flashes of mint, pink, white, and silver depending on light conditions
Reference: 79174
Size: 26mm (discontinued Rolex ladies size)
Bracelet: Steel Jubilee bracelet, fits up to approx. 17cm wrist
Condition: Excellent vintage condition
Set: Comes with vintage Rolex box & tag
Retail Status: Discontinued dial and discontinued case size
Collector Notes: Paddle Pop MOP dial produced only from 1998–2003 before discontinuation; highly sought-after Rolex dial variant
