THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 18038
YEAR: 1985
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 36mm
CASE MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The Day-Date is Rolex’s flagship model, and arguably a rival to the Submariner for their most iconic. Worn by Movie stars, Royalty and Heads of State, the design has stood the test of time. The present example is the second execution of the model, the 18038. It features an updated Calibre 3055 movement, making it the first-ever Day-Date to have a quick-set date function. This small yet significant upgrade allows the watch to be adjusted much more easily when it is being worn sparingly amongst a collection. 

In the world of vintage Day-Date collecting, condition is paramount. Unlike sports models such as the Submariner, signs of polishing are much more noticeable on Day-Dates due to their slimmer profile, more refined details, and the use of precious metal. Moreover, the iconic President bracelet can stretch over time which severely impacts the wearability of the watch. 

The present example dates back to 1985 and remains in great condition. The watch has been worn sparingly during its lifetime but remains strong. It looks especially sharp after a recent light polishing. Importantly, the original bracelet has minimal stretch after nearly 40 years. The star of the show, however, must be the rare sunburst blue dial. It plays with light beautifully and adds a stunning contrast to the old gold look. The original date and day wheels also gained a creamy patina, perfectly complementing the watch. All of the tritium lume is intact. There is some oxidation on the hour markers. 

To complete the package, the watch comes with its original inner and outer boxes, leather notebook, wallet, calendar, tags, handkerchief, original guarantee papers, and all of the service papers. The watch has freshly been checked over and is running strong at -3 s/d, 285 amps, with a 0.1 ms beat error. An absolutely stunning Day Date that we are proud to present.