THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 19018
YEAR: 1985
BOX/PAPERS: NO/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, however, is not your typical 36mm Day-Date with a president bracelet. The ref. 19018, Oysterquartz Day-Date, boasts an integrated 18K bracelet design and is arguably the most unique model in the history of the Day-Date lineup. 

The Oysterquartz Day-Date was first introduced in 1977, as Rolex's response to the quartz crisis along with the other top swiss watch manufacturers. Although remaining in the Rolex line-up until around 2003, they were made in significantly lower numbers than their automatic counterparts, partly due to the fact that they actually cost more new (£7575 exactly in 1985)... 

The Genta-esque integrated bracelet design remains a unicorn in the history of Rolex. We know that in the world of vintage Day-Date collecting, condition is paramount. This is even more true for Oysterquartz Day-Dates due to their sharp bezels, polished centre links, and angular design. 

Fortunately, the present example, dating back to 1985, has had a very easy life. The case remains in near perfect condition, even displaying some oxidisation on the top of the case, proving the watches sedentary life. The black baton dial is perfect, with all of the lume intact and no marks. The full link bracelet that will fit a 19cm wrist is in equally perfect condition, and has no perceivable stretch. 

The watch comes with its original papers and has just had a check by our watchmaker and a new battery installed.