Introduction
A legend of the industry, the Day-Date has long been Rolex’s flagship timepiece. Released all the way back in 1956, the Day-Date quickly rose as the timepiece for world leaders and even earning the nickname “President,” or at least its bracelet did. Today, the Day-Date has retained its standing of luxury and exclusivity within the watch market and exists as the ultimate watch of prestige. As an important asset for Rolex to protect, the Day-Date has experienced many variations over the course of its history, much like the ref. 118138 that we have here. Released at Baselworld in 2013, the ref. 118138 was amongst several new references of the Day-Date. Each blending fresh dial options with precious metals these references stayed true to the Day-Date’s original size of 36mm, thus emphasising the importance of its classic aesthetics and breaking from the convention of constantly growing timepieces. Made of the most traditional Day-Date metal of all, 18kt yellow gold, this ref. 118138 features a gorgeous sunburst cognac-colour dial that combines with the lustre of its precious metal housing to provide a wonderfully luxurious monochromatic aesthetic. To further this, the ref. 118138 also sits on a matching cognac alligator leather strap, which is rather uncommon for Rolex, making it an even more refined option than it would have been on the Day-Date’s president bracelet.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Papers
Est. value range
$10,000 – $15,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Day-Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 3155
Reference
118138
Bracelet
Alligator leather strap
Year
2013
Condition
Near Mint
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch, box and papers
Dial Color
Cognac
THE DIAL
An interesting dial option, unlike anything Rolex had made before, the ref. 118138's cognac dial features an incredible sunburst effect that makes it a perfect match for the Day-Date'd 18kt yellow gold fluted bezel and case.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Measuring 36mm in diameter and sitting on a leather strap, the ref. 118138 is immediately more refined than its larger Day-Date siblings, making it wonderfully understated and a fantastic piece to wear.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in near-mint condition with very fine surface wear. There is some light tarnish on the case, predominantly on the 9 o'clock side. Casebook retains clear sticker and duty paid stamp from Brasil.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
Celebrating the Day-Date's refined design and its position as the ultimate in watchmaking luxury, the ref. 118138 does everything required of it even with its smaller case and leather strap.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
