Introduction
A legendary timepiece with an unrivaled history, the Rolex Day-Date has earned its place as "The Ultimate Watch of Prestige" from its decades on the wrists of the world's most influential people. Released in 1956, the Day-Date quickly became synonymous with luxury, prestige, and exclusivity thanks to being the watch of choice for the world's athletes, visionaries, and world leaders alike. Only ever constructed of precious metals, the Day-Date's aesthetic is that of sheer elegance and grace. Aside from the beautiful array of dial options that have been available over the decades, the Day-Date's most iconic piece of design is its three-piece "Presidential" or "President" bracelet. Forming the bedrock of its design, the Presidential bracelet has become synonymous with Rolex's flagship collection and their desire to create the very best and most iconic watches that the world has ever seen. With its timeless design and inescapable impact on horology, the Day-Date stands as a vivid reminder of just how successful they have been in realizing that very mission.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$10,000 – $15,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Day-Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 1555
Reference
1803
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold Presidential bracelet
Year
1976
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Blue
THE DIAL
Providing a colorful aesthetic to the entire timepiece, this example's blue pie-pan "Buckley" dial stands out against the ref. 1803's 18k yellow gold construction and handset for a bright effect.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring all of the Day-Date's most iconic design elements such as its fluted bezel, Presidential bracelet, and 36mm case - all in its signature 18kt yellow gold, this ref. 1803 is a vintage delight.
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
The watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case is excellent, with well-defined symmetrical lugs and some surface scratches, commensurate with a watch of this vintage. The hallmarks are all fully legible. The bezel is well defined. The blue so-called Buckley dial is in excellent condition, with a small amount of crazing around the lume plots and some light degradation around the dial edge. The yellow gold hands have some light patina but remain very clean. The yellow gold President bracelet has a concealed clasp, with some surface marks and moderate play between the links. The bracelet currently fits a 7 1/4” wrist and has 21 links, 4 of which are removable.
Our Perspective
Retaining the essence of vintage Rolex, the ref. 1803 is filled with character and appeal that has since been lost in modern Day-Dates, with its plexi crystal and pie-pan Buckley dial.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
