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Lot #3515

Rolex Day-Date 1803 Green Stella Dial 18k YG

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Introduction

In the 1970's (years ahead of its time), Rolex introduced a range of colorful options to the Day-Date series in very limited quantities. Known as the "Stella Dials", they were named after the lacquer supplier that Rolex used for these dials. There are rumors that the colors were reflective of the flags of certain middle-eastern countries, but this has never been confirmed. Now extremely desired by collectors, the dials initially proved unpopular and many were changed out for ones in the more common champagne color. Offered here, we have one of the most sought after Stella dials, a beautiful bright green set in a gorgeous Day-Date ref. 1803.

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 construction, 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 style 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

$30,000 – $50,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

36mm

Model

Day-Date

Movement

Automatic cal. 1556

Reference

1803

Bracelet

18kt yellow gold President bracelet

Year

1978

Condition

Execllent

Material

18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Green (Stella dial)

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

The fusion of faceted gold indexes, along with the rich green lacquer dial is an especially charming combination on this green pie-pan Stella dial. Additionally, the luminous dots are all intact and match the hands.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

While its pie-pan green Stella dial is certainly the star of the show, this ref. 1803's well-preserved, subtlely oxidized 18kt yellow gold case, President bracelet, and fluted bezel all combine to top off its exceptional dial very nicely.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
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 excellent overall condition. Case shows minor wear and a warm patina has developed on the surface. The caseback has two minor pin shaped impressions on the surface, as visible in the images. The original green Stella dial is free from any hairline cracks or surface damage. All the luminous indexes are fully intact, but there is some discoloration on the surface of a couple of them. The bracelet has 23 links total, 6 of which are removable. It fits an 8" wrist and shows only minor stretch.

Our Perspective

I have always had an affinity for Day-Dates, and amongst my favorites are the Stella dials. One cannot think of another watch in the Rolex lineup that is both whimsical and elegant simultaneously. A testament to their popularity was the surprise release of the colored Oyster Perpetual dials by Rolex last fall.

Eric Ku

Co-founder