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 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, box, and service paperwork
Est. value range
$12,000 – $18,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Day-Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 1556
Reference
1803
Bracelet
18kt white gold Presidential bracelet
Year
1969
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt white gold
Included
Watch, box, and service paperwork
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Sitting atop its stunning silver pie-pan dial, this example boasts a distinctive set of the so-called "doorstop" hour markers, due to their slope, at 6 and 9 o'clock that add a unique visual twist to its monochromatic display.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Retaining all of the Day-Date's signature features, such as its fluted bezel, Presidential bracelet, and iconic 36mm case, but in 18kt white gold, the ref. 1803 is a toned-down version of its yellow gold siblings but with the Day-Date's confident personality in abundance.
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
case size: 36mm
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The white gold case shows surface marks and scratches as expected of a watch of this vintage. The case back has light scuffs, while the fluted bezel shows gentle wear. The backs of the lugs retain well-defined hallmarks and stamps. The pie-pan dial remains excellent, with discoloration visible to some of the lume plots, while the hands remain very clean. It is fitted with a white gold President bracelet with non-concealed clasp showing surface scratches and moderate play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 19 links and fits approximately a 7¼” wrist. Comes complete with inner and outer boxes, document holder, 2008 Rolex Japan service papers with associated paperwork, booklet, and cloth.
Our Perspective
This ref. 1803 exemplifies the understated elegance that Rolex is known for. I've always preferred white gold Day-Dates' over yellow gold examples, and this one is particularly pleasing with its "doorstop" pie-pan dial and pleasing patina throughout.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
