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
$6,000 – $8,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Day-Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 1555
Reference
1803
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
1976
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
Named after famed New York-based vintage watch dealer John Buckley and owner of Tuscany Rose, the so-called Buckley dial is identified by its elegantly-painted Roman numerals.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Offered on a leather strap instead of the Day-Date's typical Presidential bracelet, this ref. 1803 features a dressier aesthetic than we normally ascribe to the Day-Date collection.
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. The case is thick and shows only minor signs of surface wear, with a warm patina that has started to develop. Bezel teeth are generally sharp with minimal loss of definition and no major dings or scratches. Hallmnarks on back of lugs are crisp and legible. The original white "Buckley" dial in excellent overall condition with nicely aged luminous dots and similarly toned luminous on the hands. Watch comes with a generic strap and plated buckle.
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
Combining the elegant aesthetic of its leather strap and the unique appeal of its painted Roman numerals, this ref. 1803 is as close to a dress watch as the Day-Date can get.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
