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
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Guarantee Booklet
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Day-Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 1555
Reference
1803
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
1972
Condition
Very good
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch and papers
Dial Color
Brown
THE DIAL
Featuring an intensely desirable brown "capuccino" pie-pan dial with golden-aged day and date wheels along with well-aged lume that blends into its 18k yellow gold construction and handset, this example's dial is truly stunning. Featuring hands and hour markers that are extra-wide, this timepiece's defining feature marks it as the rare "Wide Boy" configuration.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Offered on a leather strap and sitting at a comfortable 36mm in diameter, this Day-Date ref. 1803 is as classically styled as a watch will ever get with its 18kt yellow gold construction, fluted bezel and iconic dial layout all ensuring it will stand the test of time just like it has the last 50 years.
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 very good condition. The yellow gold case shows scratches and nicks, as expected for a watch of this vintage. The brushed finish on the front of the case has worn down to a polished surface over time. The hallmarks on the backs of the lugs remain legible, and there are rub marks from previous bracelet fitment. There is visible damage to the spring bar holes on the right side of the case, which can be seen from the back. The taupe so-called “Wide-Boy” dial is excellent, and the hands are reasonably clean. It is fitted with a brown leather strap and a gold-plated buckle. The watch is accompanied by its original punched warranty booklet.
Our Perspective
Exclusive to Day-Date models from the early to mid-70s, the Wide Boy dial variants form one of Rolex collecting's classic idiosyncrasies, whereby a seemingly small feature can have a massive impact on the rarity, collectibility, and desirability of a watch.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
