Lot #4265
Rolex Day-Date 18038 Blue Vignette Diamond Dial 18k YG with Guarantee
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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
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Guarantee Certificate
Est. value range
$15,000 – $25,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Day-Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 3055
Reference
18038
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold bracelet
Year
1986
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch and papers
Dial Color
Blue

THE DIAL
Sporting a truly stunning vignette finish, this example's dial transitions from a light sapphire blue at its core to near-black navy along its periphery. Contrasting this dark rim of the dial, this example also swaps the Day-Date's traditional gold hour markers with brilliant-cut and baguette-cut diamond hour markers for a flourish of luxury and beauty.

THE CONSTRUCTION
This ref. 18038's 18kt yellow gold construction is entirely classical in its design with the Day-Date's traditional 36mm case, iconic Presidential bracelet and wonderful fluted bezel.

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 shows light marks and scuffs, along with signs of a previous polish. The hallmarks on the backs of the lugs remain legible, and the fluted bezel is well defined. The dial and hands are near-mint. The yellow gold bracelet shows moderate stretch between the links, and the coronet on the concealed clasp has lost some definition. The bracelet has 21 links, 4 of which are removable, and fits an approximately 7” wrist. The watch is accompanied by its original punched papers.
Our Perspective
A wonderfully executed piece of Rolex design, this example's vignette dial, abundance of diamonds, and 18kt yellow gold construction combine to create a luxurious aesthetic that speaks to Rolex's exclusivity and exuberance.

















