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Lot #3803

Rolex Day-Date 18038 Engraved Diamond Dial Ruby Indexes Arabic Date Wheels 18k YG

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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

Box and Service Guarantee Dated 2022

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 Presidential bracelet

Year

1979

Condition

Excellent

Material

18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch, box, and Service Guarantee Dated 2022

Dial Color

Silver (Pave-set diamonds)

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Boasting a truly stunning diamond pave dial with baguette sapphire markers at 6 and 9 o'clock and brilliant cuts used for the other hours, this example represents the truly luxurious world within horology. Another peculiarity about this configuration is that this example's day and date wheels are in Arabic, giving the watch an even rarer display than what it already has.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

While featuring the Day-Date's iconic design details like its fluted bezel and Presidential bracelet, this Day-Date brings an appealing twist to its aesthetic through the unique patination that has developed across its surfaces, its luxurious diamond and ruby-set pave dial, and Arabic day and date wheels.

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

The watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case is well defined, with symmetrical lugs and a pleasing patina across the gold surfaces. The bezel is generally well-defined, with some gentle wear in places. The case back is crisp and has the model number sticker still intact. All hallmarks are legible. The diamond and ruby set dial is in pristine condition, and the no-lume hands are very clean. The hidden-clasp yellow gold President bracelet is in excellent condition with light play between the links. The bracelet currently fits a 6 3/4" wrist and has 19 links, 2 of which are removable. Comes with inner and outer boxes and a Rolex service receipt from 2022.

Our Perspective

An iconic watch in its own right, the Day-Date is a timepiece that collectors have held dear for decades. We love the unique configuration of this example, with its luxurious pave diamond and ruby dial and rare Arabic day and date wheels that give the watch a decidedly exotic twist.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder