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Lot #1367

Rolex Day-Date 18038 with Papers Like New

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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 9.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch and Papers

Est. value range

$10,000 – $15,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

36mm

Model

Day-Date

Movement

Self-Winding cal. 3055

Reference

18038

Bracelet

18k Yellow Gold Presidential bracelet

Year

1988

Condition

Excellent

Material

18k Yellow Gold

Included

Watch and Papers

Dial Color

Champagne

THE DIAL

Pairing yellow gold hands with yellow gold indices on a champagne dial, the resulting aesthetic of this ref. 18038 is that of pure monochromatic excellence.

THE CONSTRUCTION

Utterly classical in its design, the Day-Date's 18k yellow gold construction is iconic with its Presidential bracelet, fluted bezel and signature dial arrangement.

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

In excellent overall condition. There is some minor spotting to the dial but this is minor. The case is in super condition with nice lines, proportions and a light tarnish throughout which is easily cleaned. The case back still retaining its sticker. The bracelet is also in great condition, light tarnishing and very minor surface wear, with 24 links, 5 removable. The watch still retaining original papers.

Our Perspective

We love this 18038 for its vintage looks, and also appreciate its refinements over its predecessor, the 1803. With a similarly classic look but updated sapphire crystal and single-quickset movement, it is definitely much easier to set the time and enjoy.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder