Lot #4640
Rolex Day-Date 18048 Factory Diamond Bezel Blue Diamond Dial 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
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$10,000 – $15,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Day-Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 3055
Reference
18048
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold President bracelet
Year
1981
Condition
Very good
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Blue
THE DIAL
Featuring a diamond-set dial, this example's once-blue dial has aged to include a purple hue that gives it a rather unique aesthetic on the wrist.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Offered as a specific sub-reference of the 180XX generation of Day-Date, the ref. 18048 boasts a diamond-set bezel straight from the factory, in place of the fluted bezel that the Day-Date usually came with.
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 overall very good condition. The yellow gold case shows surface scratches and light nicks, while the hallmarks and stamps on the backs of the lugs remain legible. The white gold bezel shows nicks and scratches, though the diamond settings remain secure and the stones are in excellent condition. The dial shows surface marks and some degradation around the diamond-set hour markers and lume plots, while the no-lume hands show some discoloration but remain clean. Crystal has some light scratches or marks on the surface. It is fitted with a yellow gold President bracelet showing surface scratches, with wear visible to the coronet on the concealed clasp and moderate play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 23 links, 6 of which are removable, and fits approximately a 7¾” wrist. weight: 137.4g
Our Perspective
A wonderfully executed piece of Rolex design, this example's unique dial, abundance of diamonds, and 18kt yellow gold construction combine to create a luxurious aesthetic that speaks to Rolex's exclusivity and exuberance.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
