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
Watch Only
Est. value range
$40,000 – $50,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Day-Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 3055
Reference
18078
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold Presidential bracelet
Year
1979
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Blue (Lapis lazuli stone)
THE DIAL
Featuring a natural stone Lapis Lazuli dial, this example's dial is unique to this watch and has an intensely deep-blue color that beautifully contrasts the yellow gold that it sits within.
THE TEXTURE
Boasting a rather unique texture across its bracelet and bezel, this example sports the so-called 'Bark Finish' that includes a finely fluted bezel that looks similar to Rolex's engine-turned bezels and a center link in its Presidential bracelet that features the same finely fluted texture, both of which are designed to emulate the texture of the bark of a tree.
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 excellent condition. The yellow gold case shows light surface scratches and marks, with some small nicks visible along the lug edges, while the upper lugs retain well-defined hallmarks and stamps on the rears. The so-called bark-finish bezel remains in excellent condition with strong definition. The hardstone lapis dial remains near mint, with no cracks or fissures, and the no-lume hands are very clean. It is fitted with a yellow gold President bracelet with concealed clasp showing light surface marks and moderate play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 23 links, 4 of which are removable, and fits approximately a 7½” wrist.
Our Perspective
Featuring the Day-Date's unusual bark finish, this example's aesthetic is certainly not like what we see on today's market. Combining its intense blue Lapis lazuli stone dial with its textured bezel and center link President bracelet, this example certainly doesn't shy away on the wrist.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
