Lot #3012
Rolex Day-Date 18238 Black Diamond String Baguette Index 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 construction, 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 style and inescapable impact on horology, the Day-Date stands as a vivid reminder of just how successful Rolex has been in realizing that very mission.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 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. 3155
Reference
18238
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold Presidential bracelet
Year
1999
Condition
Very Good
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Featuring a stunning diamond string dial, this Day-Date features a string of diamonds that encircle its baguette diamond-set hour markers. Black with gold inscriptions, hands and diamond settings, this gorgeous dial is wonderfully luxurious, just as you might expect for the Day-Date.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Not to be overshadowed by its dial, this example also features Rolex's signature fluted bezel and President bracelet to complete its luxurious and jewel-like aesthetic.
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 very good overall condition. The case shows moderate signs of wear, with scratches and light marks visible along the case. The bezel is worn, with some loss of definition in the teeth. Original black string dial with baguette indexes in near-mint condition. The luminous plots are lightly aged and all intact. The dial is signed "T Swiss T" which dates it to 1980's to early 1990's production, so it was likely fitted by request of the previous owner. The bracelet has 22 links total, 4 of which are removable and it fits a 7" wrist. Bracelet shows some moderate stretch and surface wear, with some loss of definition on the crown clasp, as well as visible pin marks on the sides of some of the links.
Our Perspective
Amongst the most luxurious watches on the market, the Day-Date has long been Rolex's flagship timepiece, with rare diamond-set variants like this ref. 18238 standing proud as the most highly coveted of all.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
