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
$15,000 – $30,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Day-Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 3135
Reference
18238
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold bracelet
Year
1991
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black Onyx Diamond Dial
THE DIAL
Fitted with a stunning jet-black Onyx stone dial that sports gold hands, inscriptions and borders for its date and day apertures to complement its gold construction, this Day-Date radiates an aura of pure luxury and refinement. However, not content with that, this example is one of the very rare stone dial variants with diamond-set hour markers.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The signature hallmarks of Rolex's luxurious design, this ref. 18238 features a fluted 18k gold bezel and presidential bracelet, which combine to ensure the Day-Date sits on the wrist with a much-deserved sense of luxury.
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 in near-mint condition, with sharp edges and just light marks from wear. The case back retains its original sticker, though the detail has worn off. The bezel is crisp with light surface marks. The onyx hardstone dial shows some delamination visible primarily on the right half of the dial. The diamond-set hour markers and no-lume hands are very clean. The bracelet is near mint, with light marks, a very crisp coronet on the concealed clasp, and light play between the links. The bracelet currently fits a 7” wrist, and is fitted with 22 links, 3 of which are removable.
Our Perspective
A stunningly beautiful watch whose iconic design is only highlighted by its strikingly dark dial, the Day-Date we have here perfectly blends the depth of its pitch-black onyx stone with the extravagance of an 18kt yellow gold construction and pinball-like diamond-set hour markers.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
