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
Box, Papers, Rolex Factory Service Paperwork
Est. value range
$10,000 – $15,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Day-Date
Movement
Automatic cal. 3055
Reference
18038
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold President bracelet
Year
1982
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch, box, papers, two sets of service papers (2006 and 2009) and Rolex watch pouch
Dial Color
Birch wood or "Burl" (Brown)
THE DIAL
Fashioned from a polished piece of birch wood, this ref. 18038's dial sports a swirling pattern thanks to a naturally occurring deformity that impacted its growth, known as a burl. This pattern makes for a wonderfully unique and luxurious backdrop for the ref. 18038's handset and indices and makes each example unique.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Utterly classical in its design, the Day-Date's 18k yellow gold construction is iconic with its Presidential bracelet and fluted bezel. However, this example's
pièce de résistance is its burl dial, which provides it with a unique aesthetic that no other Day-Date dial can achieve.
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 excellent overall condition. Case has some wear on the lugs and bezel, which is has slightly worn teeth with some small nicks and scratches. The dial is in near-mint condition showing no visible damage. The bracelet has 22 links, 3 ref which are removable. There is light stretch.
Our Perspective
Offered with an extensive service record and an utterly stunning birch dial this example's utterly unique aesthetic sets it apart from a normal watch, which has been the essence of the Day-Date since its launch in 1956.
Sam Hines
Managing Director
