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Lot #1006

Rolex Yellow Gold Day-Date Green Stella Dial Ref. 1803

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Introduction

In the 1970's (years ahead of its time), Rolex introduced a range of colorful options to the Day-Date series in very limited quantities. Known as the "Stella Dials", they were named after the lacquer supplier that Rolex used for these dials. There are rumors that the colors were reflective of the flags of certain middle-eastern countries, but this has never been confirmed. Now extremely desired by collectors, the dials initially proved unpopular and many were changed out for ones in the more common champagne color.

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 they have been in realizing that very mission.


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Grade

V 9

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$30,000 – $40,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

36mm

Model

Day-Date

Movement

Self-Winding caliber 1556

Reference

1803

Bracelet

18k Yellow Gold

Year

1978

Condition

Excellent

Material

18k Yellow Gold

Included

Watch Only

Dial Color

Green Stella

THE DIAL

The fusion of faceted gold indexes, along with the rich green lacquer dial is an especially charming combination. Luminous dots are all intact and match the hands.

THE CASE

This Day-Date has a thick and full case, with only mild signs of surface wear. There is a pleasant level of oxidation to several areas of the case and bracelet.

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.

The Condition

The overall condition of the watch is fantastic. The green Stella dial has no crazing, marks or blemishes. Luminous dots are pristine and match the hands in tone. Case has light surface wear and some small scratches, as shown. Lugs are thick and appear to still have original factory finish. The bezel is still sharp and has light oxidation along the edge. Bracelet is tight and shows little to no stretch. The coronet on the clasp is also sharp and well defined.

Our Perspective

I have always had an affinity for Day-Dates, and amongst my favorites are the Stella dials. One cannot think of another watch in the Rolex lineup that is both whimsical and elegant simultaneously. A testament to their popularity was the surprise release of the colored Oyster Perpetual dials by Rolex last fall. This is an excellent opportunity to obtain an example that is in mint condition.

Eric Ku

Co-founder