Rolex
Day Date, ref. 18038, circa 1979
The Rolex Day Date, also known as the "Rolex President", is the epitome of luxury watchmaking. This specific model, reference 18038, dates back to 1979. The watch is made entirely of 18-carat yellow gold, and has the distinctive feature of a pronounced patina on the case and bracelet, due to the oxidation of the yellow gold. Although not to everyone's taste, this is a rare feature that in this case attests to the fact that the watch has never been polished.
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/ Brand
02
/ Year
1979
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/ Serial
6043xxx
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/ Reference
18038
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/ Material
18k yellow gold
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/ Size
36mm
about the watch
The Rolex Day Date, also known as the "Rolex President", is a legendary and prestigious model in Rolex's rich history. Unlike the so-called "sports" models, the Rolex Day Date is a pure luxury product. Always produced in white, yellow or pink gold, it is perfectly suited to daily use, thanks in particular to its day and date functions, which are all too often neglected. The 18038, the first 5-digit reference, saw the introduction of the quickset for the date, providing a practical advantage without compromising the watch's vintage aesthetic.
With its heavy, warm presence on the wrist, this watch is more than just a gold watch. It represents an entire body of watchmaking expertise, and in particular the excellent use of precious materials for which Rolex, among others, is renowned.
A description of the Day Date would be incomplete without mentioning the feature that sets it apart from the rest: the emblematic President bracelet. The fact that a model is named after its bracelet speaks for itself.
This specific piece is entirely original and has never been polished, something particularly rare on a timepiece over 40 years old. This can also be seen on the case and bracelet, which have taken on a strong patina, having oxidized over the years, proving that the watch has certainly been sleeping in a safe all this time. It has an immaculate dial that has developed a charming patina on the indexes and hands. More than the watch's superb overall condition, the weight of the 18-carat gold makes it a pleasant object to wear every day.
As the watch has never been polished, the case has a lot of material and sharp edges. Of course, the buckle and bracelet are also in excellent condition.
The bracelet is the original President bracelet, reference 8385. It has no stretch.
The watch is sold alone, without box or papers. We provide a Veritas travelling pouch.
The movement is the original caliber 3055, which runs perfectly well.
Our watches are available for in-person viewing in Lausanne by appointment only. While we occasionally travel to meet clients in Geneva, Zurich, or Bern, Lausanne remains the most convenient meeting point. Unfortunately, viewings outside of Switzerland are not feasible. To make an appointment, you can click on "Purchase request".