Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1803 - Merchant Marine Watch
STRAIGHT FACTS
When the Day-Date was released in 1956, it was the only complicated Rolex for sale. Hard to believe, but people didn’t want Rolex’s previous attempts at complicated wristwatches. All of that changed when President Dwight D. Eisenhower was spotted wearing the Rolex, and the watch became known as ‘The President’. An internationally known symbol of success and prestige, the Rolex Day-Date was available for many years on a strap or matching solid gold bracelet.
This present example has a few unique details to it, most notably the dial. For starters, it is a desirable ‘doorstop’ dial. Why do we call is a ‘doorstop’ dial? Glad you asked! The unique trapezoidal shape of the hour markers at 6 and 9 are shaped like the old-fashioned doorstops you might have seen in your school. While that might sound silly - just remember that watch collectors love nicknames!
Next, we turn our attention to the logo on the dial, as well as the caseback engraving. Printed at 6 in bright red is the Anchor logo of the Merchant Marines, and the caseback proudly states: "In Appreciation
B.J. McDermott 1954-1984". Clearly a gift for 30 years of service to the Merchant Marines.
Furthermore, the dial condition is outstanding featuring fully in-tact lume plots and perfectly matching handset. The outer track of this present example is in outstanding condition and has no signs of chipping or wear, and the watch is fitted to sword style luminous hands. Truly a special watch, if only it could talk!
*Some marks or spots on the dial are reflections or dust on the crystal and are due to high intensity strobe lighting used while photographing. They are not actually on the watch or visible in natural lighting.
Condition Report & Details
Condition:
Movement:
Bracelet/Strap:
Shipping, Returns, & Warranty
Every Oliver & Clarke timepiece comes with a one-year mechanical warranty starting from the date of delivery. We ensure all watches are in wonderful working condition and are ready for daily wear. Many have been fully serviced by our team of watchmakers.
Please note:
- Due to the vintage or antique nature of many of our watches, they may not keep time as accurately as when new, nor as precisely as quartz or electronic devices.
- We do not guarantee water resistance and do not warranty against moisture or water damage. Deliberate exposure to water or steam is not recommended.
Warranty Exclusions:
- Internal or external damage caused by accidents, mishandling, abuse, modifications, or services performed by anyone other than our authorized personnel.
- Our warranty is non-transferable.
The Oliver & Clarke Guarantee
At Oliver & Clarke, we meticulously vet each watch to ensure its authenticity and quality. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and our mission is to help you find the perfect timepiece. If you have any questions, we are here to assist you promptly.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
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