Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1802 - Matte Black Dial

When the Day-Date was released in 1956, Rolex had made numerous attempts to capture the market with more complicated timepieces such as the Ref. 6036, the Ref. 8171, and the Ref. 6062, but it seemed like buyers were not particularly fond of complicated Rolexes. All of that changed when President Dwight D. Eisenhower was spotted wearing one Rolex in particular: a Day-Date. The model has since become known worldwide as ‘The President’ and as a symbol of success and prestige. Simply put, this one stuck.

The Day-Date was available for many years on a leather strap with a matching gold buckle, but also on a solid gold bracelet like the example that we have here.

The example that we have here is a very uncommon Reference 1802 dating to circa 1966. Rather than the prototypical 'fluted' gold bezel found on a vast majority of Day-Dates, this piece has a smooth bezel, which in unique to the Ref. 1802. The case remains in strong overall condition and presents beautifully, with nice symmetrical lugs and clear hallmarks and shows light signs of wear throughout. Typically reserved for Rolex's 'Professional' models, the dial inside is matte black in color, rather than a more usual sunburst or satin unit. It remains in very nice condition and features applied indices and fully-intact Tritium plots, which are complimented by a matching handset.

Last but not least, this piece comes fitted to a 'rivet' Oyster bracelet which, we think, pairs nicely with the smooth bezel and matte black dial. Think 'elevated' Explorer.