Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1803/9 - Satin Grey Dial Unpolished W/ Box & Papers
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 matching solid gold bracelet (called a 'President' bracelet), but also on a leather strap like the example that we have here.
The piece that we have here, a Reference 1803 from circa 1972, is quite simply one of the finest 4-digit Day-Dates that we have ever come across. The case, bracelet, and bezel are all unpolished and beautifully preserved, showing only light signs of wear throughout. Inside, the grey dial remains in immaculate, seemingly flawless condition, with a clean satin surface and fully-intact Tritium plots, which exhibit an attractive and even patina throughout with a matching handset. It also has a very uncommon French day disk. The white gold 'President' bracelet features a 'hidden' deployant clasp, which remains stiff as a result of light use.
Last but not least, accompanying this piece is an exceptional set. It includes its outer box, inner grey 'elephant' leather box, green vinyl folder, calendar card, french booklets, and punched papers from Rolex dated 3/21/1974.
This 1803 on its own is nothing short of exceptional. Factory in the completeness of its set with the matching French day and booklets, and you've got something truly exquisite.
Condition Report & Details
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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.
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- Internal or external damage caused by accidents, mishandling, abuse, modifications, or services performed by anyone other than our authorized personnel.
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