Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 - Blue 'Roman' Dial With Papers
When the Day-Date was released in 1956, it was the only complicated Rolex for sale. Hard to believe, but after numerous References and attempts to capture the market with more complicated timepieces, it seemed like buyers were not particularly fond of Rolex’s previous attempts at complicated wristwatches. 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.
The Day-Date was available for many years on a leather strap with a matching gold buckle, but also on a solid gold bracelet (called a 'President' bracelet), like the example that we have here.
This Reference 18038 from circa 1983 is a 'quickset' example with a colorful dial. It comes to us with a strong case that has seen a light polishing at a previous time, retaining thick, symmetrical lugs and shows minimal signs of wear with only one small impression on the bottom left lug profile. The bracelet is in matching condition and features the desirable 'hidden' clasp. Inside, the matte dial remains in outstanding condition overall, with virtually no wear or blemishes visible apart from some faint oxidation on the 4 o'clock marker. The dial itself straddles a line between a shade of blue and purple and features applied yellow gold 'Roman' indices — reminiscent of a 'Buckley' dial — which compliment the case metal. The Tritium plots show even patina throughout, with the 10 o'clock location exhibiting minor loss.
Whats more, this piece is accompanied by its punched papers dating to 1983.
All in all, this is a great example of an icon with a splash of color.
Watch + Condition Details
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*Please note that due to the vintage or antique nature of many of our watches, these machines may not run as accurately as they did when new, nor will any mechanical timepiece keep time as accurately as a quartz or electronic device.
We do not guarantee water resistance, thus do not warranty against moisture incursion or water damage.
*We also do not recommend deliberate exposure to water or worse - steam!
Our warranty is voided under the following circumstances:
- Internal or external damage caused by an accident, mishandling, abuse, modification, or handling/service performed by a third party individual other than one of our own.
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Through rigorous vetting of each watch offered, we’re able to guarantee authenticity of our pieces. Ultimately, your satisfaction is our mission, as is helping you get YOUR perfect watch. If you have any questions at all, we will get back to you ASAP.
Each of our timepieces are vetted, evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our experienced team prior to sale. We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise disclosed. We guarantee the authenticity of each watch in perpetuity.
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From Rolex & Patek Philippe, to Cartier & Audemars Piguet. As collectors first, we love the small details that separate the Submariner from Daytona and Calatrava from Royal Oak. This is why you'll find our curated assortment spans decades of generations of models and brands. We believe that watches don't just tell time, they tell history - and life is too short to wear a boring watch.
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