Rolex Day-Date

The Day-Date was one of the first wristwatches in history to provide not only the traditional date display (which is also incorporated in the Datejust), but also a display that indicates the day of the week written out in full.

The date display with the characteristic Rolex Cyclops lens is positioned at three o’clock. At twelve o’clock is a window that is streamlined to be parallel to the curve of the case, and displays the written out weekday that is namesake of the Day-Date.

Whether in English, Chinese, Italian or Russian - the day written in full can be displayed in one of more than 26 world languages. Although this day display may sound conspicuous, the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date impresses with its understated and classic design. Due to its timeless elegance and its striking display, the Day-Date enjoys high recognition and value among men, particularly when looking at vintage Rolex models. The newer versions of this design are also enjoying increasing popularity among the female clientèle.

The Day-Date (sometimes seen as Daydate), is also known as The Rolex President, particularly in the United States. On the one hand, the nickname can be attributed to the President bracelet, which was created specifically for the Day-Date. This sophisticated bracelet with three semi-circular piece links was presented in 1956 together with the Day-Date. It complements not only the Day-Date but also several precious metal models of the Rolex Datejust.

On the other hand, the nickname could also refer to famous proponents of the model: Numerous heads of state and historic decision-makers were and currently are in possession of a Rolex Day-Date. President Lyndon B. Johnson was just as loyal of a client as Fidel Castro, who wore his Day-Date together with his Submariner on his left wrist.

The rumours surrounding the second name of the watch only adds to the air of authority and mystery created by this beautiful piece. Wherever where the nickname “President” might have come from, it has certainly contributed to the phenomenal success of the Day-Date.

The diverse Day-Date watch family offers Rolex clientèle with an extensive range of colours, materials and detail. Buyers can decide between 18-carat yellow, white, or Everose gold and between an Oyster, or a President bracelet.

The Day-Date has been available with a leather strap since 2013. Rolex presented a new and colourful series of the successful model at Baselworld. The new Day-Dates (e.g. Ref. 118138, Ref. 118139, and Ref. 118135) can be purchased in five different shades that are colour-coordinated with the watch face. The bezel of the Day-Date comes fluted, polished or encrusted with gemstones. The hour markers on the watch face are available in Roman numerals as well as a diamond variation. The valuable gemstone decoration is an eye-catcher for black tie events and more simple models are ideal for everyday business life. The Day-Date is a wonderful example of an exclusive watch that can be adapted to suit your style.

The latest Day-Date models (Ref. 118238 or Ref. 118239) are equipped with the Parachrom hairspring, manufactured entirely by Rolex. They are insensitive to temperature variations and shock, and fitted with the calibre 3155 and self-winding mechanism. Whether looking for a new model or a second-hand Rolex, the quality and style of the Rolex President is never a letdown.

The Oyster Perpetual Day-Date is manufactured exclusively in gold and platinum, which makes it not only a valuable piece of jewellery and a reliable timepiece, but also a secure capital investment.

Due to the exquisite workmanship and stable brand equity of Rolex, the Day-Date is considered a beneficial investment among collectors and connoisseurs. Exceptional price offers can be found on the second-hand and vintage watch markets. Newer models or models with gemstones can be found from £11,000.The Rolex President is an excellent investment and a beautiful, exclusive watch. Owning such an exquisite timepiece provides perfect timekeeping along with timeless style.

Although the Day-Date was actually designed as a men's watch, it adorns just as many female wrists and consequently, the smaller 36mm version is recommended for women. As the watch is one of the brand's classics, it has been re-released in many different editions over the years. Prices vary depending on condition and year of publication. At CHRONEXT you will find a large selection of Rolex Day-Date vintage at fair prices and available for immediate delivery.

Reference 1803

The Rolex Day-Date vintage is available in a variety of styles. One of the most famous models is the Reference 1803, which made its debut in the early 1960s. Typical features of this reference are the yellow gold case and the champagne-coloured dial. The fluted bezel is decorated with Roman numerals.

Reference 18038

The 18038 reference, on the other hand, was launched in 1977 as the fifth generation of the Rolex Day-Date and was equipped with sapphire crystal and Calibre 3055. For collectors who are looking for an unusual object, there are the exclusive models 118238 and 118235. Since the condition of vintage watches can vary greatly, there are always considerable price fluctuations. Especially rare and well-preserved watches in their original condition make for lucrative investments.

CHRONEXT isn't only great for buying luxury timepieces, it's the ideal place for selling them too. If you want to part with a Rolex Day-Date model, please contact our team of experienced specialists. We will help you get the best possible price – whether by trading in, commission or direct sale – and make you an attractive offer. Get in touch with us by phone or email and we will be happy to run through all the options. Alternatively, simply complete a short online form and you'll hear from us within a couple of days.