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Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979

Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979

This 1979 example of the Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038, exemplifies the brand’s craftsmanship and refinement. The 18k yellow gold case is complemented by a fluted bezel and the iconic champagne dial, creating a distinguished and cohesive aesthetic. Powered by the upgraded Caliber. 3055 movement, it features a single quickset function for added convenience. A defining model within the Day-Date lineage, this watch remains a sought-after choice for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate both heritage and mechanical excellence.

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Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 'Champagne' Dial 1979

This 1979 example of the Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038, exemplifies the brand’s craftsmanship and refinement. The 18k yellow gold case is complemented by a fluted bezel and the iconic champagne dial, creating a distinguished and cohesive aesthetic. Powered by the upgraded Caliber. 3055 movement, it features a single quickset function for added convenience. A defining model within the Day-Date lineage, this watch remains a sought-after choice for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate both heritage and mechanical excellence.

  • Details

    • Maker

      Rolex

    • Model

      Day-Date

    • Reference

      18038

    • Year

      1979

    • Serial

      637XXXX

    • Box & Papers

      No

    • Movement

      Caliber. 3055, automatic w/ 42-hour power reserve & single quickset function

    • Dial & Hands

      Champagne dial w/ tritium hour markers & hands

    • Bezel

      Fluted, 18k yellow gold

    • Crystal

      Sapphire

    • Bracelet/Strap

      Presidential bracelet w/ hidden clasp & 5 screw links, 18k yellow gold

    • Performance

      Watch is fully functioning and running at -2 seconds per day

  • Dimensions

    Diameter: 36mm; thickness: 12.5mm; lug width: 20mm

  • Materials

    18k yellow gold

  • Presidential bracelet with a fair amount of links
  • Overall in great vintage condition
  • Convenient with the single quickset function
  • Minor hairline scratches and scuffs on case commensurate with age
  • Minor marks on dial
  • Minor dust around cyclops

All watches are shipped free of charge by New Zealand Post (overnight),Urgent Courier (same day) within New Zealand, or DHL Express (2-7 business days) for the rest of the world.

Packages strictly require a signature for delivery and are insured for their full value. Visit Shipping & Postage for more information.

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Servicing Warranty

Buy in confidence with our 30 day servicing warranty on all watches that have been listed on the website for sale.

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After Sale Service

If you need the watch to be serviced, want to add on a strap or have any questions, we are always here to help.

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Condition
Report

Overall, the watch is in great condition. The flat champagne dial is in good condition. The dial features applied hour markers along with thin baton style hands and tritium hour markers — the 1 o'clock tritium plop has seen some degradation but all the others remain clean and even. Positioned at 12 o'clock is the day window and at 3 o'clock is the date window, and just below the 6 o'clock marker, you'll find the tagline 'T Swiss Made T'.

The sapphire crystal is in great condition with only minor dust near the cyclops — the Rolex logo is etched at 6 o'clock pointing to this being a replacement crystal from a previous service. The fluted 18k yellow gold bezel shimmers in various light and is beautifully subdued in tone compared to modern gold counterparts.

The 36mm no holes case is in great condition for its age, bearing only minor hairline scratches and some minor scuffs. Likely polished in its past, the case edges are original to its design. It's hallmarks are very present on the back of the case. The crown, located at 3 o'clock, can be wound smoothly and operates without any resistance.

Currently, the watch is on an 18k yellow gold Rolex Presidential 8385 bracelet with 55B end links. The clasp code is stamped with "V" pointing to a 1996 production date. This specific 8385 bracelet is period correct for this watch. It comes with 5 screw links fitting up to 7.25" wrists.

Powering the watch is the Caliber. 3055, an automatic movement with a 42-hour power reserve currently running at -2 seconds per day. Finally, the watch's "637XXXX" serial number, indicates a production date of 1979.

Rolex Day-Date
History

Launched in 1956, the Rolex Day-Date made history as the inaugural waterproof self-winding chronometer wristwatch showcasing both the date and day of the week. Rolex presented this remarkable timepiece to Mr. Eisenhower, the 35th President of the United States. Even in the present day, it continues to be recognised as the epitome of luxury.