Rolex Day-Date 18038

Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 - 'Burlwood' 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 (called a 'President' bracelet), like the example that we have here. However, this isn't your run of the mill Day-Date... Dating to circa 1985, the Reference 18038 that we have here features a special lacquered wood dial. During this time, there where a few different wood dial variants available, with the example that we have here being of the walnut variant. It remains in excellent overall condition, with a smooth glossy surface and clear gold printing throughout. It has applied indices, framed day and date apertures, an applied logo at the 12 o'clock position, and a matching handset. The case, bracelet and bezel are also in strong condition overall, having been lightly previously polished in the past and showing normal signs of wear throughout. Additionally, this piece features the almost magical 'quickset' movement function for setting the date. A real treat if you have ever owned a 4-digit Day-Date! The combination of the brown wood dial within the yellow gold case is undeniably a very of-it's-time combination... We think it had aged beautifully and collectors seem to agree. As a result, these remain sought after and collectible — and its not everyday that they surface in condition like this. Movement: Automatic-winding chronometer certified caliber by Rolex. Bracelet/Strap: Rolex yellow gold 'President' bracelet with 20 links and signed 'hidden' deployant clasp stamped 'J6.' Lightly previously polished, showing normal wear with faint stretch. Sized for ≈7" wrist.