Everywatch

Rolex Day-Date 18039

Description

1981 Rolex Day-Date 18K WG (Ref. 18039) Blue Vignette Diamond Dial

The Rolex Day-Date is one of the most iconic and beautiful watches in the Rolex catalog. The Rolex Day-Date earned the nickname "President" after it was rumored that President Dwight Eisenhower wore one, but Eisenhower actually wore a Rolex 18K yellow gold Oyster-Perpetual Datejust, which Rolex gifted to him in 1953. However, the nickname "President" is quite fitting for the Day-Date, as Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Ford, Reagan, Nixon, and Roosevelt all wore the Rolex Day-Date. Apart from its executive affiliation, the Day-Date is a symbol of status and luxury, only produced in highly refined precious metals, including 18K yellow, white, and rose gold, and also platinum, featuring both the day and date complications within the movement. Rolex finds the perfect balance between luxury and functionality, and this 1981 Rolex Day-Date ref. 18039 blue vignette dial with factory diamonds is proof of that. There is always rigorous approval testing for any materials used by Rolex; therefore, only the finest materials are used to make Rolex watches. The vignette dials are beautifully crafted "Stella" or lacquered dials that feature incredible dimension by contrasting deep and vibrant colors. The diamond dial Rolex Day-Date is perfect for the enthusiast who has an appreciation for luxurious watchmaking with subtlety. SPECS CASE & BRACELET The 18K white gold case remains remarkably well-preserved, showing extremely crisp edges with thick dimensions throughout. The 18K white gold fluted bezel also remains in excellent condition, displaying sharp angles and edges, with no notable wear present. The case retains its original two-dot white gold twin-lock crown, which has achieved a warm color from age. The era-correct 18K white gold Rolex 8385 President bracelet dates slightly later than the watch and retains 23 links that exhibit nominal stretch and will fit up to a 7.25-inch wrist. DIAL & HANDS The stunningly gorgeous and original blue vignette "Stella" lacquered dial with factory diamond markers is virtually flawless, with the only element of age being a small spot of delamination hidden in the right corner of the day window, which is invisible to the naked eye, and the dial is otherwise perfect. The diamond markers have been inspected for their clarity and remain original to the watch. The tritium lume plots have achieved a lovely cream patina and exhibit no degradation when inspected under UV light. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and show no degradation under UV light inspection. The date wheel is original with "open" 6's and 9's. ACCESSORIES None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping. Stock : RLXDD18039BVD Brand : Rolex Style : Day-Date Model : 18039 Serial : 65XXXXX Size : Men's Material : 18K White Gold Dial : Blue Vignette W/ Factory Diamonds Millimeters : 36 Strap : Rolex 8385 18K WG President Bracelet

Collectible Features |Rolex Day-Date 18039

Discover all the different variants of this specific reference that can enhance, or limit, this watch's value and collectability.
Tropical Dial
A dial that has aged from black to a brown or caramel color due to prolonged exposure to sunlight and elements. Highly prized for its unique and attractive aging. Greatly increases value due to unique appearance and collector demand.
Khanjar
Part of the national emblem of Oman, watches fitted with "Khanjar" dials were made upon special request from His Majesty Qaboos bin Said Al Said, the Sultan of Oman, and are highly coveted.
Stella Dial
The Rolex Stella Dial refers to a series of brightly colored lacquered dials, primarily found on vintage Rolex Day-Date models from the 1970s and early 1980s. These dials are known for their bold, vibrant colors along with a high-gloss enamel finish that gives them a distinctive look. What makes the Stella Dials particularly collectible is their rarity and uniqueness, as they were produced in limited numbers and initially aimed at specific markets, such as the Middle East and Asia. Although not widely popular at the time, the retro appeal and scarcity of these colorful dials have made them highly desirable among modern collectors.

Similar Watches