Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1803 - Matte White 'Red Quarter' 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.
The piece that we have here, a Reference 1803 from circa 1972, is a yellow gold example with a very uncommon dial. White in color, it features an outer minute track with each interval of 15 printed in red rather than black. As such, these have become known as 'Red Quarter' dials. The condition is superb, with a crisp surface and evenly patinated Tritium plots with only minor loss and the handset matches beautifully. The case has been lightly previously polished but retains healthy, symmetrical lugs and shows normal signs of wear from age with only a few scattered blemishes throughout. The correct 'President' bracelet is in matching condition and features an adjustable blade-style clasp.
From ten feet away, this probably just looks like a run-of-the-mill Day-Date... But upon closer inspection of the dial, there is a deeper level of detail. And while you're unlikely to see another in the wild, you should probably tip your hat at that person should you see one.
From ten feet away, this probably just looks like a run-of-the-mill Day-Date... But upon closer inspection of the dial, there is a deeper level of detail. And while you're unlikely to see another in the wild, you should probably tip your hat at that person should you see one.
From ten feet away, this probably just looks like a run-of-the-mill Day-Date... But upon closer inspection of the dial, there is a deeper level of detail. And while you're unlikely to see another in the wild, you should probably tip your hat at that person should you see one.
Movement:
Automatic-winding chronometer certified caliber by Rolex.
Bracelet/Strap:
Correct Rolex yellow gold 'President' bracelet with 18 links and signed blade clasp stamped '72.' Previously polished and shows matching normal wear throughout and mild stretch. Sized for ≈7.25" wrist.
