Rolex Day-Date Oysterquartz 19018 Black Dial YG
During the onslaught of the Japanese-led Quartz Crisis of the 70s and 80’s, Swiss watchmakers for forced to adapt to remain competitive in the market, or let themselves be swallowed up by their competition. As a way to deal with the Quartz Crisis, Rolex decided to release their own quartz timepiece in 1977, the Oysterquartz. In 1970, Rolex had released the precursor to the Oysterquartz, the Quartz Date 5100, powered by the Beta 21 movement, the result of a large-scale Swiss collaboration. While the Oysterquartz was loosely based on the ref. 5100, the Oysterquartz’ movement was in a league of its own. With 11 jewels, the latest CMOS circuitry, a 32000-hertz oscillator, and analog thermocompensation to regulate the quartz crystal, the Oysterquartz’s movement was held to just as high a standard as Rolex’s more typical mechanical movements. Besides its unusual movement, the Oysterquartz also features a unique construction in terms of its case shape and bracelet design, with an integrated bracelet attaching to a tonneau-shaped case. Additionally, the ref. 19018 is one of the most sought-after Oysterquartz variants with its Day-Date functionality, fluted bezel, hefty 18kt gold construction, and Day-Date Oysterquartz bracelet complete with a concealed clasp - something every Day-Date connoisseur can appreciate.
THE DIAL Featuring a stunning jet black dial, this ref. 19018 boasts a color combo that is as timeless as they come, black and gold. With its golden inscriptions and dial furniture placed within a jet-black backdrop surrounded by gold, this Oysterquartz Day-Date oozes pure luxury.
THE CONSTRUCTION Measuring 36mm in diameter, the Day-Date's Oysterquartz's integrated bracelet and tonneau-shaped case help beef up its 18kt yellow gold construction so that it fills the wrist with the same heft as its mechanical sibling.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT Quartz - No reading
