Introduced in 1956, the Rolex Day-Date was the first wristwatch to display both the day of the week and the date on its dial. Beyond this practical complication, it became synonymous with influential individuals throughout the following decades, including celebrities and leaders of industry. After adorning the wrists of both U.S. Presidents and other world leaders, the nickname "President" became synonymous with the model. Today, the Day-Date represents a tradition of Swiss watchmaking excellence and serves as a testament to Rolex's unwavering commitment to quality, precision, and enduring style.

As with many five digit references, we believe they strike the perfect balance of modern features and vintage aesthetic. The brushed lugs of this era age more gracefully than their high-polished and more recent production counterparts. Aesthetics aside, the value clearly sits in this production period considering that modern examples trade for roughly double. The black/gilt accented dial has diamond indices from factory and displays stunning patina. This pairs up beautifully against the unpolished case/bracelet which that we know will have any experienced collector swooning. 

Dial: All of the tritium plots are present and full. They have taken on a stunning and warm custard color that pairs up with the hands. No notable blemishes under magnification. Bezel: Remains very sharp and displays light signs of use consistent with age. Hands: Are matching. All of their lume remains stable. Case: Appears completely unpolished with sharp edges. The lugs are thick and even. No distracting dings or dents. Correct signed crown. Bracelet: Correct 8385 that's fully linked (22) and light stretch. Crystal: Clear. The movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 1-year mechanical warranty.

Year/era: 1988 Reference: 18038 Serial: R50XXXX Dimensions: 36mm wide, 20mm lug width. Movement: Automatic Rolex caliber 3055.