page transition image
Skip to content

Cart

Your cart is empty

1978 Rolex Day-Date 1803 - 18K Yellow Gold Champagne Dial

Trade In
Details
The Original Power Watch
The Day-Date has been the flagship of the Rolex catalog since its debut, offered exclusively in precious metals. The reference 1803 is the quintessential vintage execution of this idea, pairing a solid 18-karat gold case with the iconic fluted bezel. This example features the classic "pie pan" dial, a detail with a subtle depth that is highly prized by collectors. It is the watch that defined success for a generation.
A Sharp And Classic Execution
What makes this particular Day-Date stand out is the sharpness of its case. The lines are well-defined and the lugs remain thick, giving the watch a strong presence. The champagne stick dial is clean and classic, providing a timeless look that avoids the trends of any specific era. Presented on a leather strap, it wears with a slightly more understated and versatile feel than its counterpart on a full gold bracelet.
An Excellent Vintage Example
This watch is in excellent condition. The 18-karat yellow gold case is impressively sharp, which is the first thing to look for in a vintage gold piece. The champagne dial is very well preserved. The watch is mounted on a new leather strap, ready for its next owner. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Definitive Gold Watch
This is the right choice for someone who wants the gravity of the original Rolex power watch without the full heft of a bracelet. It carries the same prestige and history, but in a package that works just as well for daily wear as it does for formal occasions. It is a foundational piece for any collection, representing the top of the brand's hierarchy in its most classic form.
Key Specs
Reference: 1803
Model: Day-Date
Year: 1978
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Fluted
Strap: Leather
Dial: Champagne Stick "Pie Pan"
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
SKU: 1246
Vintage 1978 Rolex Day-Date 1803 18K YG Champagne Dial Auto 36mm
1978 Rolex Day-Date 1803 - 18K Yellow Gold Champagne Dial Sale price$11,500.00 USD

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!