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1979 Rolex Datejust President 69178 - 18K Yellow Gold Walnut Burl Wood Dial

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Details
The Warmth Of An Organic Dial
During the 1970s, Rolex began experimenting with dials made from natural materials, creating rare and exotic configurations for their most classic models. This solid 18K gold Datejust from 1979 features one of the most sought-after of these executions: the Walnut Burl wood dial. Sliced from wood with a complex, irregular grain, each dial is entirely unique. The organic pattern provides a warm, textured contrast to the precision of the gold case and bracelet, transforming a classic dress watch into a piece with distinct character.
A Top Tier Datejust
The reference 69178 represents the peak specification for the 26mm Datejust. The combination of a solid 18K yellow gold case, a fluted bezel, and the iconic President bracelet creates a powerful statement on the wrist. While the President bracelet is most associated with the Day-Date, its use on the Datejust signifies the highest trim level available. This configuration pairs the brand’s most prestigious bracelet with a dial that is both visually striking and genuinely uncommon.
Honest Condition, Disclosed With Clarity
This watch is in good overall condition for its age. The delicate wood dial presents with hairline cracks visible at the bottom-left of the date wheel. The solid gold President bracelet carries heavy sag and stretch consistent with a piece that has been worn and enjoyed for over four decades. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
A Statement Of Individuality
This is a watch for someone who appreciates the form and prestige of a classic gold Rolex but desires a dial with real personality. The wood is subtle from a distance but reveals a deep, natural complexity up close. It moves the watch beyond a simple piece of jewelry and into the realm of collectible design. For the person who values texture and rarity over simple shine, this is a perfect choice.
Key Specs
Reference: 69178
Model: Datejust President
Year: 1979
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 26mm
Bezel: Fluted
Bracelet: President
Bracelet Length: 6.65in
Dial: Walnut Burl Wood
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Vintage 1979 Rolex Datejust 69178 18K YG Walnut Burl Wood Dial Auto 26mm
1979 Rolex Datejust President 69178 - 18K Yellow Gold Walnut Burl Wood Dial Sale price$16,500.00 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!!!