page transition image
Skip to content

Cart

Your cart is empty

1979 Rolex Day-Date 18038 - 18K Yellow Gold Champagne Dial

Trade In
Details
The Uncontested Flagship
For nearly seventy years, the Day-Date has been the flagship of the Rolex catalog. It was the first watch to display both the day and date in full, an innovation that Rolex paired with an unwavering commitment to precious metals. From its inception, the Day-Date was only offered in solid gold or platinum, establishing a hierarchy that remains in place today. This reference 18038 carries that legacy forward, representing the definitive statement piece from the world's most recognized watch brand.
A Classic And Versatile Configuration
This example pairs the quintessential 36mm 18K yellow gold case with a classic champagne dial. The fluted bezel provides the sharp, reflective quality that defines the model. By placing the watch head on a black leather strap instead of the traditional President bracelet, the look becomes more versatile and understated. It highlights the pure form of the case itself, making it a strong candidate for someone who wants the gravity of a Day-Date with a more adaptable presence on the wrist.
Excellent Case With Sharp Lugs
This example is in excellent condition. The 18K yellow gold case retains sharp, well-defined lugs, indicating it has been cared for properly. The original champagne dial is clean. The hands appear to be service replacements, a common and practical update for watches of this era. The contrast between the gold case and black strap gives the watch a clean, intentional look. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Foundational Gold Rolex
This is the correct choice for someone who wants the weight and history of a solid gold Rolex without the formality of a full bracelet. The Day-Date is a watch that needs no introduction, and this configuration allows it to work in a wider range of settings. It is a foundational piece for any serious collection and a perfect daily watch for someone who understands the quiet confidence that comes with wearing the very best that Rolex has to offer.
Key Specs
Reference: 18038
Model: Day-Date
Year: 1979
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Fluted
Strap: Black Leather
Dial: Champagne
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
SKU: 1624

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!!!