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1979 Rolex Day-Date 18038 - 18K Yellow Gold Purple Diamond Dial

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Details
The Presidential Standard In An Uncommon Color
The reference 18038 is a cornerstone of the Day-Date collection, representing the first generation to feature the convenient single quick-set date function and a durable sapphire crystal. It is the perfect bridge between vintage proportions and modern utility. While the solid gold construction is the established standard for prestige, this example is distinguished by its rare purple diamond dial. It is a configuration that moves the watch beyond the boardroom and into a more expressive territory.
A Bold Statement In Solid Gold
This watch is defined by its contrast. The classic, universally recognized silhouette of the 36mm Day-Date in 18K yellow gold is paired with a dial that is anything but conventional. The deep purple hue provides a rich backdrop for the diamond indices, creating a look that is both luxurious and highly individual. This is a watch for someone who understands the weight and history of the President bracelet but wants a version that stands apart from the more common champagne and silver dials.
A Well Kept Example From The Late Seventies
This Day-Date is in good overall condition. The yellow gold case and fluted bezel present well. The purple diamond dial is in great shape, showing clean and vibrant color. Its President bracelet shows some stretch consistent with a gold watch of this era but maintains its structural integrity and classic feel on the wrist. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
More Than A Status Symbol
This is the right Day-Date for a collector who values individuality as much as heritage. The watch carries the same authority as any solid gold President, but the uncommon dial color ensures it will never be overlooked. It works today as a confident statement piece that balances the unimpeachable reputation of the model with a flash of personal style. It’s a classic that refuses to be predictable.
Key Specs
Reference: 18038
Model: Day-Date
Year: 1979
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: Fluted
Bracelet: President
Bracelet Length: 7.2in
Dial: Purple Diamond
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Weight: 130
SKU: 1528

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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!!!