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1979 Rolex Day-Date 18038 - 18K Yellow Gold Walnut Burl Wood Dial

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Details
The President, In Natural Form
The Day-Date has always been Rolex's canvas for experimentation with exotic materials. The reference 18038, which introduced the convenient single quickset date function, served as the perfect modern platform for dials made from natural stone and wood. A walnut burl wood dial completely changes the character of the watch, shifting it from a symbol of pure financial success to one of organic warmth and individuality. Each piece of wood is unique, meaning no two of these dials are ever exactly alike.
A Dial With Genuine Depth
This is a particularly nice cut of walnut burl, showing a rich and varied grain. The dial is free from any loss to its original clear coat, which is a common issue on these pieces. What makes this example stand out is a subtle three-dimensional effect visible around the dial's border, specifically between the six and nine o'clock markers. This texturing gives the dial a visual depth that goes beyond the typical flat wood surface, making it more engaging on the wrist.
An Unpolished Case And Honest Bracelet
The 18K yellow gold case is unpolished, retaining its original sharp lines and factory proportions. The walnut burl wood dial is in excellent, wearable condition, and the date wheel shows a slight misalignment in the window. The matching President bracelet shows medium stretch, which is entirely consistent and expected for a gold watch from this period. It remains structurally sound and comfortable. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
More Character Than A Standard Dial
This watch is for the person who respects the Day-Date as an institution but wants an execution with more personality. The wood dial offers a warmth and texture that a standard metallic dial cannot match. It’s a confident and sophisticated choice that stands apart from more common configurations. This is the definitive Day-Date for someone who values natural materials and the unique character they bring to a timeless design.
Key Specs
Reference: 18038
Model: Day-Date
Year: 1979
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: Fluted 18K Yellow Gold
Bracelet: President
Bracelet Length: 7.1in
Dial: Walnut Burl Wood
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Weight: 128g
SKU: 1615

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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!!!