1979 Rolex Day-Date 18038 - Yellow Gold Diamond Baguette String Dial
One of the Rarer 18038 Layouts We’ve Seen
The reference 18038 is a landmark in the Day-Date timeline, introducing the single-quickset movement for modern convenience, but this 1979 example is defined entirely by its rare factory dial. This is a Baguette and Brilliant String Dial. Unlike a standard diamond dial, the "string" configuration features a continuous circle of brilliant-cut diamonds encircling the center, punctuated by high-polished baguette markers at the hours. It's an incredibly rare layout that provides a level of depth and light-play far beyond the common 8+2 diamond configurations.
A Very Rare Dial Configuration From Factory
As an early production 18038, this watch represents the bridge between the vintage aesthetic of the 1970s and the mechanical reliability of the modern era. You get the classic 36mm proportions and the warmth of late-70s yellow gold, paired with the practicality of a quickset date. The dial has aged honestly, showing some expected lume degradation that anchors it as a true period piece.
Overall Condition and Proven Performance
This watch is in good, ready-to-wear condition. The 18k yellow gold case and Presidential bracelet show an honest life, with light sag in the bracelet. The crystal and dial are in great overall condition with all stones in tact. Mechanically, the movement is performing very well for its age, passing our test bench with strong amplitude and consistent timing.
The Halo of Baguettes
This is a Day-Date for the collector who wants the heaviest hitting specification. The Baguette String dial is a serious collector-tier detail that sets it apart from every other gold Rolex in the room. It's for the individual who values the rarity of a specific factory gem-set dial but wants a watch they can actually wear and enjoy without hesitation.
At Danny's Vintage Watches, we rigorously authenticate and inspect every watch to guarantee both its authenticity and exceptional quality. Your complete satisfaction is our utmost priority. We are dedicated to guiding you to the ideal timepiece that meets your desires. Should you have any inquiries, our team is ready to provide swift and comprehensive assistance.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
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Shipping
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What Our Clients Say About Us
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)
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.
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….
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!!!