1979 Rolex Day-Date 36 18078 - 18K Yellow Gold Bark Finish
The Understated Texture Of Vintage Gold
The "Bark" finish Day-Date is one of the most interesting and underappreciated executions in the brand's history. While the fluted bezel is iconic, this intricate, hand-applied texture on both the bezel and the center links of the President bracelet offers a completely different character. This example is further distinguished by its champagne dial, which features both applied stick markers and a printed outer Roman numeral chapter ring. Produced for a relatively short period, the 18078 Bark is a product of late 70s sensibilities, showcasing a more organic and decorative approach to finishing solid gold.
A True Time Capsule
This is an absolute time capsule example and one of the most well-preserved Bark Day-Dates we have ever handled. The integrated texture on the bezel and bracelet flows perfectly, a testament to its factory-original state. It's a watch that feels as though it was purchased, put away, and forgotten, which is precisely the kind of preservation collectors dream of finding. For a watch defined by its delicate finish, finding one this sharp is the exception, not the rule.
Exceptional Unpolished Condition
The condition of this watch is very good. The 18K yellow gold case is unpolished, retaining its original factory lines and the crisp definition of the bark texture. The champagne dial, with its applied markers and printed Roman chapter ring, is in immaculate condition. Most importantly, the President bracelet is in remarkable shape, showing no significant stretch or signs of wear, which is exceptionally rare for this style. It comes complete with its original papers. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
For The Connoisseur Of Day Date Finishing
This is a Day-Date for the person who already understands the core reference and is looking for a more nuanced version. Its appeal lies in its texture and connection to a specific moment in Rolex design history. The watch has all the presence of a classic gold Day-Date, but the bark finish gives it a warmer, more subtle feel on the wrist. It's a top-tier example of a reference that is finally getting the attention it deserves, perfect for the collector who appreciates the details others might miss.
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.
To get in contact directly with the team send us a text for the quickest response! 917-887-1584
If you are interested in trading or selling your watch please click here, and fill the form
Payments
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Shipping
We ship via FedEx, USPS, UPS, and DHL, depending on the item's value and your location. All domestic shipments are fully insured.
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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!!!