page transition image
Skip to content

Cart

Your cart is empty

1980 Rolex Day-Date 36 18038 - 18K Yellow Gold Wood Dial

Trade In
Details

The Organic Face Of Prestige

The Rolex Day-Date reference 18038 represents a significant leap in the model's history, being one of the first to incorporate the Quickset date function. This innovation brought practical convenience to the iconic President watch. While the 18K yellow gold case and President bracelet are hallmarks of the Day-Date, it is the genuine wood dial that truly elevates this particular example. Each wood dial is inherently unique, possessing its own grain and texture, making every piece distinct and highly sought after by collectors who appreciate natural materials over traditional metallic finishes.

A Distinctive Material Choice

This 1980 example stands out with its warm 18K yellow gold construction paired with a compelling wood dial. The natural grain of the wood offers a soft, earthy contrast to the luster of the gold, creating a sophisticated and understated aesthetic. This specific configuration allows the watch to retain its inherent luxury while presenting a more unique and individualized character than its counterparts with standard lacquer or metallic dials. It is a piece that is designed to be worn and enjoyed daily, offering both visual interest and the robust reliability of the Day-Date platform.

Honest Wear On An Unpolished Case

The 18K yellow gold case is unpolished, retaining its original lines and profile. The wood dial shows some finish wear between the 12 and 1 o'clock positions. The President bracelet exhibits light stretch that is consistent with its age and use. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.

A Confident Statement In Natural Materials

This Day-Date is for the discerning collector who seeks a blend of traditional Rolex luxury with a genuinely unique material execution. The wood dial provides a subtle yet powerful statement, distinguishing it from more common configurations. It is a watch that carries significant presence on the wrist while offering the enduring appeal and functionality expected from a Day-Date.
Key Specs
Reference: 18038
Model: Day-Date 36
Year: 1980
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: Fluted 18K YG
Bracelet: President
Bracelet Length: 6.75in
Dial: Wood
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Weight: 127g
SKU: 811
Vintage 1980 Rolex Day-Date 18038 18K Yellow Gold Wood Dial Automatic 36mm
1980 Rolex Day-Date 36 18038 - 18K Yellow Gold Wood Dial Sale price$28,500.00 USD

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!!!