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1981 Rolex Day-Date 18038 - 18K Yellow Gold Champagne Dial

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Details
The Introduction Of The Quickset
The reference 18038 represents a major turning point for the Day-Date collection. Introduced in the late 1970s, it was the first reference to feature the Caliber 3055, which brought the highly practical single quickset function for the date. This was a significant technical upgrade that moved the flagship Rolex into the modern era. It retained the classic 36mm solid gold proportions but added a layer of convenience that owners had been waiting for.
The Definitive Yellow Gold Rolex
This 1981 example is the quintessential Day-Date. It pairs the solid 18K yellow gold case with a classic champagne sunburst dial, a combination that has defined the model for decades. It is the configuration most people picture when they think of a Rolex President. The watch makes a confident statement without needing complicated dials or exotic materials. It is the foundation of the collection.
A Sharp Case, Ready To Wear
This example is in very good condition. The 18K yellow gold case shows sharp, well-defined lines. The champagne sunburst dial is clean and presents well. The date wheel shows a slight misalignment in the window. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Cornerstone Of A Collection
There are few watches as universally recognized as a gold Day-Date. It is a cornerstone piece for any serious collection and a definitive statement of success. This 18038 offers the perfect blend of vintage feel and modern usability, making it an excellent choice for someone who wants the classic 36mm presence with the practicality of a quickset date. It works because it is, and always has been, the top of the line.
Key Specs
Reference: 18038
Model: Day-Date
Year: 1981
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Fluted
Strap: Leather
Dial: Champagne Sunburst
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
SKU: 1536

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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!!!