page transition image
Skip to content

Cart

Your cart is empty

1987 Rolex Day Date 18038 - 18K Yellow Gold Onyx Pyramid Pinball Diamond Dial

Trade In
Details
A Dial Of Compounding Rarity
The Day-Date reference 18038 is a cornerstone of the Rolex catalog, but this example is a study in just how far the brand would go for its most exclusive clients. It features a factory Onyx stone dial, which is rare on its own. It then adds the geometric "Pyramid" or "Pinball" texture, a feature that is exceptionally difficult to execute on a fragile stone base. The final layer is the factory diamond setting. When these three elements come together in a single watch, confirmed by its original papers, it moves into a top tier of Day-Date collecting.
The President With A Trophy Dial
This is the definitive statement watch of the 1980s, rendered in solid 18K yellow gold from case to President bracelet. The 18038 was the first Day-Date reference to feature the convenience of a single quick-set function, bridging the gap between vintage aesthetics and modern usability. While the watch itself is an icon, the dial is the centerpiece. The combination of deep, mirror-like black onyx with the three-dimensional pyramid pattern and brilliant diamonds creates a visual effect that no standard metallic dial can replicate. It is a piece of art, housed within a legendary case.
Good Condition With Specific Character
Overall, this watch is in good condition. The 18K yellow gold case is very well-preserved and appears to be unpolished. As is common with stone dials, the onyx shows some signs of age, including a very small area of discoloration near the 10 o'clock marker and some light, general oxidation. The matching President bracelet has light sag, which is entirely consistent with its age. The watch is accompanied by its original papers, confirming its important configuration. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
For The Collector Of Anomalies
This is a watch for someone who understands that true rarity is often found in the details. It is not just a gold Day-Date, but a specific and seldom-seen configuration that represents Rolex's artisan capabilities. The combination of precious metal, exotic stone, and unique texture makes it a powerful and sophisticated choice. It is a watch that commands attention not just for what it is, but for the near impossibility of its dial.
Key Specs
Reference: 18038
Model: Day-Date
Year: 1987
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Fluted
Bracelet: President
Bracelet Length: 7in
Dial: Onyx Pyramid Pinball Diamond
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Weight: 131.2g
Includes: Original Rolex Warranty Papers
SKU: 1409

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!!!