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1988 Rolex Day-Date 18039 - 18K White Gold Silver Sunburst Dial

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Details
The Apex Of Understated Presence
The reference 18039 holds a special place in the history of the Day-Date. It was part of the first five-digit series that introduced the sapphire crystal and, most importantly, the single-quickset function for the date. This technical upgrade transformed the user experience, bridging the gap between vintage charm and modern convenience. While yellow gold defined the model for decades, the 18k white gold version always represented a more reserved and confident form of luxury. It is significantly less common than its yellow gold counterpart from this era, offering the full weight and prestige of a solid gold Rolex without the overt statement.
An Exceptionally Preserved Example
This 1988 example is a standout due to its remarkable state of preservation, a clear indicator of a careful ownership history. The watch is accompanied by its original papers, a detail that is increasingly difficult to find with pieces of this age. More importantly, the case remains unpolished, retaining the sharp, factory-defined lines that are so often lost over time. The solid 18k white gold President bracelet shows almost zero sag, a testament to how sparingly this watch was worn. It is a complete and honest package that represents the top tier of this reference.
Excellent, Unpolished, And Honest
This piece is in excellent condition. The case is clearly unpolished, with thick, even lugs and its original brushed and polished finishes intact. The classic silver sunburst dial is clean and without flaw, providing a timeless and versatile look. The 18k white gold President bracelet is in superb shape, exhibiting a tightness that is rarely seen on a watch of this vintage. It is a well-preserved watch that shows minimal signs of wear. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
Quiet Confidence For The Discerning Collector
This is not a watch for someone seeking loud recognition. It is for the individual who appreciates the substance and history of the Day-Date but prefers a more discreet execution. The feel of solid white gold on the wrist is a private luxury, a tangible sense of quality meant for the owner alone. Combining the robust build of a transitional reference with a rare metal configuration and exceptional, honest condition, this 18039 is a confident choice that works in any setting. It is a foundational piece for a serious collection.
Key Specs
Reference: 18039
Model: Day-Date
Year: 1988
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: 18K White Gold Fluted
Bracelet: President
Dial: Silver Sunburst
Metal: 18K White Gold
Weight: 141.8g
Includes: Original Rolex Warranty Papers
SKU: 1381

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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!!!