1990 Rolex Day-Date 18238 Carousel - Pave Dial

Reference: 18238

Model: Day-Date

Year: 1990

Movement: Automatic

Case Size: 36mm

Bezel: 18k yellow gold

Bracelet: Integrated 18k yellow gold President bracelet

Dial: White carousel dial with diamond hour markers

Rolex Day-Date: A Timeless Icon of Luxury and Precision

The Rolex Day-Date was first introduced in 1956 by Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of Rolex. Known as the "President" watch, it was the first wristwatch to display both the day of the week and the date fully spelled out on the dial. This innovative feature set the Day-Date apart as a truly groundbreaking timepiece, combining both aesthetic elegance and practical functionality.

A Brief History of Rolex:

Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London, Rolex revolutionized the watchmaking industry. Wilsdorf’s vision was to create a wristwatch that combined precision and durability. In 1908, he registered the Rolex name, and in 1910, the brand became the first wristwatch company to receive the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision—a significant milestone in the pursuit of perfection.

Rolex's legacy is built on a series of pioneering innovations. In 1926, Rolex introduced the Oyster case, the world’s first waterproof watch case, and in 1931, it developed the Perpetual movement, the first self-winding mechanism that continues to power modern Rolex watches. These innovations, along with Rolex's unmatched craftsmanship, have cemented its status as the premier luxury watch brand.

The Importance of the Rolex Day-Date 36mm:

The Rolex Day-Date 36mm has become one of the brand’s most iconic and prestigious models, synonymous with success, elegance, and refinement. Here are a few reasons why the Day-Date 36mm is so important:

• First Full Date and Day Display: The Day-Date, introduced in 1956, was the first wristwatch to feature a day of the week display fully spelled out in a window on the dial, alongside the date. This practical yet innovative feature made it an essential tool for high-profile individuals who wanted both function and luxury in one timepiece.
• Symbol of Prestige: Often referred to as the "President's Watch", the Day-Date has been worn by countless influential figures, including U.S. presidents, world leaders, and celebrities. The watch’s association with power and status has made it a symbol of success and achievement.
• Elegant Design and Size: The 36mm case size of the Day-Date strikes the perfect balance between size, comfort, and luxury. While larger watches have gained popularity in recent years, the 36mm case remains a classic, fitting comfortably on most wrists and exuding a timeless elegance. This size is favored by many collectors for its proportions and classic aesthetic.
• Craftsmanship and Durability: As with all Rolex models, the Day-Date is crafted from 18k gold or platinum, materials chosen for their luxury and longevity. It features the Oyster case, ensuring that the watch remains waterproof and resistant to the elements. Inside, the Perpetual movement ensures that the watch keeps accurate time, providing both reliability and precision.
• Timeless Appeal: The Day-Date’s refined design—from its iconic fluted bezel to its easy-to-read day and date windows—has remained virtually unchanged for decades. This timeless design, combined with its legendary craftsmanship, makes the Rolex Day-Date 36mm a truly enduring classic.