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

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Details
The Bridge To The Modern Day-Date
The reference 18038 is a landmark model for the Day-Date. Introduced around 1977, it brought the collection into a new era by adding a sapphire crystal and, most importantly, the "single quickset" date function. This was a huge leap in convenience, allowing the owner to adjust the date independently without endlessly spinning the hands. The 18038 retains the classic 36mm proportions and solid gold presence of its predecessors, but with a movement that makes it far more practical for daily life. It is the perfect bridge between vintage charm and modern usability.
An Unpolished Survivor Example
What sets this Day-Date apart is its honesty. This is an unpolished survivor, a watch that has been worn and enjoyed but never artificially refinished. The champagne diamond dial is the definitive choice for a yellow gold President, offering a level of classic luxury that is instantly recognizable. Paired with the iconic President bracelet, this configuration represents the absolute peak of late 20th-century watch design.
Honest Case, Perfect Dial
This example is in good overall condition. The yellow gold case is very good, retaining its original factory lines and sharp edges, consistent with an unpolished watch. The champagne diamond dial is perfect. The President bracelet shows almost no sag or stretch, which is remarkable for its age, but its original factory finish has softened over time. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Foundational Gold Watch
This is the quintessential statement piece, a watch that defined an entire era of success and style. Its value lies in its authenticity and unpolished state. For the collector who values originality over later refinishing, this 18038 offers the perfect combination of historical importance, iconic design, and honest preservation.
Key Specs
Reference: 18038
Model: Day-Date
Era: 1980s
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: Fluted
Bracelet: President
Bracelet Length: Fits up to 7in
Dial: Champagne Diamond
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Weight: 130.3g
SKU: 1471

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!!!