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1986 Rolex Day-Date 36 18038 - 18K Yellow Gold Bloodstone Dial

Details
A Deeper Cut Of The Day-Date
The reference 18038 marked a pivotal moment for the Day-Date, introducing the convenience of a single-quickset date function and the durability of a sapphire crystal. It brought the classic Day-Date into the modern era without losing its quintessential 36mm proportions. While any 18038 in solid gold is a statement, this example moves into a more esoteric category with its factory Bloodstone dial. This rare mineral face, with its deep green base and signature red hematite inclusions, was an unconventional choice that showcased Rolex's willingness to experiment with exotic materials during the seventies and eighties.
The Character Of Natural Stone
Bloodstone is one of the more subtle and uncommon stones used by Rolex, prized for its unique organic pattern. Also known as Heliotrope, the deep green chalcedony is speckled with flecks of iron oxide that resemble drops of blood, giving the mineral its name. Each dial is cut from a unique slab of stone, ensuring that no two are ever identical. The result is a watch that feels personal and distinct, a departure from the more common metallic sunburst dials that defined the era. It is a choice for someone who appreciates natural artistry as much as mechanical precision.
An Honest Example for All Collectors
This 18K yellow gold case is sharp and well-defined. The Bloodstone dial is the centerpiece, presenting a deep and uniform green field with its characteristic red mineral deposits. There are cracks near the day wheel as well as one leading to the center. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Connoisseur's President
This is a Day-Date for the collector who wants to go beyond the conventional. It represents the height of 1980s Rolex confidence, pairing the ultimate status watch with a rare and organic dial. The Bloodstone offers a visual depth that a standard dial cannot replicate, shifting from a near-black in low light to a rich forest green with red flecks under direct sun. It is a powerful, yet understated, take on a classic that will always stand apart.
Key Specs
Reference: 18038
Model: Day-Date
Era: 1986
Movement: Automatic (Cal. 3055)
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Fluted
Strap: Green Leather
Bracelet Length: Adjustable
Dial: Natural Bloodstone
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
SKU: 986

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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

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