Rolex Day-Date 36 18338 – 18K YG Diamond Lugs Motif Diamond Dial
The "If You Know, You Know" Day-Date
The reference 18338 is one of the most intriguing "hidden" references in the Rolex catalog. To a casual observer, it appears to be a standard 18238, but for the seasoned collector, the distinction is immediately visible on the lugs. While most diamond-set Day-Dates from the 1990s were delivered with diamond-set bezels (Ref. 18348), the 18338 was a specific factory configuration featuring brilliant-cut diamond lugs paired with a traditional fluted bezel. It is a hybrid aesthetic that provides the prestige of a gem-set case while maintaining the iconic, sharp silhouette of the yellow gold fluted bezel.
A Textural Mid-90s Rarity
This 1995 example features a Motif Diamond dial, a design choice that was far less common than the standard champagne or silver options of the era. The motif pattern adds a layer of geometric rhythm to the dial that interacts with light in a way that flat lacquer cannot. By combining this textured background with factory diamond hour markers, Rolex created a dial that feels incredibly high-end but retains a "tool-watch" legibility. It captures the transition of the Day-Date from a strictly formal piece into the versatile, textured luxury icon it is today.
Physical Integrity and Service Status
This unit is in good overall condition, weighing in at a substantial 133.8 grams. The 18k yellow gold case remains thick, and the factory diamond setting on the lugs is crisp and secure. The President bracelet is in solid shape with a matching finish, currently sized for a 6-inch wrist. It is important to note that this watch is currently passing through our service department for mechanical attention, as it is a "waiting for service" piece. This ensures that when it reaches its next owner, the double-quickset movement will be functioning with the precision expected of a flagship Rolex.
A Deep-Cut For The Refined Collector
This watch works because it doesn't shout. It is a piece for the collector who appreciates factory gems but wants to avoid the "bling" aesthetic of a diamond bezel. The combination of the fluted bezel, the rare motif dial, and the diamond lugs makes it a conversation piece for those who actually understand the nuances of the 183xx series. It is a rare, documented survivor of the mid-90s that offers a level of exclusivity that a standard Day-Date simply cannot match.
At Danny's Vintage Watches, we rigorously authenticate and inspect every watch to guarantee both its authenticity and exceptional quality. Your complete satisfaction is our utmost priority. We are dedicated to guiding you to the ideal timepiece that meets your desires. Should you have any inquiries, our team is ready to provide swift and comprehensive assistance.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
To get in contact directly with the team send us a text for the quickest response! 917-887-1584
If you are interested in trading or selling your watch please click here, and fill the form
Payments
We are committed to providing a secure and seamless payment experience. Our site features a built-in payment processor that accepts most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). U.S. residents also have the option to pay via Zelle. If you prefer to pay via bank wire, which will be slightly cheaper, please send a text to 917-887-1584 so we can reserve the item you wish to purchase.
Shipping
We ship via FedEx, USPS, UPS, and DHL, depending on the item's value and your location. All domestic shipments are fully insured.
Choose options
The collector experience
Trusted by thousands of collectors across the nation, read what they have to say.
Andrew Brill
US
cannot recommend Danny’s Vintage Watches highly enough. I recently went through the process of selling my father’s Rolex, and the team made what could have been a stressful experience incredibly smooth and fair. I ended up trading for three absolute icons: two Cartier Tanks and a vintage Omega Speedmaster. The attention to detail on these pieces was impressive the Speedmaster was in beautiful condition, and the Cartier had been expertly re-plated and polished, looking practically new. What really sets Danny’s apart, though, is the after-care. When I unfortunately busted the crystal on one of the Cartier's eight months later, they sorted the repair quickly and for a very reasonable price. They even went the extra mile by referring me to a trusted jeweler for a ring resizing, where I’m certain their relationship helped me get a better deal. Their shop is filled with incredible finds. If you are a serious enthusiast or just looking for a fair, honest dealer, this is the place. I’ll definitely be back for my next "grail" watch!
Joel Brodfuehrer
Wonderful experience. Danny gave me personalized recommendations and service when purchasing vintage watches. He was patient with me and very understanding, taking into consideration my requests. I will absolutely be buying more watches from Danny! Thanks for a great transaction.
Y
JP
•30 October 2025The watch arrived safely and exactly as described. It's a beautiful piece, in excellent condition, and clearly well cared for. Communication was clear and courteous throughout, and the shipping was prompt and secure. I'm very pleased with this purchase and would happily buy from this seller again. Thank you very much!
Carl F.
US
•28 October 2025Excellent inventory and high quality communication. I found a rare vintage Rolex I had been seeking for a while and found Danny's a pleasure to do business with.
Erik Goldfarb
US
Nothing but great things to say about my experience at Danny’s Vintage. Danny and David are experts and truly find joy in finding unique vintage watches. They’re knowledgeable about this history of the watches and will help you find the right piece for you. Overall, a great experience and I’ll be back.
Aria pidge
US
Absolutely unreal experience. Found them from Facebook. Figured I’d browse the site. Fell in love with a patek, texted them, and they (specifically David) were so amazing and easy to chat with about options and inventory, process etc. Came in to pick up the watch - man, as you probably know - you cannot understate how great their selection is. That’s really one of the best parts as well. The service is great; they treat their clients great, prices are very good - but the curation is another huge stand out part. Anyway - these fellas were so great when we came in, that my wife was determined that we buy a watch for her, - you know just to help the business. Not for her, she insists, but because of how great the guys at the shop were. And I agreed so I obliged. :P It’s honestly a 10/10 shop. As we speak they are reworking both our watches to fit our bracelet and I’ll add photos when I pick up the watches. Heck, 11/10. They’re that good. Go there, you will not regret it! But it might be very hard not to leave with something
Jacob V.
US
•24 August 2025The vintage Rolex I purchased is a high quality watch. The customer service was superb. I highly recommend the seller.
Filipp Kirik
US
Danny and David are the best in the vintage watch business. They care about their client, They are passionate about the quality of watches that they sell. I’m so happy that I got my watch from them and I will never go anywhere else again.
Joseph H.
CA
•27 May 20255 Stars. Buy the dealer not the watch. Have complete faith in Danny's VW. They care about reputation and service. You can't go wrong with them. Highly recommend.
Olivia Garbin
US
If I could give more than 5 stars I would. They were so kind and actually cared what I bought as a present. We've already purchased from them again and will do more in the future. Incredible selection of pristine watches