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1969 Rolex Day-Date 1811 - Morellis with White Dial

Details

A Day-Date with uncommon texture

This Rolex Day-Date sits in a very specific corner of the model’s history. Produced in 1969, it pairs the familiar 36mm Day-Date case with a Morellis-style gold bezel and a Spanish day wheel, two details that immediately move it away from standard configurations. 

Why this configuration stands out

The defining feature here is the Spanish day wheel, which has developed attractive, even patina across the discs. It gives the watch warmth and character that you simply don’t get from cleaner, later examples. Paired with the gold case and distinctive bezel execution, it reflects a time when Rolex was still offering regional design variations that weren’t produced in massive numbers.

This is not about complication or rarity for rarity’s sake, it’s about a combination of small details that collectively make the watch more interesting to live with.

Condition, clearly stated

Condition is presented transparently. The dial shows hazing on the hour markers and a small scratch between the 1 and 2 o’clock positions, consistent with age and honest wear. The case shows expected signs of use, and the crystal is clean.

The watch is fitted with a new aftermarket bracelet and buckle. All core components including the dial, movement, case, caseback, and crown remain original. Mechanically, the watch is running and ready to wear.

A character-driven Day-Date

This is a Day-Date for someone who values personality over perfection. The Spanish calendar, aged dial elements, and distinctive bezel give it charm that may remind you of your home town, or a speical place. 

Key Specs

Reference: 1811

Model: OP Day-Date

Year: 1969

Movement: Automatic

Case Size: 36mm

Bezel: 18K gold Morellis

Bracelet: New AM strap

Dial: Spanish wheel patina

Weight: 64.1g

SKU: 65

History

Rolex Day-Date: A Timeless Icon of Luxury and PrecisionThe 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.

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!!!