Rolex - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVII Hong Kong Friday, November 24, 2023 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Rolex
    Year: Circa 1991
    Reference No: 18388
    Movement No: 6’331’379
    Case No: X575’476, inside caseback stamped “18200”
    Model Name: Day-Date 36
    Material: 18K yellow gold and diamonds
    Calibre: Automatic, cal. 3155, 31 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: 18K yellow gold Rolex President bracelet, endlinks stamped “55B”, max length 165mm
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Rolex concealed folding clasp stamped “8385”
    Dimensions: 36mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    Among Rolex's legendary watch models, the Day-Date stands apart as both a pioneering icon and enduring emblem of luxury. Launched in 1956 as the brand's first self-winding, waterproof, calendar wristwatch, the Day-Date was a groundbreaking integration of technical innovation and elegant aesthetics.

    The Day-Date earned its eminent nickname “the President” after being spotted on the wrists of numerous U.S. presidents, dignitaries, and heads of state. However, its sophisticated design and refined craftsmanship possess a universal appeal that transcends status symbols.

    While staying true to its signature aesthetics over the decades, Rolex has introduced an astounding diversity of Day-Date iterations through creative implementations of dial, case, and size variations. From exotic dials to precious metals and gems, the Day-Date collection showcases Rolex's unrelenting ingenuity and versatility as a manufacturer.

    The present yellow gold Day-Date ref. 18388 is a shining exemplar of Rolex's expertise. Its sleek 36mm Oyster case retains the collection's iconic profile, while the diamond-set bezel, lugs, dial and ruby-set hour ring add sophistication befitting the moniker “the President.” The bejeweled dial provides an elegant contrast against the glittering diamonds and warm yellow gold that has developed an attractive oxidation over time.

    Preserved in attractive overall condition, this dazzling Day-Date from circa 1991 offers collectors a chance to own an emblem of luxury, prestige, and innovation.

  • Artist Biography

    Rolex

    Swiss • 1905

    Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.

    One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.

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960

Ref. 18388
An impressive and extravagant yellow gold and diamond-set wristwatch with bracelet, center seconds, day, date and pavé diamonds and rubies-set dial

Circa 1991
36mm diameter
Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed

Estimate
HK$200,000 - 400,000 
€24,200-48,400
$25,600-51,300

Sold for HK$279,400

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVII

Hong Kong Auction 24-25 November 2023