Collectors within the horological community have questioned the origin of the nickname given to the firm’s beloved “Stella” dial. It has been inferred that “Stella”, Latin for “star”, was given its nickname due to the spectacular multi-layered lacquer coating combined with vibrant and rich colors that create an impressive, reflective surface that glistens like stars in the night, and are often mistaken for porcelain or enamel.
The Rolex Day-Date was made available with these so-called Stella dials for approximately two decades beginning in the late 1960s. Originally sold to American, Arab and Oriental markets, interestingly “Stella” Day-Dates were unsuccessful in Europe and have since achieved cult status amongst enthusiasts.
The present reference 1803 features a very rare and hardly ever seen pistachio-colored dial that perfectly complements the yellow gold case. Housed inside the case is the upgraded automatic caliber 1556, which features a hacking mechanism that allows for precise time-setting of the piece.
Preserved in excellent overall condition, the present example made in 1975 will certainly please the discerning collector.