272 Rolex Extremely Rare, Very Attractive and Preserved in Nos Conditions, Day-date, Automatic Wristwatch in Gold, With Taxi-cab Yellow Lacquered “stella” Dial, Reference 18238

Estimate: €100,000 –⁠ 200,000

Model: Day-Date
Reference: 18238
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1995
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 3055
Case N°: W244368
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case
Literature: This specific watch is published in David Silver Book “Vintage Rolex— The Largest Collection in the World”

Rolex as elevated its Day-Date models with materials such as rubellite, blood stone, coral, and even colored lacquer, providing an unusual design twist to the iconic model. Of all Day-Dates, one of the most exclusive, desirable and distinguished variants is without a doubt the colorful “Stella” enamels. From bright red to a rich purple, passing through vivid green until getting to a shiny light blue, Rolex introduced this series of whimsical, playful colors into their Day-Date line, in a way that was unprecedented. Among all these colors that have been mentioned, has been omitted on purpose, the one that is possibly considered the most attractive and for sure one of the rarest ever produced: the yellow one. So rare is this model that the market has only seen a handful of examples over the years. When one does show up at auction, it is an incredibly noteworthy occasion. The case of this 18238 is preserved in excellent and unspoiled condition, displaying sharp hallmarks beneath the lugs and sharp finishes on the top of the lugs. The eye-catching yellow-mustard Stella dial is extremely shiny, with slightly oxidized gold baton indexes and a railway track with Roman numbers on the outer edge. Considered extremely sought after by collectors due to their rarity and great aesthetic impact given by the glamorous enamel colors, these day dates have aroused intense interest, especially the yellow one. This specific watch is published in David Silver Book “Vintage Rolex—The Largest Collection in the World.”