110 Rolex Extraordinary and Very Rare, Day Date, Automatic Wristwatch in Steel, Gorgeous Tropical Brown Lacquered Dial, With White Gold Bezel, Special Prototype Configuration, Reference 6511, Coming From the Personal Collection of John Goldberger, Published in

Estimate: €750,000 –⁠ 1,500,000

Model: Day Date
Reference: 6511
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Year: 1955
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 1055
Case N°: 99272
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Literature: This specific watch is published in Pucci Papaleo’s Book “Day Date— The Presidential Rolex” at Page 100-101

The Rolex Day-Date is more than just a watch. it’s a cultural icon. As the most celebrated model from the world’s most renowned watchmaker, it stands as a testament to Rolex’s unmatched craftsmanship and innovation. While other models like the Daytona and Submariner have achieved legendary status, in terms of versatility, production, accessibility, significance, variations, and creativity, none can rival the Day-Date. It is, quite simply, the definitive Rolex. Timeless in its perfect proportions, with a 36mm case (except for some more recent versions), the Day-Date has consistently been the ideal choice for both watch enthusiasts and newcomers alike. First introduced to the world at the Basel Fair in 1956, with a patent filed on July 23, 1955, this extraordinary timepiece was the first to offer a simultaneous display of the day and date through two windows on the dial. Since then, it has become an integral part of political, cultural, and everyday life, earning the nickname “President Watch.” Despite its name suggesting exclusivity, the Day-Date is far from elitist. Although originally designed to be made exclusively from precious materials, this watch has captivated people from all walks of life, across different eras and professions, showing an extraordinary ability to transcend class and time. From platinum to white, yellow, and rose gold, no material was out of reach for the Day-Date. Its dials deserve special mention: a true kaleidoscope of colours and materials, often as surprising as they are captivating, further solidifying the watch’s legendary status. Precious metals, a plethora of hard stones and gem-set marvels have all been used to make the dials for these watches. Often watches so rich in detail and features have short lifespans, dictated by the fashions of the moment. The Day-Date, however, defied these unwritten rules, remaining immune to period fads and trends. A perfect synthesis of elegance and innovation, 60 years after its patent, the Day-Date remains as relevant as ever. Its allure, especially among collectors, has reached iconic levels, making it one of the most sought-after and desired models in history. Its story shows no signs of ending: long live the Day-Date!Today, Monaco Legend Group is honoured to present to collectors, enthusiasts, and clients what is undoubtedly the rarest Day-Date ever made. While it is true that this iconic model has been produced exclusively from precious materials, there is one notable exception. In 1955, even before the official launch of the model, Rolex wanted to test the potential of this ambitious “Day-Date Project” and decided to produce five pieces in stainless steel. Identified with reference number 6511, engraved between the lugs as usual and marked with serial numbers ranging from 99272 to 99277, all five were destined for Spanish dealers with the intent to remain private. Fortunately, things turned out differently. One of these remarkable pieces, the very first ever produced, dating back to the third quarter of 1955, was initially acquired by a Spanish private collector who cherished it for decades. It was later sold and became part of John Goldberger’s esteemed private collection, where it stayed for many years. Now, after all this time, he has decided to share this true treasure with the world. This first steel Day-Date to officially appear in the auction world is the very essence of the Day-Date, with its 36mm case, fluted bezel, and the celebrated riveted Oyster bracelet—synonymous with reliability and durability, qualities for which Rolex is universally celebrated. The dial, originally a deep black gilt, has aged into a rare and fascinating chocolate brown, a unique chromatic transformation that enhances its distinctiveness. Its features make it not only an extraordinary piece of watchmaking history but also a work of art without equal. This rare piece is also featured in Pucci Papaleo’s book, Day-Date – The Presidential Rolex, on pages 100-101, as the opening highlight of the chapter that chronicles the story of this legendary model. After all these years, this represents an unmissable opportunity for collectors: the rarest Day-Date, from the most iconic model, from the most legendary maison.