266 Rolex Very Well Preserved and Iconic, Day-Date, Automatic Wristwatch in Gold, Tiger-eye Dial, Reference 18038

Estimate: €30,000 –⁠ 60,000

Model: Day Date
Reference: 18038
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1980
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 3055
Case N°: 6441967
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case

Rolex has always embraced experimentation and innovation in its creations, using unique and bold materials to craft extraordinary dials. These distinctive designs are now at the center of intense interest from collectors and enthusiasts seeking something rare and remarkable. It doesn’t take an expert to recognize the captivating details of a special dial, and this becomes even more apparent when the entire dial is made from an exceptional material. Rolex has produced iconic models of both the Datejust and Day-Date featuring hard stones like onyx, malachite, lapis lazuli, meteorite, and coral, all of which are highly prized. Among these materials, one of the most admired is the Tiger Eye, which is showcased on this rare example of a Day-Date reference 18 038, crafted entirely in 18k yellow gold. The watch is preserved in exceptional condition, with crisp and deeply engraved hallmarks under the lugs. The striking Tiger Eye dial on this timepiece is particularly notable for its rarity and the difficulty of its production. Due to the fragile nature of the stone, many of these dials would crack during manufacturing, requiring the skill of a true artisan to handle them. Furthermore, applying the dial to the watch case was an intricate process that demanded the utmost precision from the watchmaker, adding to the production cost and making these models highly desirable among collectors. The delicate Tiger Eye dial features a date aperture at 3 o’clock and a day window at 12 o’clock, with elegant yellow-gold hands and a sweep center second’s hand. Complemented by its original and very rare yellow-gold D’Agosto bresident bracelet.