Rolex Day-Date Ref. 118238: The Collector's Regret and Evolving Tastes

indignantdenial · 2024-03-14T08:48:41Z

Explore the collector's dilemma of selling a Rolex Day-Date Ref. 118238. Indignantdenial shares his regrets, prompting a community discussion on evolving tastes and reacquiring watches.

indignantdenial

WPS member · Rolex forum

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In a candid post, WatchProSite's indignantdenial opens up about the complex emotions surrounding the sale of his Rolex Day-Date Ref. 118238. He invites the community to reflect on the universal collector's dilemma: the regret of parting with a cherished timepiece, even when priorities shift. This discussion explores whether such a feeling is a natural part of an evolving collecting journey or a signal to reacquire a beloved watch.

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My former 118238. Sometimes I wonder whether this was worth parting with; often this occurs when I'm a little bit tired. Despite its faults, the watch was still generally wonderful. So then I regret having sold it. With where I am now, it still makes some sense as my priorities shifted. But I want to ask you some questions.

Have you felt the above feeling often? And, would you get the watch back, or do you think you can feel this feeling and safely know that it was a step in your collecting journey as your tastes evolved and needs changed? Anyway, I have a few good photos of this watch, so maybe I will share them over time!

About the Rolex Day-Date 36 Ref. 118238

The Day-Date reference 118238 represents a significant evolution within the Day-Date lineage, succeeding earlier 36mm yellow gold models. This reference maintained the classic 36mm case size, a dimension long associated with the Day-Date, while incorporating updated internal mechanisms and subtle aesthetic refinements. It continued the tradition of offering both the day of the week and the date aperture, a hallmark of the model since its inception. This particular configuration in yellow gold with a champagne diamond dial is a traditional and recognizable expression of the model.

This reference features a 36mm Oyster case crafted from 18K yellow gold, paired with a fluted bezel, also in 18K yellow gold. The watch is powered by the automatic caliber 3155, known for its double quickset function for both day and date. It is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers a water resistance of 100 meters. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.

For collectors, the 118238 is a key reference that bridges earlier Day-Date generations with more contemporary iterations. Its enduring 36mm size appeals to those who prefer the traditional proportions of the model. The combination of yellow gold and a champagne dial with diamond hour markers is a classic and sought-after configuration, embodying the enduring appeal of the Day-Date as a dress watch. It is often appreciated for its robust construction and the practicality of its complications.

Specifications

Caliber: 3155

Case: 18K Yellow Gold

Diameter: 36 mm

Dial: Champagne with Diamond Hour Markers

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

There are two distinct types of regret when selling watches: those sold at market price that are now significantly more expensive, and those rare, irreplaceable variants in superb original condition that are nearly impossible to find or verify today.
Attempting to reacquire a previously sold watch often mirrors trying to rekindle an old relationship—it rarely works out in the long term, as the original reasons for parting ways often resurface.
The decision to sell a watch, even a desirable one like the Rolex Day-Date, usually stems from a lack of deep personal connection or 'craziness' for the piece; reacquiring it might lead to the same dissatisfaction.
Some watches, like specific Rolex Submariner or GMT-Master references in partial gold, have seen significant price increases, highlighting the potential financial regret for collectors who sold or didn't acquire them earlier.
Many collectors have experienced the 'painful' realization that watches they let go, such as a Rolex Yacht-Master, have become prohibitively expensive to reacquire.
Rebuying a watch, like an Explorer I, after selling the original can still leave a sense of loss for the initial piece, especially if it held an underestimated personal meaning.

The Discussion

amanico

Mar 14, 2024

There are maybe 10 watches I regret having parted with, in my whole life. Most of those I parted with, no, because as you said, it was a step in my journey.

Among the ten I let go, I tried to buy them again. Example: The Rolex Yacht Master. Some I cannot, because they went too high in price. Painful... Best, Nicolas

indignantdenial

Mar 14, 2024

Thanks for being honest.

It is painful when you try and realize you can't. Sometimes you don't know what you had until it's gone--not always--but sometimes. Cheers.

amanico

Mar 14, 2024

Absolutely. Like in life, in general, you have to loose something or someone to really feel the miss...

Ajas

Mar 14, 2024

Thank you for posting. Absolutely agree, when priorities changes all perspective shifts. I have paired with few , instead of selling I gifted them to closest family members so they can enjoy and better understand my hobby.

indignantdenial

Mar 14, 2024

That's a very nice idea, I really like what you did!

Ajas

Mar 14, 2024

At least i can still admire them from distance!