Description
Case:
The thick, sharp, and even 18K yellow gold case is excellent, showing only very light wear from use. The sharp 18K yellow gold fluted bezel is also in excellent condition, showing only very light wear from use.
Dial:
The glossy black diamond string dial is excellent, showing little if any wear for its age. The tritium handset is also in excellent condition with lume that has aged to a warm, creamy hue. The hands appear to be original to the watch.
Bracelet:
The 22-link 18K yellow gold president bracelet is excellent, showing only very light stretch for its age.
Accessories:
None.
📖 About This Reference
The Rolex Day-Date reference 18238, part of the Cellini collection, represents a significant evolution in the Day-Date lineage, distinguished by its introduction of the double quickset function. This enhancement allowed for independent and rapid adjustment of both the day and date displays, a notable improvement over earlier single quickset models. It maintains the classic Day-Date aesthetic while offering enhanced practicality for daily wearers and collectors.
This reference features a 36mm Oyster case crafted from 18k yellow gold, housing the automatic Caliber 3155. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours and is protected by a sapphire crystal, contributing to its water resistance of 100 meters. The fluted bezel is a signature element, complementing the various dial options available for this model.
For collectors, the 18238 is appealing for its blend of traditional Day-Date design with modern functionality. It sits as a transitional reference, bridging the gap between earlier iterations and more contemporary models, making it a desirable piece for those seeking a classic Rolex with improved usability. Variants include different dial colors and hour marker configurations.