A RARE MEN'S ROLEX 18K YELLOW GOLD AUTOMATIC WATCH.
VINTAGE DAY-DATE WITH ORIGINAL PAPERWORK.

Brand: Rolex
Model: Day Date (President)
Case reference: 1803
Year: 1965
Movement: Automatic
Dial: Pie Pan champagne sunburst, gilt applied numerals with tritium applied dots, gilt sword hands with tritium applied, gilt centre seconds hand, date aperture at the three o'clock position with a champagne calendar disk, day aperture at the twelve o'clock position with a champagne disk in English
Material: 18k yellow gold
Signed: Dial, movement, case
Dimension: 36mm
Accessories: Original paperwork from Honk Kong from 1965

The Rolex Day-Date, known as the “President,” is one of the most prestigious models in the Rolex lineup, renowned for its association with world leaders, influential figures, and collectors. Launched in 1956, the Day-Date was the first wristwatch to display both the day of the week in full and the date, solidifying its status as a groundbreaking innovation in horology.

This Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1803, produced in 1965, is a quintessential example of mid-century Rolex craftsmanship and luxury, presented in 18k yellow gold with its rare original paperwork from Hong Kong, making it a significant piece for both collectors and enthusiasts alike.

This Day-Date Ref. 1803 is characterized by its stunning Pie Pan champagne sunburst dial, a hallmark design of the era. The Pie Pan dial gets its name from the sloped edges, reminiscent of an inverted pie pan, which adds a sense of depth and dimension to the dial. The champagne sunburst finish enhances the luxurious appearance, catching the light beautifully and offering a subtle radiance.

The dial features gilt applied numerals with tritium luminous dots at each hour marker, and the gilt sword hands are also filled with tritium, giving the watch excellent legibility in low-light conditions. The gilt center seconds hand and the day and date apertures—both with matching champagne disks—complete the refined aesthetic of this vintage timepiece.

One of the most distinctive features of the Day-Date is the dual complications for which it is named. The day window at 12 o’clock spells out the day of the week in full, while the date window at 3 o’clock, magnified by the Cyclops lens, enhances readability. The day disk is displayed in English, in keeping with the classic and elegant style of the time.