Make: Rolex
Model: Day-Date
Reference: 18038
Year: 1980
Movement: Automatic calibre
Box and papers: Original Rolex box & Watch Register Certificate
Case: 36mm Oyster case in 18k yellow gold
Dial: Champagne
Bracelet/Strap: New custom made blue alligator strap, spare cognac unworn strap included
Condition: Vintage, excellent
Serviced: Complete overhaul service in 2025, unworn since
Warranty: 6 month RHW warranty
The Ultimate Statement of Success in Solid Gold
The Rolex Day-Date sits at the very top of the Rolex hierarchy.
Introduced in 1956, it was the first wristwatch to display both the day of the week spelled out in full and the date. More importantly, it was crafted exclusively in precious metals, setting it apart from every other model in the Rolex catalogue.
Over the decades, the Day-Date became known simply as “the President”, a watch synonymous with power, influence and achievement.
Reference 18038, produced from the late 1970s into the 1980s, represents a key evolution of the model. It introduced the quickset date function, making it far more practical for everyday use, while retaining the classic proportions and unmistakable presence of earlier Day-Date models.
This example from 1980 captures that era perfectly. Solid 18 carat yellow gold, classic proportions, and a level of presence that only a Day-Date delivers.
Why You’ll Love It
• Solid 18 carat yellow gold case and bezel
• Reference 18038 from 1980
• Rolex automatic movement with quickset date
• Fully serviced
• Immaculate case condition
• Supplied with original Rolex box
• Fitted on a new custom made blue leather strap
• Additional brand new cognac leather strap included
• Unworn since service
This is a slightly different take on the Day-Date.
Traditionally seen on a President bracelet, this example has been paired with a high quality custom leather strap, giving it a more relaxed, contemporary feel while still retaining all the prestige of solid gold.
The inclusion of both blue and cognac straps allows you to completely change the character of the watch depending on how you want to wear it.
Condition is excellent, with a particularly sharp case that has been very well preserved.
Iconic Status
The watch of presidents, power and legacy.
The Rolex Day-Date earned its nickname “the President” after being worn by Dwight D. Eisenhower and later by numerous world leaders. It quickly became associated with those at the very top of business, politics and global influence.
Throughout the 20th century, the Day-Date appeared on the wrists of influential figures across multiple worlds. From leaders shaping global decisions to high profile figures in entertainment and industry, it became a symbol of having arrived.
Unlike other Rolex models, the Day-Date was always reserved for precious metals only. That exclusivity, combined with its bold day display, gave it a presence unlike anything else in the catalogue.
Today it remains one of the most recognisable statements of success in watchmaking. A watch that does not need to try to stand out, because it always has.
Ready to Make It Yours?
Visit us at our new home inside Martin & Martin, 30 High Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey.
This Rolex Day-Date reference 18038 from 1980 is offered in excellent condition, fully serviced and unworn since, supplied with its original Rolex box and two brand new leather straps.
Price £8,750.
• PayPal or PayPal guest checkout online, allowing you to use your PayPal account or any major debit or credit card
• Bank transfers
• Secure email payment links
• Apple Pay and all major debit and credit cards accepted in store
• In person card payments available in store and by private appointment
• Book a private appointment via our website
Solid gold. Timeless presence. Undeniable status.
Make: Rolex
Model: Day-Date
Reference: 18038
Year: 1980
Movement: Automatic calibre
Box and papers: Original Rolex box & Watch Register Certificate
Case: 36mm Oyster case in 18k yellow gold
Dial: Champagne
Bracelet/Strap: New custom made blue alligator strap, spare cognac unworn strap included
Condition: Vintage, excellent
Serviced: Complete overhaul service in 2025, unworn since
Warranty: 6 month RHW warranty
The Ultimate Statement of Success in Solid Gold
The Rolex Day-Date sits at the very top of the Rolex hierarchy.
Introduced in 1956, it was the first wristwatch to display both the day of the week spelled out in full and the date. More importantly, it was crafted exclusively in precious metals, setting it apart from every other model in the Rolex catalogue.
Over the decades, the Day-Date became known simply as “the President”, a watch synonymous with power, influence and achievement.
Reference 18038, produced from the late 1970s into the 1980s, represents a key evolution of the model. It introduced the quickset date function, making it far more practical for everyday use, while retaining the classic proportions and unmistakable presence of earlier Day-Date models.
This example from 1980 captures that era perfectly. Solid 18 carat yellow gold, classic proportions, and a level of presence that only a Day-Date delivers.
Why You’ll Love It
• Solid 18 carat yellow gold case and bezel
• Reference 18038 from 1980
• Rolex automatic movement with quickset date
• Fully serviced
• Immaculate case condition
• Supplied with original Rolex box
• Fitted on a new custom made blue leather strap
• Additional brand new cognac leather strap included
• Unworn since service
This is a slightly different take on the Day-Date.
Traditionally seen on a President bracelet, this example has been paired with a high quality custom leather strap, giving it a more relaxed, contemporary feel while still retaining all the prestige of solid gold.
The inclusion of both blue and cognac straps allows you to completely change the character of the watch depending on how you want to wear it.
Condition is excellent, with a particularly sharp case that has been very well preserved.
Iconic Status
The watch of presidents, power and legacy.
The Rolex Day-Date earned its nickname “the President” after being worn by Dwight D. Eisenhower and later by numerous world leaders. It quickly became associated with those at the very top of business, politics and global influence.
Throughout the 20th century, the Day-Date appeared on the wrists of influential figures across multiple worlds. From leaders shaping global decisions to high profile figures in entertainment and industry, it became a symbol of having arrived.
Unlike other Rolex models, the Day-Date was always reserved for precious metals only. That exclusivity, combined with its bold day display, gave it a presence unlike anything else in the catalogue.
Today it remains one of the most recognisable statements of success in watchmaking. A watch that does not need to try to stand out, because it always has.
Ready to Make It Yours?
Visit us at our new home inside Martin & Martin, 30 High Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey.
This Rolex Day-Date reference 18038 from 1980 is offered in excellent condition, fully serviced and unworn since, supplied with its original Rolex box and two brand new leather straps.
Price £8,750.
• PayPal or PayPal guest checkout online, allowing you to use your PayPal account or any major debit or credit card
• Bank transfers
• Secure email payment links
• Apple Pay and all major debit and credit cards accepted in store
• In person card payments available in store and by private appointment
• Book a private appointment via our website
Solid gold. Timeless presence. Undeniable status.
