Rolex
1981 Rolex Day-Date 18K WG (Ref. 18039) Blue Vignette Diamond Dial
The Rolex Day-Date is one of the most iconic and beautiful watches in the Rolex catalog. The Rolex Day-Date earned the nickname "President" after it was rumored that President Dwight Eisenhower wore one, but Eisenhower actually wore a Rolex 18K yellow gold Oyster-Perpetual Datejust, which Rolex gifted to him in 1953. However, the nickname "President" is quite fitting for the Day-Date, as Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Ford, Reagan, Nixon, and Roosevelt all wore the Rolex Day-Date. Apart from its executive affiliation, the Day-Date is a symbol of status and luxury, only produced in highly refined precious metals, including 18K yellow, white, and rose gold, and also platinum, featuring both the day and date complications within the movement.
Rolex finds the perfect balance between luxury and functionality, and this 1981 Rolex Day-Date ref. 18039 blue vignette dial with factory diamonds is proof of that. There is always rigorous approval testing for any materials used by Rolex; therefore, only the finest materials are used to make Rolex watches. The vignette dials are beautifully crafted "Stella" or lacquered dials that feature incredible dimension by contrasting deep and vibrant colors. The diamond dial Rolex Day-Date is perfect for the enthusiast who has an appreciation for luxurious watchmaking with subtlety.
SPECS
| Stock # | RLXDD18039BVD | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Day-Date | |
| Model | 18039 | |
| Serial | 65XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | 18K White Gold | |
| Dial | Blue Vignette W/ Factory Diamonds | |
| Millimeters | 36 | |
| Strap | Rolex 8385 18K WG President Bracelet |
CASE & BRACELET
The 18K white gold case remains remarkably well-preserved, showing extremely crisp edges with thick dimensions throughout. The 18K white gold fluted bezel also remains in excellent condition, displaying sharp angles and edges, with no notable wear present. The case retains its original two-dot white gold twin-lock crown, which has achieved a warm color from age. The era-correct 18K white gold Rolex 8385 President bracelet dates slightly later than the watch and retains 23 links that exhibit nominal stretch and will fit up to a 7.25-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The stunningly gorgeous and original blue vignette "Stella" lacquered dial with factory diamond markers is simply flawless, with no damage or age present whatsoever. The diamond markers have been inspected for their clarity and remain original to the watch. The tritium lume plots have achieved a lovely cream patina and exhibit no degradation when inspected under UV light. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and show no degradation under UV light inspection. The date wheel is original with "open" 6's and 9's.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.