When the Rolex Day-Date was introduced in 1956, it stood alone as the brand’s only truly complicated wristwatch. Hard to imagine today, but despite several earlier attempts at more complex timepieces, Rolex had struggled to convince buyers that practicality and prestige could coexist in a single watch.

Everything changed when President Dwight D. Eisenhower was seen wearing a Rolex Day-Date. From that moment on, the model became forever associated with power, success and understated authority — earning the nickname “The President.”

Presented here is a reference 18238 dating to 1996 a desirable double quickset example fitted with an especially attractive and uncommon dial configuration. The watch comes in excellent overall condition, retaining a strong case with thick, even lugs that show only light polishing from the past, alongside minimal signs of wear. The fluted bezel remains crisp and well-defined, framing a dial that is without doubt the star of the show.

Its matte finish shifts beautifully between shades of deep blue and soft purple depending on the light, while the applied yellow gold Roman numerals evoke the charm of the celebrated “Buckley” dial aesthetic. Together with the warm yellow gold case, the result is both playful and elegant — exactly the sort of detail collectors quietly look for.

The watch is fitted with an English day disc and paired with a lovely Bulang & Sons leather strap that gives the watch a slightly more relaxed and contemporary character. Fully serviced by our watchmaker, it is ready to be worn and enjoyed for many years to come.

For the collector who prefers their gold Rolex with a touch of individuality!

Specifications:

Rolex Day-Date reference 18238
36mm 18k yellow gold case
Purple Dial with applied Roman Numerals
Serial T40xxxx dating to 1996
Double quick-set movement
English day-disc
Bulang and sons leather strap
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping

Rolex Day-Date 18238 Purple Roman Numerals Dial

Rolex Day-Date 18238 Purple Roman Numerals Dial

Before/after