Rolex Day-Date 18239 'Black Dial - President' - Collector's Piece
The Rolex Day-Date 36 reference 18239: Discreet elegance
The Rolex Day-Date is undoubtedly one of the world's most recognized statement pieces. Legendary TV figures have worn it, including Tony Soprano. One of the best investors, known as the Oracle of Omaha, Warren Buffett, and American President Lyndon B. Johnson, earning it the nickname 'President.' This famous item has become a true symbol of power, success, and timeless style.
The Day-Date, introduced in 1956, made history as the first timepiece to show both the date and the day of the week in full. Over the years, it has become well-known for its extensive range of case materials, dial designs, and highly sought-after 'Stella' dials, which have colorful, lacquered faces.
Discreetly Elegant: The Refined Allure of the Rolex Day-Date 18239
When most people think of the Rolex Day-Date, the image that often springs to mind is its bold, striking, 18K yellow gold appearance. It’s material that perfectly complements the reputation of the watch. But among all Day-Date variations, the Rolex Day-Date 18239, with its sleek black dial, refined 18K white gold case, and classic President bracelet, stands apart as one of the line’s most understated and discreet options.
Understated Authority in White Gold:
The reference 18239 was launched in the late 1980s and manufactured until 2000. The movement used is the caliber 3155, Rolex’s first double quickset movement, which allows you to adjust the date and day independently when setting the watch to the correct day or date. The watch has a refined 36 mm 18k white gold case with the iconic President Bracelet. The 18k white gold case and matte black dial work together to create a sleek but sophisticated appearance. The fluted bezel gives a touch of sparkle without overwhelming the entire design. Once again, a masterclass of Rolex’s ability to blend quiet luxury with an unmistakable identity.
Bracelet Codes & Originality:
The Day-Date is paired with the famous ‘President’ bracelet, which features a concealed crown clasp, giving the watch a more refined and elegant appearance.
Each Rolex bracelet features a code indicating its production year up to 2010, which helps to confirm whether it matches the watch case. At Steiner Maastricht, we carefully assess this detail and aim to offer watches with matching, period-correct bracelets.
The bracelet on this piece is stamped with the code ‘S3’, dating it to March 1994. Interestingly, the watch itself was first sold in December 1993. This slight discrepancy was not unusual for the time, as bracelets could still be ordered separately from the watch case. It’s likely that the original owner purchased the bracelet later and had it fitted afterward.
18k Gold Hallmarks:
The entire watch is crafted from solid 18kt white gold. Both the case and the bracelet are correctly stamped with the appropriate gold hallmarks, confirming the authenticity and precious metal content. These stamps are an important detail for collectors, offering reassurance of the watch's quality and originality.
Original Matte Sleek Dial:
At the heart of this Day-Date elegance lies its classic black index dial, accented by a subtle Roman minute track. The matte finish gives the dial a more subtle feel. What truly sets this dial apart is its original tritium lume, present on both the dial and handset. The tritium has developed a warm, pumpkin-colored patina, giving the watch a more vintage charm that can only be earned with time.
The dial retains all the signature elements, the full day display at 12 o’clock and the date at 3 o’clock, magnified by Rolex’s iconic cyclops lens. The day disk is in English, and it is available in multiple languages.
The condition:
One of the most important aspects to consider when buying a preloved watch is its condition. Something we have shed light on before is feeling the watch unpolished and keeping the watch untouched, valuing originality, and the signs of natural wear and tear.
Given that the watch is in overall good condition for its age, we have decided to keep the case completely untouched. Preserving its original condition maintains authenticity and collector’s value.
Collector’s Set Details:
The watch is offered as a complete set, originally sold for the first time in Germany at Wempe. It comes with the original warranty papers, booklets, and the box. Something that is very rare to see.
Shop our current collection of Rolex Day-Date’s here.
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Steiner Maastricht