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Rolex Day-Date References

The Rolex Day-Date is one of the most prestigious and recognizable luxury watches ever created. Introduced in 1956, it became the first wristwatch to display both the date and the day of the week spelled out in full. Immediately embraced by world leaders, entrepreneurs, and cultural icons, the Day-Date earned its legendary nickname: “The President.”

Crafted exclusively in 18k yellow gold, white gold, Everose gold, or platinum, the Day-Date has always represented Rolex’s highest expression of status, precision, and craftsmanship. Its signature President bracelet, elegant case proportions, and extensive range of luxurious dial options make it a longstanding symbol of achievement and refined taste.

Current Production

The modern Day-Date lineup (references 1282XX and 2282XX series) showcases Rolex’s most advanced watchmaking innovations. Available in 36 mm or 40 mm sizes, the latest generation features refined case profiles, upgraded movement technology, and some of the most exquisite dials in the entire Rolex catalog — including enamel, meteorite, ombré, mother-of-pearl, and fully gem-set options.

Key Current Day-Date References:

Day-Date 40 (40 mm)

228238 — 18k yellow gold
228235 — 18k Everose gold
228239 — 18k white gold
228206 — Platinum
228349RBR / 228235RBR — Diamond-bezel & gem-set configurations
Green ombré, Eisenkiesel, Mother-of-Pearl, Meteorite, and baguette-diamond dials

Day-Date 36 (36 mm)

128238 — Yellow gold
128235 — Everose
128239 — White gold
128206 — Platinum
128349RBR / 128385RBR — Factory diamond settings
Fluted-motif, ombré, and decorative lacquer dials

These references represent the most refined, prestigious, and technically advanced Day-Date models Rolex has ever produced.

Discontinued

Discontinued Day-Date models remain highly desirable for their historical significance and distinctive design features. Each generation offers unique characteristics — from vintage acrylic crystals to classic serif dials to transitional bracelet styles.

Notable Discontinued Day-Date References:

Day-Date 40 (previous generation)

218238 / 218235 / 218239 — Known for larger, heavier cases
218206 — Platinum with ice-blue dial

Day-Date 36

118238 / 118239 / 118235 — Modern classics with the Caliber 3155
18238 / 18239 / 18248 — Highly collectible “double quickset” references
18038 / 1803 — Vintage icons with acrylic crystals and pie-pan dials
18039B / 18049 — Rare white gold & platinum versions
Rainbow, Stella, & hard-stone dials — Among the most collectible Day-Dates of all time

Vintage Day-Dates are among the strongest investment pieces in Rolex history, cherished for their craftsmanship and unique dial variations.

Rolex Day-Date Specifications

The Day-Date is the pinnacle of Rolex luxury and engineering, built with the brand’s finest materials, finishing techniques, and movement technology.

Materials

The Day-Date is crafted only in precious metals:

Available Materials:

18k yellow gold
18k white gold
18k Everose gold
950 platinum
Diamond-set bezels and bracelets (select references)
Meteorite, enamel, hard-stone, and ombré dials

No steel models are produced — exclusivity is part of the Day-Date legacy.

Movement

Current Day-Date models are powered by Rolex’s next-generation movements:

Day-Date 40 — Caliber 3255

Day-Date 36 — Caliber 3255

Movement Highlights:

70-hour power reserve
Chronergy escapement
Parachrom hairspring with anti-magnetic properties
Paraflex shock absorbers
Instantaneous day & date switching
COSC-certified + Rolex Superlative Chronometer testing
Highly efficient automatic winding system

Earlier references used the Caliber 3155 (one of Rolex’s most beloved movements), and vintage models used the 1555 & 1556.

Dial

The Day-Date collection offers the most diverse and luxurious dial selection in the Rolex lineup.

Dial Features & Options:

Diamond hour markers
Baguette-diamond options
Mother-of-pearl
Meteorite
Green ombré
Eisenkiesel
Stella-inspired lacquer dials
Hard-stone dials (onyx, lapis, turquoise, etc.)
Roman, baton, Arabic, or diamond-set markers
Day-of-week window at 12 o’clock
Cyclops-magnified date at 3 o’clock

This range allows collectors to choose a Day-Date that truly reflects their personal style.

Watch Bands

President Bracelet

The Day-Date’s signature feature — created exclusively for this model.

Semi-circular three-piece links
Exceptional comfort and drape
Crownclasp concealed clasp
Available in gold or platinum
Diamond-set versions exist for select references

Leather Strap (Vintage & Select Modern References)

Seen in earlier generations or special editions

The President bracelet remains one of Rolex’s most recognizable design elements.

Sizes

The Day-Date is offered in two primary sizes:

Day-Date 40

Diameter: 40 mm
Thickness: approx. 12 mm
Lug-to-lug: approx. 47 mm
Lug width: 20 mm

Day-Date 36

Diameter: 36 mm
Thickness: approx. 12 mm
Lug-to-lug: approx. 44 mm
Lug width: 20 mm

Both sizes provide elegant wrist presence with refined proportions.

Water Resistance

The Day-Date offers:

100 meters (330 ft) water resistance
Solid Oyster case construction
Twinlock screw-down crown

Perfect for everyday wear despite its luxurious materials.

Power Reserve

Modern Day-Date models deliver:

70 hours of power reserve
Earlier generations: 48 hours (Cal. 3155)

Rolex Day-Date Price

Day-Date prices vary significantly based on material, size, dial configuration, factory diamond settings, and rarity.

Retail Price (Approx.)

Day-Date 36: $34,000–$60,000+
Day-Date 40: $39,000–$70,000+
Platinum: $60,000–$120,000+
Diamond-set pieces: $70,000–$250,000+

Pre-Owned Prices

Modern 36 mm: $20,000–$45,000
Modern 40 mm: $30,000–$60,000
Vintage pieces: $10,000–$25,000
Collector dials: $25,000–$150,000+

Rare Day-Dates — especially Stella, hard-stone, or factory diamond versions — can reach six-figure values.

Expert Opinion

“The Rolex Day-Date is more than a watch — it is a symbol. Few timepieces in history carry the prestige, heritage, and visual impact of the ‘President.’ With precious-metal construction, unmatched dial variety, and cutting-edge movement technology, the Day-Date sits at the top of Rolex’s catalog as the ultimate expression of luxury and achievement.”

Why Choose Us

At ECI Jewelers, we specialize in sourcing and offering the finest Day-Date watches — from modern full-set pieces to rare vintage treasures. Every watch undergoes comprehensive authentication, condition evaluation, and expert inspection. With competitive pricing, free insured shipping, and unparalleled customer service, ECI Jewelers is a trusted destination for one of Rolex’s most prestigious models.

Sell Your Rolex Day-Date

If you are ready to sell or trade your Day-Date, ECI Jewelers provides secure, transparent, top-market valuations. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or liquidating part of your collection, our experts ensure a smooth, confidential, and respectful selling experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular luxury watch brands?

The most sought-after luxury watch brands include Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and OMEGA, each known for exceptional craftsmanship and enduring prestige. Rolex continues to hold the strongest global recognition and demand, while Cartier, Tudor, Breitling, and Panerai also maintain loyal followings among collectors and enthusiasts.

At ECI Jewelers, we specialize in these leading brands—curated for authenticity, condition, and long-term value.

How can I tell if a luxury watch is authentic?

Authentic luxury watches display flawless finishing, smooth mechanical operation, consistent engraving, and proper weight. Counterfeits often fail in these areas.

The best way to ensure authenticity is to buy only from reputable dealers like ECI Jewelers, where every timepiece is carefully inspected by our in-house experts and sold with full transparency. Many of our watches come as complete sets including the original box, papers, and documentation verifying authenticity.

What’s the difference between new and pre-owned luxury watches?

New luxury watches are sold through authorized retailers with full factory warranties but often come with waitlists and premium pricing—especially for high-demand models like the Rolex Daytona or Patek Philippe Nautilus.

Pre-owned luxury watches, on the other hand, provide access to both current and discontinued models at more competitive prices. When purchased from trusted experts like ECI Jewelers, pre-owned watches offer verified authenticity, immediate availability, and potential appreciation in value over time—without compromising quality or prestige.

What should I look for when buying a luxury watch?

When investing in a fine timepiece, consider the following:

Authenticity: Always ensure the watch has been professionally verified.
Condition: Check for minimal wear, original parts, and recent servicing.
Complete Documentation: A watch with its original box and papers carries greater collector and resale value.
Lifestyle Fit: Choose a design that complements your daily use—such as a Rolex Submariner for versatility or a Cartier Tank for formal elegance.
Reputable Source: Buy from an established dealer like ECI Jewelers, where every watch is authenticated, serviced, and backed by industry expertise.

Can luxury watches be good investments?

Yes—certain luxury watches have historically shown strong value retention and appreciation, particularly limited-production models or discontinued references from brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet.

While not every watch increases in price, timepieces with proven heritage, technical innovation, and market scarcity often perform well as tangible assets. At ECI Jewelers, we help collectors identify models with the highest investment potential while ensuring each purchase offers both emotional and financial value.