Rolex Day-Date 1803 Khanjar Sigma Champagne Dial, 1974

Dealer description — Bulang & Sons

The Rolex Day-Date, introduced in 1956, marked a significant milestone in watchmaking as the world’s first wristwatch to display both the date and the day of the week fully spelled out on the dial. Positioned at the very top of the Rolex catalogue, the Day-Date has exclusively been produced in precious metals — including 18k yellow, white, or rose gold, as well as platinum — reinforcing its status as the brand’s ultimate flagship model! The present watch is a classic 36 mm 18k yellow gold reference 1803, featuring a beautifully preserved case and crisp fluted bezel. While the watch itself is undeniably elegant, the true highlight of this example is undoubtedly its dial!! It features what is arguably the quintessential Day-Date configuration: a sunburst champagne dial with contrasting black printed text, enhanced by a Sigma designation at six o’clock — denoting that the hands and hour markers are crafted from gold. Most notably, the dial proudly bears a rare red Omani Khanjar emblem, adding a fascinating layer of historical significance and collectability. For those less familiar with the emblem, the Omani Khanjar is a traditional ceremonial dagger and one of the most important national symbols of Oman, representing pride, heritage, and status. From the 1970s onward, Qaboos bin Said al Said became widely known for commissioning specially ordered watches adorned with the royal Khanjar crest, either printed on the dial or engraved on the case back. These pieces were typically gifted to high-ranking military officers, diplomats, loyal advisers, and prominent figures within the Sultan’s inner circle, giving them both exceptional rarity and strong historical importance. Many of these special commissions were supplied through Asprey of New Bond Street in London, the Sultan’s official jeweller during the era. Today, Asprey-delivered Khanjar-signed Rolex watches are regarded among the most collectible and desirable special-order vintage Rolex models ever produced, with well-preserved examples becoming increasingly difficult to source. This elegant Day-Date, together with its slow-set movement, has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and is ready to be enjoyed for many years to come. Specifications: Rolex Day-Date Reference 1803 36mm yellow gold case, plexi crystal Serial 360xxxx dating to 1974 Rare Champagne colour Sigma dial, with red Khanjar English day disc Bulang and sons leather strap Fully serviced by our watchmaker