Rolex Day-Date 18038 Purple Jubilee Dial French Hallmarks, 1979

Dealer description — Bulang & Sons

Introduced in 1956, the Rolex Day-Date was the world’s first waterproof, self-winding chronometer wristwatch to display both the date and the day of the week—spelled out in full—across two separate windows. By 1977, Rolex updated the Day-Date with the introduction of the reference 18038, featuring the improved “single quickset” movement. This allowed the wearer to adjust the date independently of the time, alongside the transition from acrylic to sapphire crystal. This particular example stands out with a lovely, full case and crisp fluted bezel. Even better, it features small French hallmarks—subtle but important details indicating precious metal control marks for pieces destined for the French market at the time. The c18k yellow gold case remains in stunning condition, with the factory lines and curves still present. The President bracelet (ref. 8385) remains in strong condition, with tight links, solid end links, and a concealed clasp—exactly how you want to see it. It currently fits wrists up to approximately 18 cm. The dial is where things get especially interesting. This piece features a very cool “Jubilee” dial, with a repeating “Rolex Rolex” motif that creates a subtle three-dimensional effect. The tone leans toward a rare purple hue, combined with applied stick markers, gold printing, and a warm beige patina on the hour plots—giving it real depth and character. Interestingly, Rolex recently reintroduced a similar Jubilee-style motif on the Rolex Oyster Perpetual models, though in a more playful and colorful execution—making this vintage example feel even more relevant today. Adding to the charm, the day disc is in French, perfectly matching the French import hallmarks on the case. The original punched guarantee paper confirms a sale in Paris, tying the whole story together. The watch is accompanied by its original leather Rolex inner box, a polishing cloth, and a translation booklet—nice extras that complete the set. It has also been fully checked amd regulated by our watchmaker and is ready for many years of wear. A proper rare one — Jubilee dial with that purple hue. Don’t wait ! Specifications: Rolex Day-Date Reference 18038 36mm 18k yellow gold case, sapphire crystal Turned to purple Jubilee dial Serial 590xxxx dating to 1979 Small French import hallmarks on the case-back French day-disc Yellow gold President bracelet with concealed clasp Rolex Day-Date box, booklet, polishing cloth Punched guarantee paper stating sale in Paris, France Fully checked and regulated by our watchmaker