Rolex Day-Date President, 18k Gold, Ferrite Dial, ref. 18078, 1988

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

A Very Rare Rolex Day-Date President Model ref: 18078 in 18k Yellow Gold with a Rarely Seen Ferrite Dial, A Complete Set with Box and Paperwork and ALL The Rolex Assets - An Incredible Opportunity To Purchase a Rare Watch in Superb Condition, 1988 The Rolex Day-Date 18078, often revered as a classic symbol of luxury and precision, marks an important chapter in Rolex's storied history. Introduced in the late 1970s, this watch is part of the esteemed Day-Date series, which originally debuted in 1956. The Day-Date was groundbreaking for being the first wristwatch to display both the date and the day of the week spelt out in full. The 18078 model, crafted in solid gold, quickly became synonymous with success and elegance. Featuring a unique “bark finish” on its bezel and centre bracelet links, it offered a distinctive aesthetic that stood out among its peers. The watch was powered by the reliable Caliber 3055 movement, equipped with a quickset feature for changing the date. Favoured by influential figures and leaders worldwide, the Rolex Day-Date 18078 remains a coveted piece among watch collectors for its timeless design and historical significance, reflecting the pinnacle of Rolex’s craftsmanship. What's on Offer We are delighted to offer this extremely rare Rolex Day-Date President in 18k gold. Beyond its stunning appearance, the texture and tactility of this watch are something that can only be appreciated when it’s in your hand. The dial is undoubtedly the main attraction of this watch. Crafted from ferrite (a ceramic compound with a beautiful marbled texture reminiscent of a deep, blue ocean), these dials are incredibly rare and in high demand from collectors around the globe. This is a wonderful example, featuring a thin, lightning-shaped vein running diagonally across the dial. These veins occur naturally within ferrite stones, meaning identical examples can be found, having been cut from the same section of the same stone. Under a microscope, the lettering shows no sign of distress or cracking. The dial furniture is opulent, as one would expect, boasting applied gold Roman numerals, a day wheel at 12 o'clock, a date wheel with cyclops at 3 o'clock and elegant stick hands. Encasing it all is a sapphire crystal and a decadent 18k gold case . Upon inspecting the movement, we found that the case back has only been opened once, indicated by a single marking left by the watchmaker from whom we acquired the watch. On that occasion, the watch was serviced. The bamboo textured bezel contributes to what can only be described as an exquisite watch head. To complete the picture, the watch is paired with its original 18k gold President bracelet with bark textured central links . The bracelet shows no signs of stretching or sagging and is as comfortable to wear as it would have been over 35 years ago. Overall, this Rolex Day-Date President is incredibly well preserved (near new old stock condition) and is provided with its original outer box and beautiful inner leather box with buckle detail. Inside, you'll find a wealth of original paperwork, including the punch papers and the original notepad with its refill pad and calendar inserts. The watch also retains its swing tag , original plastic " wax" seal and even the Rolex handkerchief. This really is the full set.