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The Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1803 is one of the most important and enduring luxury watch designs ever created. Introduced in the late 1950s, the Day-Date was the first wristwatch to display both the day and date spelled out in full, and it quickly became synonymous with success, achievement, and timeless elegance.
This 1965 example stands out immediately thanks to its exceptionally sharp, well-preserved 18K gold case. Early Day-Dates like this are becoming increasingly difficult to find in honest, unpolished condition, and the case here retains strong definition throughout, giving the watch real presence on the wrist.
Paired with a classic champagne dial, this reference perfectly captures the understated confidence that made the Day-Date such an icon. It is elegant without being flashy, and unmistakably Rolex in its design language.
Key Features
Reference 1803
Year 1965
Rolex calibre 1555 automatic movement
Solid 18K gold 36mm case
Fluted gold bezel
Champagne dial
Acrylic crystal
New handmade leather strap
Watch only with Watts On Watches documentation
A Word on Condition
Condition is the defining feature of this watch. The case is razor sharp, with crisp edges and strong proportions that are rarely seen on examples of this age. The fluted bezel remains well defined, and the overall case geometry has clearly not been compromised by excessive polishing.
The dial presents cleanly and evenly, complementing the warmth of the gold case beautifully. Taken as a whole, this is a Day-Date that wears exactly as Rolex intended, with weight, presence and refinement.
Collector Insight
Early Day-Dates powered by the calibre 1555 represent the purest expression of the model. These watches predate the quickset era and retain the charm and mechanical character that many collectors actively seek today.
For seasoned collectors, case condition is everything, particularly on solid gold references. Gold is soft, and many examples have lost their original shape over decades of polishing. Finding a 1960s Day-Date with this level of case integrity places it firmly into collector-grade territory, even without box and papers.
This is the kind of watch that rewards close inspection. The more you look, the better it gets.
Why Buy This Watch
Early and highly desirable Day-Date reference
Exceptional razor-sharp 18K gold case
Classic champagne dial and fluted bezel
Increasingly scarce in this condition
A true icon of Rolex design and status
This is a proper vintage Day-Date, defined by condition, presence and authenticity. An outstanding example for anyone looking to own a piece of Rolex history in its most elegant form.
Every watch we sell is fully inspected and professionally serviced to meet our exacting standards. All purchases include bespoke Watts On Watches packaging, full purchase documentation, and a 12-month Watts On Watches warranty.