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This Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1803 is a beautifully characterful vintage example from 1970, offered in the classic 36mm 18k yellow gold case with fluted bezel.
The Day-Date has always been one of Rolex’s most important watches. Produced only in precious metals, it sat at the top of the Rolex catalogue and became instantly recognisable for its combination of day and date displays, elegant proportions and unmistakable wrist presence.
What makes this particular example stand out is the champagne linen dial. Linen dials are highly attractive because they bring texture and depth to what would otherwise be a classic champagne Day-Date layout. The woven finish catches the light in a subtle way, giving the watch a more unusual and collectible look without losing the traditional elegance of the reference.
The 36mm 18k yellow gold case is in very good condition and retains the warm presence expected from a vintage Day-Date. The fluted bezel adds the correct classic Rolex character, while the acrylic crystal gives the watch the softness and charm collectors associate with the Ref. 1803.
Inside is the Rolex calibre 1556 automatic movement, the correct movement for this generation of Day-Date. The watch is currently fitted to a blue handmade leather strap, which works beautifully against the yellow gold case and champagne linen dial. Other strap options are also available.
Key Features
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1803
Year 1970
Rolex calibre 1556 automatic movement
36mm 18k yellow gold case
18k yellow gold fluted bezel
Champagne linen dial
Day and date complication
Acrylic crystal
Blue handmade leather strap
Other strap options available
Sold as watch only
A Word on Condition
This Rolex Day-Date presents very well, with the champagne linen dial being the clear highlight. The dial has a wonderful textured finish that gives the watch far more depth and character than a standard champagne dial, while still retaining the classic Day-Date look.
The 36mm 18k yellow gold case is in very good condition, with strong overall presence and the warmth you want from a vintage gold Rolex. The fluted bezel remains attractive, and the acrylic crystal gives the watch the correct period feel.
The blue handmade leather strap offers a more individual look and brings out the tone of the gold beautifully. It makes the watch feel slightly less formal than a full gold bracelet, while still keeping all the elegance of the Day-Date design.
Accessories / The Set
This watch is sold as watch only, which is typical for vintage timepieces. We place greater value on condition, originality and overall integrity than on whether a box or papers happen to be present.
Many vintage watches have lost their packaging over time, and we do not believe in inflating prices with non-original extras. If a watch does include genuine box and papers, this will always be clearly noted in the description.
All purchases are supplied with bespoke Watts On Watches packaging and full purchase documentation.
Why Buy This Watch
The Rolex Day-Date 1803 is one of the defining vintage Rolex references. It offers everything collectors love about the model: precious metal construction, 36mm proportions, an acrylic crystal, fluted bezel and the classic day and date display.
This example becomes far more interesting thanks to the champagne linen dial. It gives the watch texture, rarity and personality, making it feel more distinctive than a standard champagne dial 1803 while still remaining elegant and highly wearable.
For someone looking for a vintage Rolex Day-Date with genuine character, this is a superb option. It has the prestige of the 18k yellow gold Day-Date, the charm of the 1803 generation and the added appeal of a beautifully textured linen dial.
Every watch we sell is fully inspected to meet our exacting standards. We stand by the quality of our stock, which is why every purchase comes with a 12 month warranty as standard.