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This Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1803 is a beautifully preserved example of one of Rolex’s most iconic dress watches, dating to 1977.
The Day-Date has always occupied a special place within the Rolex catalogue. Produced only in precious metals, it became the flagship Rolex of its era, combining the practicality of both day and date complications with the unmistakable presence of an 18k gold case and Presidential bracelet.
This example is particularly appealing because of its condition. The 36mm 18k yellow gold case remains in sharp unpolished condition, retaining the strong lines and definition that are so often lost on vintage gold Rolex watches. The case profile, lugs and fluted bezel all present with the kind of integrity collectors look for.
The watch is fitted with its original champagne dial, a classic configuration for the yellow gold Day-Date. The warm tone of the dial works beautifully with the case and bracelet, giving the watch the unmistakable look that made the 1803 such an enduring reference.
Inside is the Rolex calibre 1556 automatic movement, the correct movement for this generation of Day-Date. The watch is completed by its original 18k yellow gold Presidential bracelet, giving it the full presence and character expected from a vintage Rolex Day-Date.
Key Features
Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1803
Year 1977
Rolex calibre 1556 automatic movement
36mm 18k yellow gold case
Sharp unpolished case condition
18k yellow gold fluted bezel
Original champagne dial
Day and date complication
Acrylic crystal
Original 18k yellow gold Presidential bracelet
Sold as watch only
A Word on Condition
This Rolex Day-Date presents extremely well, with the sharp unpolished case being the standout feature. Vintage gold Rolex cases are often heavily polished over time, so finding an example that still retains strong definition and honest case geometry is always significant.
The fluted bezel remains attractive, the champagne dial has a warm and classic appearance, and the overall look is exactly what collectors hope for in a period Day-Date. The watch has the presence of a full gold Rolex, but still retains the vintage charm and proportion that makes the Ref. 1803 so desirable.
The original Presidential bracelet completes the watch beautifully and gives it the correct look on the wrist. Overall, this is a strong, honest and highly attractive vintage Day-Date in a very classic configuration.
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 definitive vintage Rolex references. It has the 36mm case, acrylic crystal, fluted bezel, champagne dial and Presidential bracelet, all in the classic yellow gold configuration collectors associate with the model.
What makes this example stand out is the case condition. An unpolished 18k yellow gold Day-Date is far harder to find than many people realise, and sharp case lines make a significant difference to the overall quality and feel of the watch.
For someone looking for a proper vintage Rolex Day-Date with presence, originality and strong condition, this Ref. 1803 is a superb example. It is classic, recognisable and full of character, while still feeling elegant and highly wearable today.
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.