Exclusive Timepieces 21 – 22 October 2023 | Monaco
Auction Details
The timepieces that we are offering at this auction are coming from all over the world and from some of the most prominent collections.
An incredibly impressive selection of truly rare Rolex Daytonas. A stunning and rare Cartier watch. A Patek Philippe in platinum from the 1920s, coming to auction for the first time, the John Goldberger Calatrava, which is one of the most sought-after reference 530s, to name but a few.
Session I: Saturday 21 October, 2:30 PM – lots 1 to 108
Session II: Sunday 22 October, 10:30 AM – lots 109 to 172
Session III: Sunday 22 October, 2:30 PM – lots 173 to 281
3 Rolex Very Attractive and Remarkable, Day-Date, Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, With Lapis Lazuli Dial, Reference 18 038
Estimate: € 15,000 – 30,000
Sold € 36,400
Model: Day-Date
Reference: 18 038
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1978
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 3055
Case N°: 5753601
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
The Rolex Day-Date has long been admired for its iconic status, diversification and most notably its timeless appeal. It represents Rolex’s first timepiece to display a separate day and date feature and was launched in 1956. While Rolex offered a range of Day-Date and Datejust models with exotic dial collection additionally including marble, onyx, opal, coral and malachite, but the lapis lazuli dial is perhaps the most recognizable for its unadorned beauty. The lapis lazuli, favorite gemstone of Egyptian pharaohs and Royal dynasties throughout history, is perhaps the most eye-pleasing version of dial: not only the deep blue color is breathtaking, but the stone’s natural inclusions add movement and flair to the dial. The process to produce one of these dial is very complicated due to the required size and quality of the mineral that is needed. In the end, the result is stunning. With no evident golden pyrite traces present, this dial bonds fabulously well with the watch’s yellow-gold case considering the gilt text. The present watch is one extremely rare specimen of reference 18 038 and would be an incredible addition to any collection. A versatile, striking yet unassuming dress watch, the Lapis Lazuli Day-Date is the perfect example of a timeless watch with a contemporary flair.