268 Rolex An incredibly rare and absolutely magnificent, Day Date, automatic wristwatch in yellow gold, with Tiffany-blue lacquered “Stella” dial, reference 18038.
Estimate: € 50.000 – 100.000
Create an account or log in to place bids.
| model | Day Date |
|---|---|
| year | 1977 |
| reference | 18038 |
| case material | 18K yellow gold |
| case number | 5'375'600 |
| bracelet material | 18K yellow gold Rolex bracelet, approximate length 175mm |
| movement type | Automatic, cal. 3055, 27 jewels |
| dimension | 36mm Diameter |
| signed | Case, dial and movement |
In the annals of Rolex production, few creations stir the soul quite like the enigmatic and joyful “Stella” dials. Born in the 1970s, at a time when watch design was beginning to embrace color as a symbol of identity and individualism, the Stella was Rolex’s answer to the expressive spirit of the decade. But this was no whimsical experiment: each dial was lacquered by hand, layer upon layer, to create a luminous, almost porcelain-like surface. Intended primarily for the Middle Eastern and Asian markets, many dials were ultimately discarded or swapped out by retailers and owners seeking more conservative tones. Today, that rarity has become legend. The present Day-Date reference 18038, cased in yellow gold, is graced by one of the most desirable of all Stella tones: a radiant turquoise blue, remarkably close to the hue now ubiquitously known as “Tiffany.” Its glossy lacquer finish is impressive and one of the most appealing we had the chance to see. The watch retains its original case proportions, with sharp fluted bezel and well defined lugs, as well as its matching yellow gold President bracelet. Powered by the caliber 3055 with quickset date function, this example encapsulates a chapter of Rolex history that defied tradition in favor of emotion and expression. A true connoisseur’s delight, this is a celebration of color, craft, and cultural shift.
Condition Report
Create an account or log in to view the condition report!