Offered for sale is a truly exceptional Rolex Day-Date 36 ref. 18238 in 18k yellow gold, featuring a stunning factory champagne Sting diamond dial.

A defining symbol of Rolex prestige and one of the most recognisable watches ever created, the Day-Date has represented timeless luxury, achievement, and sophistication since its introduction in 1956. The reference 18238 belongs to the golden era of the Day-Date, combining the classic 36mm proportions with the unmistakable warmth of 18k yellow gold.

This particular example is distinguished by its elegant champagne Sting diamond dial, with diamonds catching and reflecting the light beautifully across the dial. Combined with the iconic fluted yellow gold bezel and the signature President bracelet, the result is a watch with an unmistakable presence while retaining the refined character of classic Rolex.

Powered by Rolex’s renowned Calibre 3155 automatic movement, the Day-Date 18238 features the iconic day and date display, with the day presented in full at 12 o’clock and the date at 3 o’clock.

Dating from approximately 1989 with an L serial, this example captures the distinctive proportions, craftsmanship, and character of late-1980s Rolex — a period highly appreciated by collectors of vintage and neo-vintage timepieces.

⸻

Key Features

Reference: 18238

Year: 1989 (L serial)

Case: 36mm, 18k yellow gold

Bezel: 18k yellow gold, fluted

Dial: Factory champagne String diamond dial

Movement: Rolex Calibre 3155, in-house automatic

Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours

Bracelet: Original 18k yellow gold President bracelet

Crystal: Sapphire crystal

Water Resistance: 100 metres (10 ATM)

Clasp: Concealed folding clasp in 18k yellow gold

Functions: Day and date

⸻

Condition

Very good used condition

Shows only minor signs of wear, including small, light scratches consistent with careful use

Case and bracelet remain beautifully preserved

Dial, diamond hour markers, hands, and crystal are well maintained

Fluted bezel retains its distinctive sharp profile

Mechanically running perfectly

⸻

Set

Full set: box and papers

⸻

Notes

The Rolex Day-Date 18238 represents one of the most iconic expressions of the classic Day-Date design. Crafted exclusively in precious metal, the model has long been associated with success, influence, and understated sophistication.

What makes this particular example especially compelling is the combination of 18k yellow gold and the factory champagne Sting diamond dial. The warm champagne tones of the dial complement the rich colour of the gold beautifully, while the diamonds add an unmistakable touch of refinement without compromising the timeless character of the watch.

The L-serial dating to approximately 1989 places this example firmly within a fascinating period of Rolex history, when the classic Day-Date proportions were paired with the modern convenience of the sapphire crystal and the highly regarded Calibre 3155.

The iconic fluted bezel and President bracelet complete the unmistakable Day-Date aesthetic, creating a timepiece that remains instantly recognisable decades after its production.

A superb opportunity to acquire a beautifully preserved neo-vintage Rolex Day-Date 36, combining precious-metal craftsmanship, a highly distinctive factory diamond dial, and the enduring elegance of one of Rolex’s most celebrated models.

Vintage Rolex truly has a character of its own — and the Day-Date 18238 is one of the finest expressions of it.