1979 Rolex Day-Date 18K YG (Ref. 18038) Burlwood Dial

On an extremely limited basis, Rolex manufactured timepieces featuring exotic materials. Such as dials made from various minerals, woods, and stone including; black onyx, burl wood, lapis lazuli, birch, fossil, coral, aventurine, and ferrite, among others… These exotic variants are always strikingly vivid with a minimalist design and each exotic variant was produced in very limited numbers. With rarity varying between materials, the more rare the material was, the less Rolex produced.

In 1977 Rolex updated the iconic Day-Date model aka the "President" with the ref. 18038, or 18039 for white gold, which featured some major changes to the Day-Date line of watches. The first of the major updates was the introduction of a sapphire crystal, but the biggest improvement was the introduction of the Cal. 3055 movement. This new and improved movement features a quick-set date function within the second position of the winding crown, landing this era with the nickname the "Single-Quick" Day-Date.

Good examples of these exotic Rolex Day-Date references have become exponentially harder to find because of a cult following surrounding them, and a lack of circulation due to the coveted value each unique dial retains. In other words, collectors love these watches and rarely sell them, so when they come up for sale it’s always special.

Stock # RLXDD18038BW-2
Brand Rolex
Style Day-Date
Model 18038
Serial 61XXXXX
Size Men's
Material 18K Yellow Gold
Dial Burlwood
Millimeters 36
Bracelet Rolex 8385 18K YG President Bracelet

CASE & BRACELET

The excellent 18K yellow gold case features very crisp, symmetrical, and well-preserved lugs that feature gentle wear, minimal evidence of previous polishing, and a handsome rosy patina. The 18K yellow gold fluted bezel retains defined edges and strong finishing with honest wear from use. The original Rolex 18K yellow 8385 President Bracelet retains 20 links that exhibit almost no stretch and will fit up to a 6 3/4-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original, beautiful, and unique Burlwood dial features swirling textures with a rich variance in color from light to deep browns. The dial itself remains beautifully preserved, showing no cracking and only minimal age. The original tritium hands feature a creamy patina with no degradation present under UV light inspection.

ACCESSORIES

None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.

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