Rolex - Rolex Day Date Sequoia Wood Dial Ref. 1803 (with certificate), 1970
Sequoia Wood
We can't say it often enough, Rolex hasn't left a stone unturned when it comes to the material for their dials. Stone, laquer, Stella, you name it, its all there. It is kind of bizarre that Rolex also used wood as material for the dials but yes, they did.
We mostly see Birch and Burl wood but there is another type of wood which does not show up much, Sequoia wood. While the Birch, Burl and Walnut dials have been made for Sapphire crystal references, the Sequoia exclusively came on 4 digit references and only in the early 1970s. The Sequoia material is easy to distinguish from the other types. While Birch and Burl wood are beautifully smooth with a clear lacquer on the surface almost like a Rolls Royce interior (yes, they look glossy), the Seqouia is kind of the opposite. It looks like a rough solid piece of wood with natural veins. Two dials are never the same and the beauty of the dial depends very much on what piece of wood is being used.
This very Rolex Day Date 1803 is in beautiful condition with a fat case and houses a beautiful example of the rare Sequoia dial. The matte brown color of the dial harmonizes nicely with the golden indexes and print.
If we count the examples and pictures we have seen on the surface of the market we come to a number which is smaller than 50 examples making the Sequoia dials truly rare and we are happy to offer this marvel in superb condition and with original Certificate for sale.
Inventory No. 3.2.334
Serial : 2562xxx
Case Size: 36mm
Crystal: Acrylic
Movement: Automatic
Case: Very nice vintage condition case that is showing some wear from age. The lugs remain straight and even with clear case numbers in-between. The fluted bezel is also in very good condition.
Bracelet/Strap: Very good matching President bracelet with old long clasp style. The bracelet shows moderate wear from age but remains tight for the age.
Dial: Very good and rare original Sequoia Wood dial showing a beautiful texture. The luminous material on dial and hands seems to be original with the 4 o'clock marker missing the luminous dot.