Rolex Day-Date ‘President’ Ref. 1803

Pre-Owned Rolex 36mm Day-Date, Silver Dial, President Bracelet, Ref. 1803

Any Rolex Day-Date is a special watch, as it is often a recognition of personal achievement and success. Offered only in 18K gold or platinum and fitted with the special President style bracelet, they stand out, even amongst an already highly recognized brand.

The Day-Date was originally released in 1956 and the reference 1803 arrived two years later when Rolex upgraded the movements in the Day-Date; the 1803 continued in production for twenty years. While the Day-Date stands out, this reference 1803 is particularly special as it is made entirely of 18K White gold, a not often seen material. An acrylic dial also covers a distinctive “Pie Pan” dial, something that disappeared on later references. Solid gold watches tend to be heavier than their steel counterparts, but this reference 1803 is lighter than the modern Day-Date references because it used hollow links in its President bracelet. This watch from circa 1967 is powered by a caliber 556 self-winding movement, which does not feature the quick set date that appeared in later movements. (This feature is not likely to be missed as the wearer will probably not take the watch off long enough to need to adjust the day or date.) Full of character and history, the large, applied white gold hour markers stand out attractively against the silver colored, Pie Pan dial. The sweeping seconds hand and hour and minute hands are in excellent condition and make this a highly legible, as well as attractive watch. The iconic Rolex Coronet at the top center of the dial seems the perfect capstone. While the Presidential bracelet has some stretch, it is not bad considering it dates from 1967. Named after its preference among many powerful men including American Presidents, the Day-Date has since become associated with class, power, and high-style. In white gold, it becomes more understated, but this watch is no less attractive or heart-stirring.