Rolex

While Rolex is best known for its sports models, it is hard to argue against the allure of a ‘President’ or Rolex Day-Date. Over the decades since its introduction, the Day-Date has consistently played host to colorful dials, elaborate engraving techniques, and of course – gem setting. The present reference 18048 showcases many of the gem-setting tricks that Rolex is capable of. The diamond bezel is perhaps the most common of all Rolex gem-setting techniques, but a quick glance at the dial shows diamonds and sapphires working in concert with a uniquely reverse-engraved crystal that displays the Rolex name and coronet.

Utilizing sapphires for th indices adds a beautiful dash of blue to the pavé diamond dial. This leaves no place to put the Rolex coronet and name, so Rolex opted to reverse-etch it into the sapphire crystal itself – a very time-consuming and precise technique that is near impossible to replicate. As with all Rolex gem-set pieces, the stones are of the highest quality and are far rarer than their all-gold counterparts. Gem work aside, the watch is preserved in superlative condition with its case back sticker fully intact as well. A uniquely special Rolex Day-Date.