Important Watches: Part I
Important Watches: Part I
Rolex
Day-Date 'Mandarin Calendar', Reference 18348 with XL pavé dial | A yellow gold and diamond-set wristwatch with day, date and bracelet | Circa 1990
Live auction begins on:
May 12, 09:00 AM GMT
Estimate
30,000 - 50,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Dial: diamonds, Mandarin calendar
Calibre: cal. 3155 automatic, 31 jewels
Movement number: 31'732'497
Case: 18k yellow gold, screw-down case back
Case number: E'200'739
Closure: 18k yellow gold Rolex President bracelet and folding clasp
Size: 36 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 175 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: no
Papers: no
Accessories: none
The Rolex 18348 was introduced in the late 1980’s. It marked the launch of the calibre 3155 with the most useful double quick set function. This, at the time, new technology allowed the wearer to adjust both the day and the date in just a couple of seconds. The references starting with 182XX and 183XX were fitted with this new movement.
This generation of Day Date is particularly sought-after by collectors as these pieces harmoniously blend the vintage feel of the exterior with the reliability and ease of use of the movement.
The Reference 18348 is characterized by its factory brilliant-cut diamond-set bezel. Some pieces were fitted with special dials, further enhancing the glamourous aspect of the watch and multiplying its collectability. In the case of the present lot, the timepiece is graced by a most unusual and attractive XL diamond pavé dial. Indeed, the diamonds are larger than those usually found on pavé dials, creating a breathtaking effect.
This timeless piece would be a remarkable and superb addition to the collection of a discerning enthusiast.