Materiality

Rolex

Day-Date, Reference 18208 | A yellow gold wristwatch with day, date, coral dial and bracelet, Circa 2000

Standard VAT applies to hammer price and buyer's premium

Lot closes

July 10, 01:07 PM GMT

Estimate

130,000 - 200,000 USD

Starting Bid

130,000 USD

We may charge or debit your saved payment method subject to the terms set out in our Conditions of Business for Buyers.

Lot Details

Description

Rolex

Day-Date, Reference 18208

A yellow gold wristwatch with day, date, coral dial and bracelet, Circa 2000

Dial: coral

Calibre: cal. 3155 automatic, 27 jewels

Case: 18k yellow gold, screw down case back

Closure: 18k yellow gold Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp

Size: 36 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 170 mm

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Rolex Garantie

Although Rolex is more known in the zeitgeist for their sports watches like the Daytona and Submariner, the true flagship model of the brand has always been the Day-Date. Almost exclusively produced in precious metals, its design strikes the perfect balance between prestige and classy understatement. It is no wonder why the Day-Date soon became the watch of choice for heads of state, earning its typical bracelet the nickname ‘President’. However, the present Day-Date is not an ordinary example.

The show-stopping feature of this piece is the stunning coral hardstone dial. Not to be confused with the coral-red lacquered Stella dials, the present dial was fashioned from a singular piece of hardstone and was made as part of the exotic dial collection additionally including dials in African mahogany, onyx, and birch. The rarity of these dials cannot be overstated, and rarer still to be found in intact condition with no hairline cracks.

The case is also quite unusual, featuring a smooth, un-fluted bezel, which when coupled with an Oyster bracelet completely changes the aesthetic of the watch and allows it to wear sportier while still remaining elegant and timeless, also making the present configuration with coral dial extremely rare. The present Coral Day-Date makes for one of the most instantly dazzling and beautiful Rolex configurations available today, presenting an exciting opportunity for the seasoned collector.

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."