T his yellow gold Rolex 'President,' a 1963 Reference 1803 Day-Date, belonged to the revered Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser, a transformative leader whose vision and legacy profoundly shaped 20th-century Egypt and the Arab world.
On 6 December, Sotheby’s Important Watches Sale will present this extraordinary timepiece with unparalleled historical significance, gifted to Nasser by his lifelong friend and future successor, Anwar El Sadat.
Introduced in 1956, the Rolex Day-Date—dubbed the "Rolex President"—was the first watch to display both the day and date in full on the dial, quickly becoming a symbol of power and prestige among world leaders. Inscribed in Arabic with "Mr. Anwar El Sadat 26-9-1963," this treasured gift was worn by Nasser during defining moments of his presidency, from the Six-Day War to diplomatic efforts to unite the Arab world. Following his passing in 1970, the watch remained a cherished family heirloom, passed through generations. As Nasser’s only personal possession outside museum collections, this Rolex embodies leadership, friendship, and an enduring legacy, offering collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of history.
This watch is just one of the many exceptional vintage, modern, and independent timepieces featured in Sotheby’s live Important Watches auction taking place in New York City on 6 December at 10:00 AM EST.
