Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18078 is a remarkable timepiece that showcases Rolex's dedication to luxury and unique design, but this particular example we have here today showcases a unique vintage appeal for the discerning collector. Crafted from 18ct yellow gold, this watch features a rare Havana dial. Over time, this dial has developed a "tropical" patina, a transformation resulting from either prolonged exposure to sunlight or other environmental factors as seen in our example. This natural aging process can cause the original dial colour to fade or change, leading to unique and desirable variations. In this instance, the dial's transformation is further enhanced by "tritium burn," where the original tritium-based luminous markers have aged, contributing to the dial's distinctive appearance.
The watch remains unpolished, preserving the sharp lines and original finishes of its 36mm case. The 18ct yellow gold has developed a rich, warm patina, often referred to as "blooming," which can occur when a watch is stored in a safe or unworn for extended periods. This natural process enhances the vintage appeal of this Day-Date.
A standout feature of this model is the "bark finish" adorning both the bezel and the centre links of the President bracelet. This intricate texture, resembling the patterns of tree bark, was crafted by Rolex to add depth and character to the watch, setting it apart from the traditional fluted or smooth finishes. The bark finish was produced by Rolex from the early 1970s until the late 1980s, making it emblematic of vintage Day-Date models.
This stunning Havana tropical dial, bark finish, unpolished 'safe queen’ Day-Date from 1986 presents in excellent condition for a watch close to 40 years old and is backed with our 24 month Vintage Watch Co. warranty.
