A RARE MEN'S ROLEX 18K YELLOW GOLD AUTOMATIC WRISTWATCH
Day-Date stone stella dial

Brand: Rolex
Model: Day Date Stone Stella Dial
Case reference: 18038, case back 1800
Year: 1979
Movement: Automatic, Cal. 3055, No. 041XXXX
Dial: Stone stella dial, gilt applied hour hour markers with tritium applied dots, gilt outer minute division, gilt stick hands with tritium insert, gilt centre seconds hand, date aperture at the three o'clock position with a cream calendar disk and black Arabic numerals, day aperture at the 12 o'clock position with a cream disk in English
Material: 18k yellow gold
Bracelet/Strap: Burgundy strap
Signed: Dial, movement, case
Dimension: 36mm

The Rolex Day-Date, also known as the “President,” has long been a symbol of prestige and luxury, worn by world leaders, celebrities, and collectors alike. However, the “Stella Dial” versions of the Day-Date—produced in limited numbers during the 1970s and 1980s—take this iconic model to new heights of rarity and desirability. These dials were crafted in vibrant, lacquered colors, giving the classic Day-Date an unexpected pop of color that has become highly sought after by collectors.

This Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038, featuring a Stone Stella Dial from 1979, is a true rarity, combining the elegance of the Day-Date with the bold aesthetic of the Stella dial.

Rolex introduced the Stella dials during the 1970s, creating them from high-quality lacquer in an array of vibrant hues with a stone-like appearance that added depth and texture. These colorful dials were far from standard production, made in very limited quantities, often reserved for select clients. Today, finding a genuine Stella dial, particularly one in excellent condition, is incredibly challenging.

Due to the delicate nature of the lacquer used, many original Stella dials have suffered from cracking, discoloration, or deterioration over time. As such, examples with a well-preserved, intact lacquer finish are exceedingly rare, making them highly prized among vintage Rolex collectors. This particular watch, with its vibrant and flawless Stone Stella dial, offers a striking example of this rarity, retaining its rich color and glossy sheen with minimal signs of wear. The dial is complemented by applied hour markers, adding a touch of refinement to the bold aesthetic, making this piece a standout in both rarity and condition.

As with all Day-Date models, the Ref. 18038 displays both the day of the week, spelled out in full at 12 o’clock, and the date at 3 o’clock, magnified by the signature Cyclops lens. The day wheel can be customized to display the day in various languages, adding another layer of personalization and appeal to this iconic model.