THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 19018
YEAR: 1986
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 36MM
CASE MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
MOVEMENT: QUARTZ

The Day-Date is Rolex’s flagship model, and arguably rivals the Submariner as the brand’s most iconic watch. Worn by movie stars, royalty, and heads of state, its design has stood the test of time. The present example, however, is not your typical 36 mm Day-Date with a President bracelet. The ref. 19018 Oysterquartz Day-Date features an integrated 18K bracelet design and is arguably the most distinctive model in the history of the Day-Date line.

The Oysterquartz Day-Date was first introduced in 1977 as Rolex’s response to the Quartz Crisis, alongside similar efforts by other leading Swiss watch manufacturers. Although it remained in the Rolex catalogue until around 2003, it was produced in significantly lower numbers than its automatic counterparts, partly because it actually cost more when new (£7,575 in 1986)...

The Genta-esque integrated bracelet design remains a unicorn in Rolex’s history. We know that, in the world of vintage Day-Date collecting, condition is paramount. That is even more true for Oysterquartz Day-Dates, given their sharp bezels, polished centre links, and angular case design.

Fortunately, the present example, dating to 1986, has led a very easy life. The champagne dial is flawless, with matching day and date wheels and beautifully aged creamy tritium lume plots. The case is equally impressive, with virtually no perceptible stretch to the bracelet. Rolex fitted a new battery in late 2024, at which time the watch also received a light polish.

The watch comes complete with its original boxes, wallet, brochures, and original guarantee. Oysterquartz Day-Dates are, in our opinion, among the most undervalued watches in vintage Rolex—and this is as fine an example as any.