Rolex Day-Date 1803 (1974)

The magnificent Rolex Day-Date bleeds prestige and watchmaking excellence. While boasting both day and date functions, this watch retains its simplicity through a minimal white-coloured dial with gold baton numerals and hands, day window at twelve and date window at three. Its 18ct gold case measures at 36mm with a fluted bezel, presented on a genuine Rolex leather strap with little to no signs of wear.

For decades, the Day-Date has been considered the ultimate watch of prestige. It first appeared in Rolex catalogues in 1956, emerging as the first waterproof and self-winding chronometer wristwatch to incorporate a modern calendar with a day display alongside the date, with each day etched out entirely in a window on the dial. Over half a century later, the Day-Date continues to radiate an unmatched status. This 1803 reference features a unique engraving on its solid gold case back, reading:

'PRESENTED TO A A AL BUTHLAYM BY ARABIAN AMERICAN OIL COMPANY IN APPRECIATION OF 30 YEARS SERVICE 1974'.

These engravings offer a new dimension of appreciation for this watch, now evocative of the grand Rolex wearing, Cadillac riding lifestyles of mid-70s wealthy America. Importantly this example is accompanied by a Rolex folding box, as well as service history noting a complete service in 2020 by the esteemed Simon Freese Watchmakers in the UK.