Rolex Day-Date 36 Yellow Gold Rare Wood Dial 1986 (Full-Set/Unpolished)

Rolex Day-Date 18038 – Yellow Gold with Rare Wood Dial

Rolex stands as one of the most influential names in Swiss watchmaking, celebrated for its precision engineering, iconic design language, and long-standing commitment to durability and performance. Since its founding in 1905, the brand has produced many of the most recognizable and culturally significant wristwatches in history. Among these, the Day-Date holds a particularly prominent place, introduced in 1956 as the first wristwatch to display both the date and the day spelled out in full. Often associated with leadership and prestige, it quickly became a hallmark of Rolex’s technical and aesthetic vision.

The Rolex Day-Date 18038 represents a key chapter in the model’s evolution. Produced throughout the 1980s, it introduced the sapphire crystal and quickset date to the line, while maintaining the classic 36mm profile and unmistakable President bracelet. This specific example, fitted with an extremely rare wood dial, captures the experimental and highly creative dial work of the era—offering collectors a unique combination of craftsmanship, precious materials, and distinctive character.

Key Details To Consider

Rolex Day-Date 18038 presented here in very rare, fully yellow specification and preserved in original unpolished condition. The case features exceptionally thick lugs with honest wear throughout the case and bracelet, reflecting its untouched state.

The standout feature is its original wood dial—pristine, free of cracks or imperfections, and displaying the rich depth these dials are known for. With examples becoming increasingly scarce, this configuration is highly regarded among collectors seeking distinctive materials paired with classic Day-Date design.

The bracelet shows minimal stretch for its 1986 production year and currently fits a 7.4” (19cm) wrist, with additional links available upon request.

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