Rolex Day Date 1803 White Gold – 1969

Rolex Day Date 1803 White Gold

This is it, the top of the tree for the Rolex range and the very best series in our opinion. For those unfamiliar with Day Date’s, the 1803 is the first in the series and is differentiated from later models for its pie-pan dial and non-quickset day and date adjustment. This pie-pan dial configuration lends a depth not seen in later models, and the open 6’s and 9’s adds vintage charm. For us, the 36mm is the original and best Day Date configuration, and the 1803 is the pick of the litter.

This particular example is a very interesting piece indeed. Sold new in Hong Kong in 1970, the original AD purchased it as a head-only, and then had their own bracelet fitted to keep costs down. This bracelet is not white gold, but a mixture of metals, with 69% Silver, 15% gold and 13% Palladium and the rest a mix of Rhodium, Copper and Zinc. The original papers denote the fitment of this bracelet, and a precious metal breakdown image is available upon request.

The other reason this is a little special is that it was owned by the one family between 1970 and 2019 here in Melbourne, and as you can see from the condition it was seemingly very seldomly worn. The case back sticker is still in place, and largely intact. It was then discovered when the owners belongings were to be put in an estate sale, and given to a local dealer. It then made its way to another dealer here in Melbourne, and was purchased by the current owner this year. So effectively other than a couple of dealers, it’s had two owners from new and looks to have spent 40+ years unworn.

Condition is absolutely sensational. The silver pie pan door stop dial is flawless, with all plots in place, and very little patina developing on the day and date wheels as its not seen the sun for a long, long time. Open 6’s and 9’s present on the date wheel. Couple of dust flecks can be seen under a loupe.

Hands are tritium, and appear original.

We’ve been told the watch has never been serviced, and the current owner had it opened by a watchmaker and those images are attached. It also appears unpolished, with extremely clear and deep markings between the lugs. Bezel is super sharp. Shows minor scratches and hairlines, and some marks on both sides of the lugs from the bracelet being pulled on and off.

Winds smoothly, date and day changes sharply at 12. Timekeeping is still excellent at around -8 secs a day at 270 degrees of amplitude at time of writing, but would suggest a service if you’re planning to wear it for the sake of the oil and to minimise wear on components, as well as renew the seals.

Comes with inner box, papers (expired) and hang tag.

A phenomenal time capsule of a watch.