Owner Review: Rolex Day-Date 36mm 118238

Initially released in 1956, the Rolex Day-Date 36mm has truly shown that it has the ability to stand the test of time. It really is a classic and timeless piece, which remains virtually unchanged when viewed in the current Rolex boutique window (there isn’t much else in the window).

Some people say that size isn’t everything. Some other people might say that a 36mm watch is out dated or even considered as being feminine. In my humble opinion that statement couldn’t be further from the truth.


As can been seen in my pictures, the day date wears extremely well on my 7.5″ wrist. Made from solid 18k yellow gold, the day-date has amazing wrist presence and unexpected heft for the wearer. This Rolex is bold enough to catch the eyes yet subtle enough to slip under a cuff and go unannounced. It can do everything that you need it to do. It really is the perfect everyday luxury precious metal watch.


This example and many other examples dating back to 1988 use the Rolex caliber 3155. This incredibly reliable movement beats at 28800bph and features double quick-set day and date. The piece shown is on what is known as the President or Presidential bracelet also made from solid 18k yellow gold and features a signed Rolex hidden clasp (one of my favorite features of this watch and executed perfectly by Rolex).
Featuring a stunning white gloss dial, applied lumed indices and lumed gold hour and minute hands, legibility on this one won’t be an issue.
With a twinlock screw down crown, the reference 118238 packs 100m water resistance which is more than enough for a dress piece like this.

In my opinion a Rolex Day-Date in 36mm would be a perfect addition in almost any watch collection. It was certianly a perfect addition to mine.

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