Day-Date 18388 MOP/Diamonds

Some watches were created simply to tell the time. Others were created to make a statement. And then there is the Rolex Day-Date reference 18388, a masterpiece from an era when Rolex explored the very limits of artisanal craft and high-jewellery watchmaking. Produced in 1995 and executed almost entirely in factory diamonds, this exceptional example belongs to a rare class of Day-Dates reserved for the brands most exclusive clientele.

The reference 18388 is best known as the diamond Day-Date, and this model demonstrates exactly why. Its bezel is fully set with high-grade round brilliant-cut diamonds, each expertly selected and positioned by Rolex gem-setters to achieve a perfect visual balance. The bracelet continues this theme: Diamond-set center links transform the familiar President bracelet into an object of jewellery in its own right, yet without sacrificing Rolex’s signature comfort and wearability. The dial is a true and rare highlight. Crafted from shimmering ivory colored mother-of-pearl and a center executed in a lavish pavé pattern, it catches light in a way only natural materials combined with diamonds can. The effect is both dramatic and refined: unmistakably luxurious, yet executed with the restraint and symmetry Rolex is known for. Three decades after its creation, this Day-Date 18388 remains in excellent, near mint condition. The case and bracelet retain their crisp lines, the dial and gem-setting are flawless, and the President bracelet shows minimal signs of wear. For a high-jewellery Rolex from the mid-90s, finding a piece this well-preserved is increasingly rare.

Accompanied by its original warranty paper (landcode 440 – delivered and sold in Taiwan), booklets, hangtags and other documentation, this 18388 offers the completeness and provenance Day-Date collectors value highly. Pieces of this calibre seldom appear with their full set, making this a particularly compelling opportunity for both collectors and enthusiasts of Rolex’s most opulent creations. She will be sold with our extensive two years of mechanical warranty.

reference: 18338
case number: W005XXX
year of production: 1995
case diameter: 36mm
movement: self-winding, Rolex caliber 3155
box and papers: yes

Price: € 89.000,-