Day-Date Oysterquartz 19048
The Rolex Oysterquartz stands as one of the most fascinating chapters in Rolex’s history, a bold deviation from the brand’s mechanical tradition, and a product of its most daring design period. Introduced in the late 1970s, the Oysterquartz combined Rolex’s uncompromising craftsmanship with cutting-edge quartz technology, resulting in a watch that was both precise and architectural in its presence. Crafted entirely from 18k yellow gold, our reference 19048 represented the pinnacle of the Day-Date Oysterquartz line. It retained the iconic President DNA, yet expressed it through sharp, faceted lines, an integrated bracelet, and a distinctly modern silhouette that set it apart from anything else in Rolex’s catalogue at the time.
Manufactured in 1986, this particular example embodies precision, luxury, and design innovation. It features a factory diamond bezel, consisting of 44 brilliant-cut diamonds, and a partially diamond-set dial, where delicate stones are placed between the black lacquered, applied gold numerals: an elegant and restrained take on gem-setting that enhances the watch’s character without excess. The connection between the sharp geometry of the Oysterquartz case and the refined sparkle of the diamonds makes this reference one of the most striking executions within the Day-Date lineage. With only around 25,000 Oysterquartz watches produced across all models and materials, and a far smaller fraction being factory gem-set Day-Dates such as the 19048, examples like this are exceedingly rare, and scarce on the market today. This example remains in excellent, unpolished condition, displaying razor-sharp lines throughout the case and bracelet, with all original factory facet cuts perfectly intact. The case-back sticker is still present, and all gold hallmarks, reference, and case number are clearly legible to the naked eye. Fitted with its original President-style bracelet and a factory diamond bezel, this is an exceptionally rare and beautifully preserved Day-Date Oysterquartz: a remarkable find even among Rolex’s most exclusive creations.
Nearly four decades on, this 19048 has matured into a true collector’s piece, a watch that bridges two worlds: the enduring prestige of the Day-Date and the experimental spirit of late-20th-century Rolex design. In truly exceptional condition, and retaining its full 18k gold bracelet, this 1986 Rolex Day-Date Oysterquartz ref. 19048 remains a rare opportunity to own one of the most distinctive and luxurious creations in Rolex’s history. The movement has been fully serviced and this stunning Day-Date Oysterquartz 19048 will be sold with our extensive two years of mechanical warranty.
reference: 19048
case number: 916XXXX
year of production: 1986
case diameter: 36mm
movement: Quartz, Rolex caliber 5055
box and papers: no
Price: € 27.950,-








