Lady Datejust “Porcelain” dial

This Lady-Datejust, reference 69178 from 1988 is a timeless classic in its own right. But this particular example goes a step further with an extraordinary detail: a pristine porcelain dial with applied yellow golden Roman numerals. Accompanied by the original box and papers, and cased in solid 18k yellow gold with its original 18k solid gold, Lady President bracelet, this is a Ladies Rolex with some flair. First introduced in the late 1970s, the reference 69178 became a cornerstone of the Lady-Datejust collection. It featured a more refined movement, the quickset caliber 2135, and continued Rolex’s legacy of producing uncompromising women’s timepieces – both mechanically reliable and iconic. As mentioned, the entire watch is crafted from 18k yellow gold, and today, it carries the unmistakable warmth and elegance of Rolex’s vintage gold composition of the iconic President line.

What sets this particular piece apart from others out there, is the glossy white porcelain dial, a strikingly rare factory option found on only a small number of Rolex watches from the 1980s. Rolex dials are typically made from brass and coated in lacquer or paint, but porcelain dials with their deep, mirror-like gloss and rich white finish, represent a completely different approach. Porcelain dials were exceptionally difficult to manufacture. The material is fragile and prone to cracking during production, which is why Rolex only offered it for a short time and in low numbers. Most of the surviving examples today show some sort of wear or damage – making clean, intact dials like this one even more exceptional. The depth and sheen of the porcelain finish creates a vivid contrast with the applied 18k yellow gold Roman numerals, giving the dial a sense of depth and luxury that goes far beyond typical lacquered surfaces. It’s subtle, yet striking – and unmistakably refined.

A clean, original porcelain dial Lady Datejust from this period – especially one paired with full box and papers is a true rarity, and will make a wonderful gift to yourself – or gentlemen – to your wife or girlfriend. As always, she was fully serviced and will be delivered with our two years of extensive mechanical warranty.

reference: 69178
case number: R68XXXX
year of production: 1988
case diameter: 26mm
movement: self-winding, Rolex caliber 2135
box and papers: yes

Price: € 10.450,-