CHF 27'500 .-

The present Rolex Day-Date reference 1803/8 in 18k yellow gold, dating to circa 1982 and bearing serial number 7657XXX, is an exceptionally unusual and fascinating example with remarkable provenance. While the serial number is unusually late for a reference 1803, the watch comes directly from its original owner, a former Rolex employee, who explained the unique circumstances surrounding its delivery. According to the original owner, Rolex still had an unsold reference 1803 case in stock in 1982. As an employee, he requested to purchase the watch directly from the manufacture, and Rolex agreed, engraving it with a contemporary serial number before delivery. This unusual history explains the discrepancy between the reference and the later serial number, making the watch a particularly interesting testimony to Rolex's internal practices at the end of the production of the reference. The watch has been regularly maintained by Rolex throughout its life and is accompanied by several Rolex service invoices dated 2006, 2017, and 2025. The most recent service, carried out in 2025, included a complete overhaul and polishing, and the watch remains covered by the balance of the Rolex international service warranty. During its lifetime, several components were replaced by Rolex. The watch is now fitted with a rare red vignette silver printing Luminova dial, confirmed by Rolex during the 2025 factory service, together with matching Luminova hands. Although not original to the watch, this exceptionally uncommon dial configuration remains highly attractive and seldom encountered on a reference 1803. The caseback and the President clasp have also been replaced by Rolex during previous services, reflecting the extensive care the watch has received over the decades. The 18k yellow gold fluted bezel remains in excellent condition, while the original President bracelet shows moderate stretch, entirely consistent with its age and regular use. The watch is fitted with a French day disc, adding further appeal for French-speaking collectors. An interesting aspect of the watch's history is that its owner benefited from a 50% employee discount on Rolex servicing, which explains the remarkable number of documented factory interventions. All service invoices are issued in the name of the original owner, providing an exceptional and fully coherent ownership history spanning several decades. The watch is also accompanied by a Rolex presentation box (without its interior cushion). Combining an unusual production story, single ownership, extensive documented Rolex service history, an exceptionally rare red vignette dial confirmed by Rolex, and the reassurance of a recent factory service still under warranty, this Day-Date 1803/8 represents a truly unique opportunity to acquire a highly distinctive vintage Rolex with outstanding provenance.

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