Rolex
*Unpolished* 1979 Rolex Oysterquartz Day-Date 18K YG (Ref. 19018) Burlwood Dial W/ Box & Papers
The Rolex Day-Date Oysterquartz ref. 19018 is one handsome and uniquely designed timepiece. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Quartz timepieces were dominating the market and yes even Rolex was affected by what is now known as the "Quartz Crisis".
It would be a mistake to think that quartz watches were an afterthought for Rolex, even despite Rolex's strong dedication to mechanical movements, Rolex began to realize that this type of product could establish itself on the market. This proved to be a fact in the following years to come. The Rolex Oysterquartz production range having lasted less than 3 decades makes the entire range of Rolex Oysterquartz highly sought after and extremely collectible. It has been estimated that less than 25,000 total Oysterquartz watches were ever produced by Rolex.
The design of the Rolex Oysterquartz Day-Date is far removed from the classic Day-Date models and carries design characteristics of the period from which it hails. The angular case, an integrated presidential-style bracelet is utterly unique and almost architectural in appearance. The case and integrated bracelet are unquestionably remarkable. The Rolex Cal. 5055 11 jewel quartz movement is built as one would expect from Rolex, of technical advancement but with a bespoke build and finish.
On an extremely limited basis, Rolex manufactured timepieces featuring exotic materials. Such as dials made from various minerals, woods, and stones including; black onyx, burl wood, lapis lazuli, opal, birch, fossil, coral, aventurine, sodalite, and ferrite, among others… These exotic variants are always strikingly vivid with a minimalist design and each exotic variant was produced in very limited numbers. With rarity varying between materials, the more rare the material was, the less Rolex produced.
This Rolex Oysterquartz Day-Date ref. 19018 is for the gentleman who understands design, style, and truly understands substance. This is a standout piece and makes a statement not only because of the use of solid 18K yellow gold but because it provides the wearer's wrist with unique and timeless elegance while still being design forward.
| Stock # | RLXOQDD19018-3 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Oysterquartz Day-Date | |
| Model | 19018 | |
| Serial | 62XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | 18K Yellow Gold | |
| Dial | Burlwood | |
| Millimeters | 36 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 18K Yellow Gold Oysterquartz President Bracelet |
CASE & BRACELET
The exceptional 18K yellow gold case remains unpolished, boasting all of its original factory chamfers while maintaining the deep texture of the factory brushing of the case. The case does exhibit a subtle rosy patina from never being polished as well and shows gentle signs of use throughout. The 18K yellow gold fluted bezel is in crisp unpolished condition as well. The case back remains crisp with gentle signs of use and the reference and serial engravings remain in excellent condition as do the hallmarks as well. The original 18K Rolex Oysterquartz President-style bracelet retains 26 links that show only subtle stretch and will fit up to a 7 3/4 inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The original Burlwood dial is in exceptionally well-preserved condition, showing no damage whatsoever and no age. The grain of the wood dial is simply beautiful and features intricate swirling and depth throughout. The original tritium yellow gold hands are in perfect condition with no degradation when inspected under U.V. light.
ACCESSORIES
The watch comes complete with its rare and original inner and outer boxes, Rolex guarantee paper, and Rolex Oysterquartz booklets. The watch is keeping time perfectly.