Rolex. A superb 18k gold, diamond and ruby-set automatic calendar wristwatch with sweep centre seconds, bracelet and box
Lot 44 The following two lots represent fine examples from Rolex production of jewelled timepieces. Combining the engineering prowess of horology with the elegance and refinement of jewellery, jewelled watches unite the best of two worlds. The aesthetic appeal of these watches, their undisputed rarity and the superb condition qualify the two timepieces as some of the most intriguing and collectible Day-Date ever made, unquestionably part of the pinnacle of Rolex's gem-set production.

Rolex. A superb 18k gold, diamond and ruby-set automatic calendar wristwatch with sweep centre seconds, bracelet and box

SIGNED ROLEX, DAY-DATE, REF. 18388, CASE NO. E208922, CIRCA 1990

Closed11 May 2015

Price Realised

CHF 75,000

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Rolex. A superb 18k gold, diamond and ruby-set automatic calendar wristwatch with sweep centre seconds, bracelet and box
Signed Rolex, Day-Date, ref. 18388, case no. E208922, circa 1990
Cal. 3155 automatic movement, 31 jewels, pavé-set diamond and ruby dial, sweep centre seconds, magnified window for date, aperture for day in English, tonneau-shaped water-resistant-type case, diamond-set bezel and lugs, screw back, screw down crown, 18k gold diamond-set Rolex President bracelet, concealed deployant clasp, case, dial and movement signed
35.5 mm. diam., overall bracelet length approx. 190 mm.

Specialist note

With Rolex fitted presentation box and literature.

Day-Date wristwatches are the line of Rolex timepieces which notoriously presents the greatest variability in dial and case decorations. Even within the same reference, a nearly endless plethora of different details can be found. Reference 18388, for example, can be found with or without gem-set dial. Gem-set pieces are known to have been made with a number of different gems - among which, most notably, diamond, ruby, emerald and sapphire - and a number of different dial setting designs. The present timepiece differentiates itself for the strong presence of rubies in the pavè, exquisitely arranged in two concentric circles, the outer with larger stones, the inner with smaller gems. Its luxurious appeal is further boosted by the President bracelet with diamond-set central links.