The 5 Most Expensive Rolex Day Date Watches Sold at Auction in 2024

F irst introduced in 1956, the Rolex Day-Date was a game-changer in the watch industry, being the first timepiece to display both the day and the date in separate apertures on the dial. The iconic day display at 12 o'clock spelled out the day of the week in full, offering up to 26 languages for a truly international appeal. Crafted exclusively in precious metals, including 18k yellow, white, and pink gold, and platinum, the Day Date quickly became a symbol of luxury and status. Read on to discover five of the most expensive Rolex Day Date watches sold at auction in 2024.

Rolex Day Date, Reference 1803 Circa 1963, 840,000 USD

The Rolex Day-Date Reference 1803 sold for 840,000 USD in December 2024. Introduced in 1956, the Rolex Day Date quickly earned its place as the flagship model in the brand's catalog. Crafted from a solid block of gold, housed in the iconic waterproof Oyster case, this watch was revered by industry leaders, celebrities, and presidents, earning the nickname "Rolex President."

This particular 1963 Rolex Day Date Reference 1803, belonged to Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser. Known for his vision of social justice and economic reform, Nasser was instrumental in shaping modern Egypt. Nasser’s Rolex was a gift from his close friend Anwar El Sadat, who would later succeed him as President of Egypt. The watch bears an inscription in Arabic that reads, "Mr. Anwar El Sadat 26-9-1963." The watch is not only a prized timepiece but also a piece of history, visible in photographs from critical moments such as the Six-Day War. Despite his minimal material possessions, Nasser cherished this watch, and it remained a significant personal item, passed down through his family after his passing in 1970.

Rolex Day Date, Reference 228396TBR Circa 2021, 168,000 USD

The Rolex Day-Date Reference 228396TBR was sold for 168,000 USD in December 2024. Since its debut in 1956, the Day Date has evolved into one of Rolex's most versatile collections, offering a wide range of dial options—from elegant hardstone to dazzling gemstone embellishments. Hardstone dials, in particular, are highly sought after by collectors.

This exceptional timepiece features a platinum case and a striking meteorite dial with intricate natural patterns. Its design is further enhanced by a baguette diamond-set bezel and matching diamond hour markers. Consigned directly by Tom Brady and accompanied by its complete original accessories, this watch is a rare and valuable addition to any collection.

Rolex Day Date 'Oysterquartz', Reference 19168 Circa 1985, 1,206,500 HKD

This Rolex Day-Date 'Oysterquartz' Reference 19168 was sold for 1,206,500 HKD in February 2024. Introduced in 1977, the Oysterquartz Day Date was a groundbreaking model in Rolex’s history, showcasing the brand’s embrace of cutting-edge technology with the electromechanical quartz movement Caliber 5055. Renowned for its precision and innovation, this model marked a departure from traditional automatic movements and stood as a testament to Rolex’s adaptability in the quartz era.

This particular Oysterquartz Reference 19168 is distinguished by its opulent design, featuring a bezel adorned with baguette-cut sapphires and a bracelet set with 52 round rub-over diamonds and 24 baguette-cut diamonds. The rub-over diamonds, rising prominently above the links, evoke the image of an octopus's suction cups, earning the piece its endearing nickname among collectors.

Rolex Day Date, Reference 228235 Circa 2016, 96,000 USD

The Rolex Day-Date Reference 228235 was sold for $96,000 in June 2024. Released in 2016 to mark the 60th anniversary of the Day Date, this timepiece is crafted from exquisite pink gold. It showcases signature Rolex design elements such as a fluted bezel, applied Roman numerals, and the iconic President bracelet. Its standout feature is the dark green dial, a hallmark color synonymous with Rolex’s legacy of sophistication.

Widely regarded as "The President" due to its association with influential figures such as Lyndon B. Johnson, the Rolex Day Date has become a symbol of power and achievement. This specific timepiece carries additional prestige as it was consigned by Sylvester Stallone, a legendary figure in the entertainment world. Engraved with the nickname "Sly" on the case back, the watch serves as a testament to Stallone's remarkable career and enduring legacy.

Rolex Day Date II, Reference 218399BR Circa 2014, 72,000 CHF

This Rolex Day-Date II Reference 218399BR was sold for 72,000 CHF in November 2024. Introduced in 2008, the Day Date II features a bold 41mm case, a significant departure from the traditionally modest proportions of earlier Day Date models. Crafted from the finest 18k white gold, this timepiece exudes luxury while remaining remarkably durable. Its presence on the wrist is both commanding and refined, a testament to Rolex’s ability to innovate while respecting its heritage.

This particular Rolex Day Date II Reference 218399BR showcases exceptional craftsmanship and distinctive proportions that make it a standout in the Rolex lineup. Its wider lugs and bracelets contribute to its sportier aesthetic, setting it apart from the classic Day Date and Datejust models. The watch is powered by the Caliber 3156, a movement designed to provide both precision and durability. In response to the growing trend of larger watches in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Rolex successfully delivered with the Day Date II, offering a bolder yet equally sophisticated option for those seeking modernity in their timepieces.

Buy and Sell Your Next Rolex Day Date with Sotheby's

Sotheby’s offers a curated selection of the finest Rolex watches available for immediate purchase, as well as through auctions held in New York, Paris, Zurich, and Hong Kong. Expect to find rare and collectible Rolex models in every sale, including iconic pieces like the Daytona, GMT-Master, Submariner, and more in exceptional condition. Sotheby’s auctions feature an array of Rolex timepieces, ranging from elegant vintage models to contemporary masterpieces, showcasing the brand’s unmatched craftsmanship and innovation.

Prices for Rolex watches start around $10,000 for simpler models like the Datejust and rise significantly for highly sought-after pieces. Iconic models such as the Day-Date and Daytona often command starting prices of $50,000, while rare collectible editions can exceed $200,000.