ROLEX | DAY-DATE, REF 1803WHITE GOLD WRISTWATCH WITH DAY AND DATECIRCA 1973

Dial: black Calibre: cal. 1556 automatic, 26 jewels Movement number: DD'375'504 Case: 18k white gold, screw-down back Case number: 3'278'099 Closure: Rolex crocodile strap and 18k white gold buckle Dimensions: 36 mm Signed: case, dial and movement Accessories: none

MVT: running at the time of cataloguing and the day and date advancing. CASE: in great condition with sharp edges, strong hallmark on the back and nice metal-brushed finishing on the lugs. There is surface wear throughout, including some small pinhead dings and an elongated surface scratch on the left band. DIAL: in good condition with minor blemishes and very fine green and red spotting visible with the naked eye when closely examining the dial. The lume plots have aged uniformly and taken on a nice yellowish-brown color. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

In 1956, Rolex introduced the first wristwatch indicating the weekday spelt out fully on the dial together with the date, appropriately named the 'Day-Date'. Its size and appearance makes this model an excellent acquisition, as its versatility allows for it to be worn both as a sports and dress-watch. A hallmark for prestige and class, the Day-Date has been nicknamed the 'President' after Rolex gifted the watch to then President Dwight Eisenhower. The 1556 calibre in the present piece was the last in the 1500 series that powered the 'President', constructed with 26 jewels and shock resistance.

Utilitarian functionality is fused with an air of sophistication in this rare white gold piece featuring an elegant black dial, presented here in a very good condition.