The Rolex Day-Date is one of the most iconic and beautiful watches in the Rolex catalog. The Rolex Day-Date earned the nickname "President" after it had been rumored that President Dwight Eisenhower began wearing one.  In reality, Eisenhower wore a Rolex 18K yellow gold Oyster Perpetual Datejust which Rolex gifted to him in 1950. However, the nickname President stuck and is quite fitting for the Day-Date as Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Ford, Reagan, and Nixon all wore the Rolex Day-Date model. It has always been a symbol of status and luxury as the Rolex Day-Date is only made in precious metals most commonly 18k yellow gold and possesses both the day and date complications within the movement. 

In 1977 Rolex updated the iconic Day-Date model aka the "President" with the ref. 18038, which featured some major changes to the Day-Date line of watches. The first of the major updates was the introduction of a sapphire crystal, but the biggest improvement was the introduction of the Cal. 3055 movement. This new and improved movement features a quick-set date function within the second position of the winding crown, landing the ref. 18038 with the nickname the "Single-Quick" Day-Date.

The dial on this 1987 Rolex Day-Date ref. 18078 is referred to within the vintage collector community as a "Pinball" dial for the round markers with a mirror-like high-shine polish. This elusive dial has been coveted by collectors since it was first offered as its unique aesthetic creates a truly elevated appearance to the already sophisticated nature of the Day-Date. We love this specific example not only for its condition but the Pinball dial pairs beautifully with the bark-finish of the case to create a harmonious array of textures that makes this watch that much more interesting. This is also a true collector's set, coming from the family of the original owner complete with its original box, papers, and accessories. 

CASE & BRACELET

The well-preserved and beautiful 18K yellow gold case retains extremely thick and even lugs that display a sleeve-polish appearance and gentle signs of use. The 18K yellow gold bark-finished bezel is extremely crisp with almost no signs of use present. The case back features a light engraving of the original owner's initials "R.D.G.". The original Rolex 8723 bark-finished President bracelet retains 23 links that show almost no stretch and will fit up to a 7 1/4-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The exceptionally rare and stunning  "Pinball" marker champagne sunburst dial is in virtually flawless condition, showing no age or damage whatsoever. The tritium lume plots feature a subtle ivory color and exhibit no degradation when inspected under UV light. The original non-luminous solid yellow-gold hands are in perfect condition. The metallic gold date wheel is original with open 6's and 9's.

ACCESSORIES 

The watch comes complete with its original inner and outer boxes, Rolex guarantee paper, Rolex notebook, and booklets. The watch is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.