Rolex Day-Date 36mm - Ref. 1803

For sale is a rare vintage 1966 Rolex Day-Date Ref. 1803, crafted in solid 18k rose gold and presented on a taupe leather strap. Rose gold examples of the Ref. 1803 are seldom encountered, making this an especially distinctive configuration from the early years of the Day-Date.

The Dial
The centrepiece of this example is its copper/salmon sunburst pie-pan dial, a colour that complements the warmth of the rose gold case particularly well.

Over the decades, the dial has developed pronounced patina, with numerous small raised spots and bubbles across its surface. This gives it a distinctive texture, visible against the sunburst finish, and an unmistakably vintage appearance.

The Case
The classic 36mm case is crafted from solid 18k rose gold and paired with the traditional Rolex fluted bezel. Its warm pink-gold tone works beautifully with the salmon dial, while the familiar proportions retain the classic Day-Date look.

The Strap & Buckle
The watch is fitted with a generic taupe leather strap featuring a grained texture and contrasting white stitching, paired with a generic rose-coloured buckle. Both the strap and buckle are aftermarket.

The muted colour of the leather complements the rose gold and allows the unusual tone and texture of the dial to take centre stage.

The Movement
The watch is powered by a Rolex automatic mechanical movement, which winds through the natural motion of the wrist. It displays the day in full at 12 o’clock and the date at 3 o’clock, the defining combination that gives the Day-Date its name.

Included with the watch:
Original Rolex Box: Yes
Original Papers: No

Technical Data:
Reference: 1803
Year: 1966
Case: Solid 18k Rose Gold
Diameter: 36mm
Bracelet: Leather
Dial: Salmon 
Crystal: Acrylic