Rolex Day-Date 36mm Tropical - Ref. 18248

For sale is a 1990 Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18248 in 18k yellow gold, presented in unpolished condition with remarkable colour throughout. Heavy oxidisation has given the case and bracelet a rich bronze-orange tone, while the champagne Jubilee dial has developed an orange tropical centre that matches the surrounding gold beautifully. It is this harmony between the aged gold and dial that makes this example particularly special.

Contents of Sale
The watch is supplied with a Rolex box and manuals.

The Dial
The champagne Jubilee dial features Rolex’s repeating “ROLEX” motif, applied gold baton hour markers and matching hands. Over time, its centre has developed a deep orange tone, graduating into lighter champagne shades towards the outer edge. The pattern remains visible throughout, adding depth to the variation in colour.

The appeal here is how closely the dial’s tropical colouring complements the heavy oxidisation of the case and bracelet. Together, they give the watch a warm, cohesive appearance, with each surface showing its own signs of age. The day is displayed at 12 o’clock, with the date beneath the Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock.

The Case and Bezel
The 36mm case is crafted in 18k yellow gold and remains unpolished, retaining its defined proportions and edges. Heavy surface oxidisation has transformed its appearance, with bronze, copper and orange tones visible across the lugs and case sides.

The characteristic bark-finished bezel adds further texture, its fine grooves catching the light against the deeper tones of the aged gold. The combination of this finish and the pronounced patina gives the case a particularly distinctive appearance.

The Bracelet
The watch is fitted with an 18k yellow gold President bracelet, featuring bark-finished centre links that match the bezel and a concealed Crownclasp. The bracelet carries the same rich bronze-orange oxidisation as the case, continuing the colour and texture around the wrist.

The bracelet is currently sized at 17cm.

The Movement
Powering the watch is Rolex’s automatic Calibre 3155, featuring the double quickset function, allowing the day and date to be adjusted independently. It combines the convenience of this later Day-Date movement with the classic proportions and distinctive finishes of the reference 18248.

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

Technical Data:
- Model: 18248
- Year: 1990
- Case material: 18k Yellow Gold
- Case diameter: 36mm
- Bracelet: Rolex President 
- Bracelet material: 18k Yellow Gold
- Dial: Tropical Jubilee 
- Crystal: Sapphire