Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date

A symbol of excellence and prestige

The Oyster Perpetual Day-Date holds a hallowed place in Rolex's history, and it is considered the most esteemed model in the Oyster collection. The Rolex Day-Date is not definitely just a watch that tells time, it is an international mark of success, that transcends decades with its iconic style.

Since 1956, the Day-Date has made the strongest of statements about its wearer. As a symbol of prestige and leadership, the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date carries its status with natural aura. Today, as in the past, its elegant modernity is alluring. The timepiece that became renowned as the “presidents' watch” is still respected as the ultimate watch.

When it was launched in 1956, the Day-Date represented the summit of the Rolex art of watchmaking. Thanks to its ingenious mechanism the first wristwatch displayed the date alongside with the day of the week written in full aperture on the dial in 26 languages, thereby asserting its universal nature. At a single glance, it encapsulates the unique heritage of this model, which has become a symbol of excellence and prestige and made Day-Date stand out much more with timeless design appeal.

Also, the Day-Date has always held the distinction of being available only in precious metals – 18 ct gold and 950 platinum. They are made with only the purest metals and meticulously inspected in an in-house laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment, before the gold is formed and shaped with the same painstaking attention to quality. According to the proportion of silver, copper, platinum or palladium added, different types of 18 ct gold are obtained: classic yellow, white and the latest version – enchanting pink tone. Namely, Rolex created and patented an exclusive 18 ct pink gold alloy cast in its own foundry: Everose gold, which is, among the rest, harmoniously united with Olive green dial and bezel set with peerless diamonds.

And on the very top, it is the noblest of metals for the finest of watches – rare and precious 950 platinum. In addition to his unique aesthetic, Day-Date is being fitted with a bespoke bracelet, the famous President bracelet which became an integral element of the Day-Date story. Designed exclusively for Day-Date with satin-finished outer links and polished central link, this bracelet highlights sophistication of this stunning timepiece. Its subtle lines will win you over, and on the wrist it reveals its superior comfort, the result of complex alchemy of form and function.

In accordance with tradition, behind its sleek aesthetics lie technological perfection and watchmaking expertise of the highest order. Faithful to its noble origins the 36 mm Day-Date remains in the catalogue, offering those who want to experience the Day-Date in the original size in which it was first offered in 1956, with 3155 calibre. Enthusiast can choose from a variety of dials and bezel choices. There is also a prominent, contemporary 40 mm version, which marks a significant evolutionary change, also available in various styles.

The Day-Date 40 is equipped with a new-generation movement, calibre 3255 with COSC certification. Rolex proudly announced that over 90 percent of movement components have been improved. This self-winding mechanical movement is at the forefront of the art of watchmaking, a demonstration of Rolex technology with 14 patents, it offers fundamental gains in terms of precision, power reserve, resistance to shocks and magnetism, ease of use and reliability. As a compelling example of avant-garde watchmaking technology, its power reserve now extends to three days.

"Miracle at midnight"

In 1956 the new instantaneous jump calendar system caused the sensation. Rolex developed a system with a two aluminium discs. The aluminium disc with the days of the week written in full is placed above the date disc. The magic happens at midnight – the new date and day of the week appear simultaneously in the two windows on the dial. This ingenious and highly efficient system, covered at its launch by four exclusive patents, also has the advantage of spreading energy consumption evenly over a complete 24-hour cycle, thereby preserving the precision of the certified chronometer's movement. The Day-Date's calendar mechanism has evolved considerably over the years, enchanting its performance, but its basic principles have remained unchanged.

"The art of watchmaking"

A compelling example of avant-garde watchmaking technology, this self-winding mechanical movement is entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. With this new generation movement, Rolex sets a new level of chronometric precision with criteria surpassing those of COSC, with tolerances that are twice as exacting as those for official certification and under condition that simulate the wearer's real-life experience. Also, calibre 3255 benefits from new, updated aesthetics while preserving traditional decoration.

The Day-Date has always held the distinction of being available only in precious metals – 18 ct gold and 950platinum.