Rolex Day-Date 1803 Doorstop Dial
Italian day display - unpolished case - silver doorstop dial
The Rolex Day-Date remains one of the brand's most important models and is often referred to as the "President" due to its association with numerous prominent wearers. Introduced as the world's first wristwatch to display the day of the week spelled out in full, it set a new benchmark in watchmaking. From the very beginning, the Day-Date was produced exclusively in precious metals and quickly became a symbol of prestige, success, and Rolex's highest level of craftsmanship. To this day, it remains one of the most iconic luxury watches ever made.
This example is an honest and exceptionally well-preserved Day-Date from 1969. The silver sunburst dial features the rare so-called Doorstop hour markers at 6 and 9 o'clock, named after their distinctive shape, which resembles a doorstop. This unusual marker configuration is found primarily on Day-Date models from the late 1960s and was only fitted for a short period into the early 1970s. Equally desirable is the Italian day disc, which is considerably rarer than the standard English version and highly appreciated among collectors.
The 18k yellow gold case is preserved in the condition collectors value most: honestly worn yet unpolished. The sharp lugs, well-preserved fluted bezel, and crisp reference and serial numbers between the lugs all emphasize the watch's original character. Overall, this Day-Date represents an honest and authentic collector's piece.
Condition
Dial: very good original condition – fully intact sunburst finish – only a few age-related marks visible under 10x magnification – every single tritium lume plot remains fully intact – signed "Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified" – "T Swiss T" at 6 o'clock.
Case: 18k yellow gold Oyster case – 36 mm – worn but unpolished – light signs of wear – crisp gold hallmarks on the reverse of the lugs – correct reference and serial numbers between the lugs – correct case back engravings and gold hallmarks – original Twinlock crown.
Movement: Rolex automatic caliber 1556 – timegrapher results: rate +45 seconds/day, amplitude 145°, beat error 0.8 ms.
Serial number: 2238xxx (1969)
Int.Exe.: 853310
Manufacturer: Rolex
Model: Day-Date
Reference: 1803
Functions: day of the week - central second - COSC certified chronometer - hacking second - screw-down crown - hour and minute - screwed-on caseback - date
Material: Yellow Gold
Carat: Gold 750 : 18 ct
Dial: silver colored
Watch glass: acrylic crystal
Delivery Contents: chronometer certificate - booklet / leaflet - Watch Rate Certificate - Papers
Bracelet: leather
Diameter: 36mm
Caliber: Rolex 1556
Movement type: automatic
Year of Manufacture: 1969
Stock No.: PTV2366
Overall condition: 9 - has rarely been worn - top condition
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