1968 Rolex Day-Date 1803 in White Gold – “Doorstop Dial”

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We are pleased to present this fine example of a Rolex Day-Date reference 1803 in 18k white gold, produced in 1968 (serial number 183xxxx).
It is equipped with a white gold fluted bezel and an unusual dial appreciated by connoisseurs: the "Doorstop Dial". This nickname comes from the shape of the applied indexes at 6 and 9 o'clock, reminiscent of doorstops, which give a particular charm to this dial variant.
Very well preserved since its birth over 50 years ago, equipped with a Rolex automatic movement of great precision and reliability, this watch is a symbol of timeless elegance and discreet luxury.

Detailed description

The Day-Date is one of Rolex's most iconic models. Introduced in 1956, this collection has been in continuous production for almost 70 years. Numerous variations have followed one another: from the first models with “heart” indexes to hard stone dials, through the colored lacquers known as “Stella Dials”, or more recently the introduction of meteorite dials… This is what makes the charm of the Day-Date, and the interest of collectors for this model: its diversity.

Crafted exclusively from precious metals and nicknamed “the watch of presidents,” it is a symbol of prestige, innovation and enduring sophistication.

The reference 1803 occupies a special place in the lineage of Day-Dates. It is the reference par excellence, the one which, produced for 20 years from 1958 to 1978, perhaps saw the greatest diversity of dials out of all the iterations.

The watch we are presenting today has an unusual dial that is appreciated by connoisseurs: the "Doorstop Dial". This nickname comes from the shape of the applied indexes at 6 and 9 o'clock, reminiscent of doorstops, which give a particular charm to this dial variant.

The case back has a “Geneva Key” no. 12 hallmark indicating that the gold case was manufactured by the company Genex SA, a Rolex subcontractor, in Chêne-Bourg (Switzerland).

The movement has been completely overhauled by an experienced watchmaker used to working with vintage Rolex calibers and functions within the strictest tolerances.

Preserved in beautiful overall condition, this watch combines the prestige of the Day-Date in precious metal and the elegance of white gold and the leather strap. It is a symbol of quiet luxury, pleasant to wear daily and practical, thanks to the display of days, date, and to its robust and precise movement.

Condition

This white gold Day-Date is presented in good overall condition.
The beautiful case features wide, prominent lugs, with clear demarcations between the satin/brushed and mirror-polished surfaces. The gold hallmark behind the lug at 7 o'clock is clear. The case back is very well preserved, all its inscriptions inside are clear. The crown is in perfect condition. The serial and reference numbers engraved between the lugs are deep and perfectly legible.
The white gold fluted bezel is well preserved and retains sharp angles.
The original "Doorstop" dial is well preserved, with dots of luminescent material at the tips of the indexes that have developed a pronounced patina. The dial rim has some slightly darker areas. The doorstop-shaped indexes at 6 and 9 o'clock present some surface scratches.
The movement has been completely overhauled by an experienced watchmaker used to working with vintage Rolex calibers and functions within the strictest tolerances.
The gold-colored leather strap is new, and comes with an authentic Rolex steel pin buckle, made by Boucledor, in perfect condition.

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All the watches available on our website have been meticulously inspected by our team of experts to guarantee their authenticity and originality.

All our watches are systematically checked for mechanical function and precision, and undergo a complete overhaul if necessary.

Every watch sold is covered by a two-year warranty.

Find out more about The Amplitude Guarantee.

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We are used to shipping watches all over the world, including to Europe, the United States and Asia. Find out more about Shipping & Deliveries at Amplitude.

Specifications

General characteristics

Object ID : UJ7Q
Brand: Rolex
Model: Day-Date
Reference : 1803
Year: Produced in 1968
Gender: Men's watch / Unisex
Delivered with: Amplitude Steel Warranty Card
Crystal type:
Plexiglass
Dial color:
Silver
Dial markers: No numerals

Case

Case material: White Gold
Case shape:
Round
Case back: Full, screw-back
Bezel material: White Gold
Dimensions/Diameter: 36mm

Movement

Type: Automatic
Caliber: Rolex 1556
Frequency: 19,800 vph (2,75 Hz)
Functions: Date, Day display

Bracelet/Strap

Bracelet/Strap: New leather strap and steel Rolex pin buckle
Bracelet/Strap color: Brown
Bracelet/Strap material: Leather
Buckle/Clasp type: Pin buckle
Buckle/Clasp material: Stainless Steel
Lug width: 20mm

READ MORE ABOUT THE MODEL

The Rolex Day-Date: The very symbol of prestige

Launched in 1956 and in continuous production ever since, the Rolex Day-Date is the first wristwatch to display the date and day of the week in full letters on the dial. From the very beginning, it was designed to offer optimum legibility and flawless reliability thanks to its chronometer-certified movement. Made exclusively in 18-carat gold or platinum, it is distinguished by its President bracelet, designed specifically for this model, offering comfort and elegance. Over the decades, the Day-Date has benefited from numerous technical innovations, while retaining its stylistic identity: water-resistant Oyster case, Cyclops magnifying loupe on the crystal to improve date legibility, President bracelet.

The Day-Date is one of Rolex collectors' favourite models, thanks to the immense diversity of versions that were made since its introduction nearly 70 years ago. Indeed, a multitude of dials – sunrayed, in mother-of-pearl, in hard stones, lacquered, etc. – and bezels – fluted, crenulated, smooth, imitating wood textures, pyramid-shaped, etc. – have made the Day-Date range a true success. These technical and aesthetic developments make the Rolex Day-Date not only a distinctive watch, but also a symbol of innovation and enduring sophistication.

Nicknamed ‘the Presidents’ watch', the Day-Date has been worn by many of the world's most influential leaders and personalities, cementing its reputation as a symbol of prestige and status. These include US presidents Kennedy, Nixon, Ford, Reagan and Trump, sports figures Jack Nicklaus, LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Pelé and Roger Federer, as well as the Dalai Lama, Fidel Castro, Warren Buffett, Jay-Z, Elton John, Brad Pitt and Paul Newman.

Made exclusively from precious metals, each model embodies Rolex's exceptional expertise and continuous innovation. From its sleek lines to its iconic President bracelet, the Rolex Day-Date remains a timeless masterpiece and a prized investment for collectors and connoisseurs of high-quality timepieces.