Rolex Day-Date 18238 Red Vignette

The second-generation Day-Date 182XX series were introduced by Rolex in 1988. The Rolex Day-Date 18238 is the first Day-Date with a double quick-set function. This reference is very similar to its predecessor, the 18038, but features the upgraded 3155 movement. This ensures that the watch is much user-friendlier as it allows the date and day to be set independently. The Day-Date represents style, luxury and prestige. The thick 36 mm case and sharp fluted bezel are made in 18K yellow gold. The familiar and elegant president band shows little to no stretch for its age. This beautiful Day-Date features the red vignette diamond dial with baguette diamonds at the 6 and 9 o'clock positions.

Stella and Vignette dial

The well-known Stella dial produced in a range of bold colours, from bright yellow to rich purple. The name came from a company called Stella, based in Chatelaine and Geneva. After the dials from Stern (one of the largest dial manufacturers of the world) arrived at the factory, Stella provided these dials with a special lacquer/coating through a difficult and long process.

Another similar type of dial as in this Datejust is called Vignette. Many collectors would not call this dial Stella, but it is good to remember that the method of production requires the same technique. The only difference is that the dial is on a rotating platform when the lacquer is applied. More lacquer is very gently applied to the outer edge, making it darker. This leaves a special gradient that goes from the original vibrant color in the center to an almost black color at the outer edge.

Rolex Day-Date

The first Day-Date, also referred to as "President", was introduced in the year 1956. To this day, it remains as the signature status watch by Rolex. When Rolex first released the Day-Date, it was the first watch to both feature the day of the week on the 12-hour position, as well as the date on the 3-hour position. Another characteristic of the Day-Date is the famous President-bracelet which appeared on the market in 1966. This bracelet is almost as famous as the watch itself. The President-bracelet would unofficially become known as the "President" when a Day-Date was offered to American president Dwight Eisenhower by Rolex.