Rolex Day-Date 36 Yellow Gold — Champagne Roman Dial, Fluted Bezel | Ref. 118238

Reference 118238 is a defining expression of the Day-Date 36 in 18 ct yellow gold — the configuration that most closely mirrors the original 1956 introduction of this iconic model. The champagne dial with Roman numeral hour markers and a fluted bezel is the combination that has graced the wrists of heads of state and industry leaders for decades, and it remains the quintessential Day-Date aesthetic: warm, authoritative, and classically proportioned at 36 mm. The 118xxx generation was produced from 2000 through to 2019 before the transition to the 128xxx calibre generation, giving this reference a well-documented production history.

Powering the 118238 is Calibre 3155, the precursor to today's 3255 and a movement Rolex produced for nearly two decades. The 3155 is a self-winding manufacture calibre with a 48-hour power reserve, Glucydur balance wheel, and Breguet overcoil hairspring, regulated to chronometer standards by the COSC. While superseded by the 3255 in current production, the 3155 is a thoroughly proven and reliable movement with an exceptional service record. The 36 mm Oyster case in yellow gold carries the Twinlock winding crown and is water-resistant to 100 metres. The President bracelet — exclusive to the Day-Date — closes with a concealed Crownclasp and remains one of the most recognised bracelet designs in watchmaking.

The 118238 with champagne Roman dial and fluted bezel is the reference collectors most often cite when evoking the Day-Date's original character. Its combination of classical aesthetics and precious metal construction has sustained strong secondary market demand, and examples in clean condition without polishing represent an accessible entry point into the Day-Date 36's most historically resonant configuration.