Description

The present reference is the Rolex Day-Date ref. 18038 “Khanjar,” a yellow gold example distinguished by a sunburst blue dial bearing the Omani emblem. Since its introduction in 1956, the Day-Date has become one of Rolex’s most recognisable creations, combining precious-metal construction with its signature calendar display.

The 36 mm yellow gold case retains the classical proportions that have defined the collection across generations. Its warm tones contrast with the blue dial, whose sunburst finish shifts with the light. Baton hour markers lend the display a restrained elegance, while the day aperture at 12 o’clock and date window at 3 o’clock, beneath the Cyclops magnifier, preserve the model’s familiar arrangement.

Of particular interest is the gold-printed Khanjar emblem at 9 o’clock. Associated with watches commissioned for presentation to dignitaries, officials, and friends of the Sultanate of Oman, this distinctive signature gives the dial a significance beyond its unusual colour. Such examples hold particular appeal for collectors interested in specially commissioned Rolex watches, although the original recipient and presentation history of this individual watch are not established here.

Internally, the watch is powered by the self-winding Rolex Calibre 3055, offering approximately 48 hours of power reserve. Completing the composition is the matching yellow gold President bracelet, an enduring element of the Day-Date’s identity.

With its classical dimensions, vivid blue dial, and Omani signature, this ref. 18038 brings together the familiar elegance of the Day-Date and the distinctive character of a Khanjar-signed example.

Rolex – bio

Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London, initially as Wilsdorf & Davis Ltd. Renamed Rolex by 1908 and moved its base of operations to Geneva, Switzerland in 1919.  Their success is due to their innovation namely the legendary “Oyster” case – first water resistant watch and their extremely reliable movements.
The most famous models are Datejust, Day-Date, Daytona, Explorer, GMT-Master, Submariner and many more.
The company is owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, a family private trust.
One story, never confirmed by Wilsdorf, recounts that the name came from the French words “horlogerie exquise”‘è, meaning “exquisite clockwork”