Description

The present watch is the Rolex Day‑Date 36 reference 118339, a white‑gold execution that pairs the President’s iconic complications with a striking hard‑stone dial. Crafted in 18 ct white gold at 36 mm, the case frames a natural lapis lazuli dial whose deep ultramarine matrix is punctuated by diamond hour markers—each stone set to highlight the unique gold-flecked character and veining of the lapis. Day at 12 and date at 3 maintain the model’s signature symmetry and everyday utility.

Inside is Rolex’s automatic movement delivering hours, minutes, seconds, and the instantaneous day‑date display, engineered for chronometric reliability and robust daily wear. The 118339 reference is distinguished by its precious‑metal casework and refined profiles, complemented by the classic fluted or smooth bezel variants found within the white‑gold Day‑Date lineage.

Combining the gravitas of the President with the rarity of a natural hard‑stone dial, this “Lapis” Day‑Date offers an opulent yet timeless presence—an ideal 36 mm proportion with the sparkle of diamonds set against midnight‑blue stone, and the enduring functionality that has defined the Day‑Date since 1956.

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”.