.png){kind=small}
The Rolex Day-Date is universally recognized as the ultimate symbol of success and refinement, but to the vintage collector, the Reference 1803 in solid 18k yellow gold represents the absolute golden era of the "President." This particular example from 1976 features the highly coveted, vintage "stepped" (or pie-pan) dial design, which adds an incredible sense of depth and architectural complexity that modern flat dials simply cannot replicate.
Rendered with a crisp white dial, solid gold indices, and beautifully matching tritium plots and hands, this piece offers a strikingly clean and elegant look. Adding to its regional charm and collector appeal, it is equipped with its original German day wheel. The 18k yellow gold case remains remarkably strong with sharp edges and a fluted bezel that has escaped the over-polishing so common with this reference. Fitted on its original 18k yellow gold President bracelet—which shows honest vintage stretch but remains structurally strong and highly wearable—and accompanied by its original red Rolex presentation box, this is a beautiful execution of the flagship Rolex model.
Rolex Day Date | White Dial | ref. 1803 from 1976
BRAND: Rolex
MODEL: Day-Date "President"
REFERENCE: 1803
YEAR: 1976
MOVEMENT: Automatic Calibre 1556
CASE DIMENSIONS: 36mm
CASE MATERIAL: 18k Yellow Gold
GLASS: Acrylic Plexiglass
BRACELET: Original Rolex President 18k Yellow Gold Bracelet
CLASP: Original Rolex Concealed Folding Crown-clasp
BOX & PAPERS: Yes (Original red 60.00.02 Rolex box) + Hangtag
TAX: Differential taxation according to §24 UStG
MOVEMENT: Calibre 1556 automatic chronometer movement with day and date functions. Running strong and keeping accurate time, though the service history is currently unknown.
DIAL: Original white "pie-pan" stepped dial in excellent condition. Features solid gold indices and completely intact original tritium lume plots that have aged beautifully.
GLASS: Acrylic plexiglass crystal with cyclops magnifier, preserved in great condition.
HANDS: Original solid gold tritium handset, beautifully preserved and matching the dial patina.
CASE: Solid 18k yellow gold case in strong condition, displaying sharp edges, thick lugs, and excellent lines. The fluted gold bezel is crisp and has not been overly polished.
CROWN: Original 18k yellow gold Twinlock crown, screwing down securely and operating flawlessly.
