SIGNED ROLEX, DAY-DATE MODEL, REF. 18068, CASE NO. 8'272'440, CIRCA 1984

Very few, perhaps only half a dozen examples of this important and luxurious gold Day-Date reference 18068 with factory-set diamonds and rubies are known to the market. The present watch is an excellent example with full case proportions and crisp clear hallmarks. Made in the early 1980s, this gem-set Rolex shows immense attention to even the smallest details, Rolex only uses the finest gemstones cut and matched to perfection which is demonstrated by the perfectly matched and specially shaped cut rubies on the bezel and for the hour indexes. The dial is pavé-set with diamonds and the days of the week and date displays are coloured red with gold numerals and lettering – extremely unusual among Rolex production. In order that the signature does not interrupt the glittering diamond dial, it is ingeniously inscribed in black on the crystal which ties in neatly with the black hands.

Combining the engineering prowess of horology with the elegance and refinement of haute jewellery, gem-set watches unite the best of two worlds. The aesthetic appeal of this superb vintage Day-Date is equal to its undisputed rarity as one of the most intriguing and collectible versions of the Day-Date model, unquestionably one of the key pieces among Rolex's vintage gem-set production.