The Rolex Day-Date President, a watch synonymous with prestige and power, holds a special place in horological history. Within its esteemed lineage, the reference 118238, distinguished by its 36mm 18k yellow gold case and striking olive green dial, stands as a particularly coveted model. This article will delve deep into the intricacies of the Rolex 118238, exploring its production years, design heritage, price fluctuations, and how it compares to its successor, the reference 128238. We’ll also examine a specific example: a 2022 RSC (Rolex Service Center) serviced watch currently listed on Chrono24 for $29,993 + $175 shipping.
Rolex 118238 Production Years and Year Made:
Pinpointing the exact production years of the Rolex 118238 is challenging due to Rolex's notoriously tight-lipped approach to production details. However, based on serial number analysis and collector databases, the 118238 was produced primarily during the late 1990s and early 2000s. The specific year of manufacture for an individual watch is determined by its serial number, etched subtly between the lugs. These serial numbers follow a system that evolved over time, making precise dating possible for those with the necessary knowledge or access to comprehensive Rolex serial number databases. The example listed on Chrono24, a "Z" serial watch serviced in 2022, points to a production year sometime between approximately 2007 and 2009. This highlights the longevity and enduring appeal of the model, even years after its production ceased. The "Z" serial indicates a relatively late production run within the 118238's lifespan.
Rolex Day-Date 118238: Original Design and Heritage
The Rolex 118238 represents a classic iteration of the Day-Date President. Its design elements are firmly rooted in the model's rich history. Introduced in 1956, the Day-Date was designed as a supremely luxurious watch, intended for the world's most influential figures. The 36mm case size, while smaller than some modern sports watches, was considered substantial and elegant in its time and remains a preferred size for many today. The 118238's 18k yellow gold construction reflects the Day-Date's inherent opulence, a material choice that speaks to enduring quality and sophistication.
The olive green dial, a key characteristic of the 118238, is a captivating feature. Its subtle yet vibrant hue complements the yellow gold beautifully, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing combination. The dial's design typically features applied baton hour markers, a date window at 3 o'clock, and a day window at 12 o'clock, all executed with Rolex's renowned attention to detail. The presence of a cyclops magnifying lens over the date window is another hallmark of the Day-Date design, enhancing readability.
current url：https://wbpmls.k286t.com/products/rolex-118238-new-58442