Rolex Day-Date 18038 - A timeless icon with a rare "Havana" dial and unmistakable presence.

The Rolex Day-Date stands at the pinnacle of vintage elegance — and this 1981 Ref. 18038 is an especially captivating example. Housed in a solid 18k yellow gold case, this model pairs the classic proportions of the Day-Date with one of the most desirable dial executions of the era: a golden brown so called "Havana" dial. A warm brown-to-tobacco colored dial with a tropical appearance. The name comes from the rich color of Cuban cigars and aged Havana tobacco. Its warm surface catches the light beautifully and adds a refined character that sets it apart from standard configurations.

The watch retains all the qualities that make the 18038 so sought after: a balanced 36 mm case, fluted bezel, and the legendary Caliber 3055 — a robust, smooth-running movement known for reliability and precision.

This Day-Date blends sophistication, rarity, and understated luxury in equal measure.

- wrist size in our picture is 18cm circumference -

DIAL:

• original never touched rare golden brown "Havana" dial in great condition
• original hands and Rolex crown
  
• day wheel is in English language
• original lume on dial with some slight aging around them
• hands have been relumed in the past

STRAP & BUCKLE:

• brown KARDINAL Alligator Embossed Leather Watch Strap fitting up to 20 cm wrist size / 3.7 mm thick
• gold plated GOLDAMMER buckle

CASE:

• excellent overall condition, showing minor traces of use
• 3- body 18k yellow gold (Genex SA) case with screw-down case back
  
• 36 mm (without crown) / 44 mm (lug-to-lug) / 20 mm (between lugs) 12 mm thick
• year: 1981
• reference: 18038
• total weight: 74 g

MOVEMENT:

• Rolex Automatic Caliber 3055
• 27 jewels, 28800 A/h, 42 hours power reserve
  
• professionally serviced 03/2026
• +4 sec/d / 280°

BOX & PAPERS:

• GOLDAMMER certificate of authenticity & service documentation card
• GOLDAMMER box

GOLDAMMER REFERENCE: #1535