For sale is a Unique Rolex Day-Date 36mm Ref. 18108 from 1986 with a less common Bark Finish & Rare Japanese Script.
Bark Finish:
Rolex Day-Date "Bark" watches are a distinct variation of the iconic Rolex Day-Date model. The "Bark" nickname refers to the unique texture which resembles the bark of a tree. This texture can be seen on the bezel and the centre links of the president bracelet. The pattern is created through a specialized technique that gives the watch a distinctive and tactile aesthetic.
Diamond Bezel & Dial:
The Day-Date 18108 features 12 factory-set brilliant cut diamonds on the bezel with each diamond set in line with the hour markers. The black lacquer dial is beautifully contrasted against the gold case and features factory-set diamond and baguette hour markers which compliment the diamonds on the bezel. The lume plots have aged tastefully to a nice yellow tone which matches the aesthetic of the watch and enhances the vintage aesthetic.
Japanese Kanji Day Script:
The standout feature of this 18108 is the Japanese Kanji Scipt which displays the day of the week at the 12 o’clock position.
Rolex is known for having offered the Day-Date with several language configurations for different markets, such as Arabic, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish, German, Italian, and more. The Kanji day wheel was primarily produced for the Japanese market and is from the rarer configurations which especially stands out for its unique aesthetic.
The date at 3 O’clock remains in Arabic numerals. The date was never offered in Kanji primarily due to the fact that it would be impossible to fit the numbers in Kanji in such a small window.
Movement:
The 18108 is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3055, a self-winding automatic movement. This movement was a significant upgrade over its predecessors because it introduced the quickset date feature, allowing the date to be adjusted independently of the time. This was a considerable convenience compared to older models.
President Bracelet:
The watch comes equipped with the iconic President bracelet which is an essential part of the Day-Date's identity and is synonymous with its reputation as a high-status timepiece. The President bracelet has a three-piece link design with the centre having the Bark finish to match the Bark bezel.
The bracelet is in excellent condition having very little stretch to it which is hard to find for a watch of this age and demonstrates how well it has been maintained.
The watch is in overall excellent condition for its age with honest signs of wear and tear. The case, lugs, bezel and bracelet are all sharp and remain in original condition, likely never having been polished.
The watch is in full working order and is sold with the original Rolex box, booklets & red swing tag.
Included with the watch:
- Original Box: Yes
- Original Papers: No
Technical Data:
- Model: 18108
- Year: 1986
- Case material: Yellow Gold
- Case diameter: 36mm
- Bracelet: President ‘Bark’
- Bracelet material: Yellow Gold
- Dial: Black Diamond
- Crystal: Sapphire
Movement:
Rolex Automatic self-winding movement
Please note that international customers are responsible for any customs fees, duties, or taxes that may apply to their order upon delivery.
