The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date is a horological symbol of power and prestige

Every little — and not so little — detail in this Rolex watch adds to the legend of this timepiece, which symbolises power and prestige.

By Charmian Leong / 18 Oct 2022

Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 in an 18 ct Everose gold case, and a brown ombre dial set with diamonds.

horology, October 2022 Issue, Rolex, Timepieces

Share this article

Officially unveiled in 1956, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date was a major innovation at that time. It was functional, while retaining a strong sense of style and elegance.

It displays the day of the week spelt out in full in an arc-shaped window at 12 o'clock on the dial, in addition to the date. The Day-Date was a technical feat and has since established itself as an iconic timepiece.

Their simplicity and clarity belie the technical mastery required to ensure smooth operation. The day and date rely on two discs that turn both instantaneously and simultaneously through careful power distribution. It must be enough to activate both discs at the precise moment, but must also stop them in time so that they do not advance beyond the day.

Frequently seen on the wrists of American presidents

Rolex

1/2

The President bracelet, created specifically for the Day-Date, debuted through this timepiece. Serendipitously, American presidents were frequently seen wearing a Day-Date, and the watch quickly became known as the “presidents' watch”. The three-link President bracelet, made only from 18 ct gold or 950 platinum, remains exclusive to the Day-Date and precious metal versions of the Datejust to this day.

To ensure consistent quality in the casting of its gold and platinum, the brand set up its foundry in the 2000s. To give its 18 ct yellow, white and Everose gold exceptional brilliance and an unfading chroma, these metals are made from closely guarded formulations of gold and other alloys.

Related: The classic Rolex Day-Date gets a platinum update

Equipped with reliable chronometric precision

Rolex

2/2

In its 66-year history, the Day-Date has kept up with technical advancements to provide wearers with reliable chronometric precision. All current models are powered by the self-winding calibre 3255, a movement packed with in-house ingenuity, from the paramagnetic Parachrom hairspring and highly efficient Chronergy escapement to the high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers and a power reserve of approximately 70 hours.

With an array of dial, bezel and gem-set options, the Day-Date has easily found an audience across generations and continents. Even the days of the week are printed in a variety of writing systems and available in 26 languages. This isn't just a timepiece for presidents, but a symbol of success and personal expression for those who understand the value of a legacy.

Related: Rolex’s Lady-Datejust is a watch for powerful women

horology, October 2022 Issue, Rolex, Timepieces