Rolex Day-Date 1802 'Geometric guilloche'

Persuading patterned dial in an awe-inspiring Day-Date configuration.

Every Day-Date that does not instantly look like a Day-Date is special by default. Starting with the case that has a slightly more unusual bezel. Instead of the fluted variant, the 1802 displays a smooth and domed one. The bezel and case are very strong for a specimen over half a century old.

It would be a shame to see such a special watch with an "ordinary" President bracelet. Enter this meticulously crafted, yet sturdy woven band; dating back to the same year as the watch. Not only is the construction ingeniously solid, it's also a feast for the eyes due to the mouthwatering -rope like- finish.

After concluding the case and bracelet are uncommon, we take a look at the most important aspect: the dial. Occasionally seasoned Rolex collectors come across these artisanal "pie-pan" dials that feature a guilloche pattern. Finding one of these always sparks enthusiasm and this execution has not been seen before. (as far as we know) Vertical bars running through the centre, surrounded by six lines in a dodecagonal shape. The indices are small brilliant cut diamonds and it lacks the usual baguette-shaped 6 and 9 hour marker. This dynamic canvas is a piece of art. The tritium plots on the periphery of the sloped dial aged to a pumpkin colour, just like the inlay of the hands. This dynamic canvas is a piece of art. Just to add a little extra punch, the rare day disc installed is in Latin

It does not necessarily come as a surprise that it is very well preserved. Owners of such pieces tend to have large collections so not a lot of "wrist time" is allocated per watch. The previous owner has at least 5 other Day-Dates from this period (with different geometric dials) and we are happy it found our way to Amsterdam from Italy. This example being the second yellow gold 1802 from his assortment, the other -we sold earlier this year- also sported a spectacular bracelet.