Day-Date - 1803 vs 18238 advice

[Warregl]

Hi all,

I am considering another Rolex and I am looking for some advice. I have always wanted a gold Day-Date and I am looking at two at Bob’s. One is an 1803 from ~1956 and the other is an 18238 from ~1996. The double quickset on the 18238 is definitely a plus for convenience but my question is this, is there a greater long term value to the 1803 as it is an older watch?

I know these aren't collectors pieces and I'm not buying for that per se but I am trying to consider all of the pluses and minuses. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

I've been a lurker for years and I appreciate all of the expertise and passion from the members. Thanks for your time and comments.

[ronricks]

The value of the 1803 is going to be dependent on it having the original dial, handset, bracelet etc. many of them have had all 3 replaced over the years.

[L.K Johnson]

I would go with the 1803 model just for the sleeker case and the pie pan dial which gives the watch some character...of you need functionality I would choose the solid six digit DD over the 18238...

[bradleyt09]

Here's another vote for the 1803. I love the pie pan dial and acrylic crystal.

[nachopc]

1803, I’m in love with it, this watch is like candy.


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[jgottsman11]

I'd go 1803. But if you can afford it, the 118238 is the king. The weight of it is amazing and feels super special with the solid links and updated clasp.

[athom]

1803 is my fav non-professionnal Rolex model, very elegant and beautiful, either gold or white gold, on steel bracelet or leather, the best ref imho

[BNA/LION]

18238 would be my choice. I had one for years and Loved It! Just moved to a 40mm 228238 myself. Good Luck!

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by nachopc

1803, I’m in love with it, this watch is like candy.

Candy indeed. That's a nice one.

1803 all day for me. Loads of vintage character and very reliable. The day/date takes a couple of minutes at maximum to set, contrary to what you might hear, so the quick set function isn't a thing for me.

[barneb10]

I really like the 18238: lighter weight, proportions, brushed case, less polished parts, etc. Makes the 18238 a very attractive and classic watch.

After holding a 18238 and 118238 in each hand, the weight difference was negligible. Bracelet stretch is also contingent upon the owner's care of the watch (ie, wash after use, tight fit).

Does RSC still support and service 1803? The 1803 does not have any quickset. It will take a few spins on the crown to set the day and date.

You can't go wrong with either. Good luck!

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by barneb10

Does RSC still support and service 1803?

Yes.

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by BNA/LION

Just moved to a 40mm 228238 myself.

Now, how can you tease us like that and not provide a pic?

[carwashchris]

A 1956 1803 ?? That seems early to me. I thought they started 59-60 ish. In any case there were on some earlier versions a movement { can't remember the # } but it was not strong enough to change both the day and date at the same time. Ask what movement it has should be a 3055 or 3056

I like the 1803 hands down, even if it is a PIA to change day/date. But as said they will continue to rise in value only if you find one with a original dial,hands and in great shape.

The 5 digit is a great piece and more of them out there with there bracelets.

Happy hunting Chris

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by carwashchris

A 1956 1803 ?? That seems early to me.

Yes. They started in 1959. Maybe someone's referenced one of those questionable serial number lists.

[BNA/LION]

Originally Posted by zapokee

Now, how can you tease us like that and not provide a pic?

Here You Go!

[carwashchris]

Just looked at the watch, ask them to re verify the serial number. They show it as a 14x,xxx but I think it's a 1,4xx,xxx that would make sence after looking at the watch.

Chris

[carwashchris]

Originally Posted by BNA/LION

Here You Go!

That's some serious teasing !!!

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by BNA/LION

Here You Go!

That's more like it! Beautiful pieces.

[mineral]

1803 get my vote.


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[L.K Johnson]

Hard to beat 1803:

[iliketime]

i gotta go with the double quickset just for convenience sake. unless this is gonna be a daily wearer

[barneb10]

Originally Posted by L.K Johnson

Hard to beat 1803:

Classy


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[L.K Johnson]

Originally Posted by barneb10

Classy


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Thx! The fave in my collection...it’s a model that just gives zero f***s somehow...it just role “sleeper-ish” without making any noise what so ever : )

[Richard Carver]

Mmmmm 18XX

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by Richard Carver

Mmmmm 18XX

The 1802 is king! That one's in excellent condition.

#carverforpresident

[carwashchris]

Originally Posted by Richard Carver

Mmmmm 18XX

That would look so nice at my house. 😁

[carwashchris]

Those are CB hands ? Am I right ?

Beautiful watch Richard.

[pablofields]

Originally Posted by carwashchris

Those are CB hands ? Am I right ?

Beautiful watch Richard.

Indeed.

I was just about to ask if those are cigarette boat hands.

My favorite DD hands

[Richard Carver]

Originally Posted by carwashchris

Those are CB hands ? Am I right ?

Beautiful watch Richard.

They are, it's a 64 1807 with an 1802 bezel.

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by Richard Carver

They are, it's a 64 1807 with an 1802 bezel.

Beautiful piece of history. Does it need a service to center that day wheel in the top window, or had it just not finished turning because it was early morning?