Model Reference
PRE-OWNED ROLEX 1803 DAY DATE WATCHES
Production Years:
Rolex Day Date 1803 is a watch from the early years of the range, first offered by Rolex in 1956. The Day Date introduced a calendar format with a full spelling of the days of the week alongside a date window.
The provided historical information about manufacturing puts reference number 1803 between 1958 and 1978. The contemporary historical information by Rolex Corporation does not list production dates for the discontinued 1803, therefore those dates cannot be regarded as verified by Rolex Corporation.
From the historical information by Rolex, what could be stated is the significance of the era when 1803 was produced. The Day Date model was unique at that time for its gold case and connection with the President bracelet.
Defining Features
Precious metal has been integral to the Day Date line from inception itself. Rolex claims that its entire line-up has always been crafted out of gold or platinum, unlike other Rolex lines that have been offered in steel.
This particular reference number is related to the classic 36 mm size of the Day Date. These watches have a very vintage look to them, and their features distinguish them from the features of modern versions of this same model. Some masterpieces of the 1803 have also been known to have what is called the pie pan dial as a result of the dial’s outer rim shape, which is collector parlance and not the term used by Rolex itself currently.
The calendar is another element of the watch that stands out. It shows the complete name of the day of the week through an aperture at 12 o'clock, whereas the date is displayed separately at 3 o'clock.
The President bracelet has an equally strong connection with the model. Rolex created the semi circular three piece link bracelet for the launch of the Day Date, and its precious metal construction became closely associated with the watch. Vintage 1803 watches can also be encountered on straps, giving the reference a different appearance from those fitted with a President bracelet.
About Rolex Day-Date Model Number 1803
Reference 1803 is a more early model of the Day Date compared to the watches produced by Rolex currently. The attraction of such watches lies in the preservation of the design principles of the model expressed in the proportions and style of an earlier time period.
Indeed, the full display of days is the integral part of the character of such a watch. At the time of introducing the Day Date in 1956, Rolex stated that this was the first wristwatch showing the day of the week spelt in full and besides showing the date. This idea became lasting, and the same principle is used in the Day Date watches today.
The usage of precious metals is the other common characteristic connecting 1803 with later models. Indeed, Rolex has always been using this principle in the history of its collection. Only the Day Date watch remains to be made of gold or platinum only.
The President bracelet is the other characteristic connecting reference 1803 with the origin of the model. Specifically, the bracelet was developed for Day Date watches from their very launch and it became one of the most recognizable elements of the collection.
Age naturally makes the condition and configuration of an individual 1803 particularly relevant. A watch that has existed for several decades may have undergone servicing or other changes during its lifetime, so the individual timepiece deserves careful consideration alongside the reference itself.
At a Glance
- 36mm Oyster case
- President bracelet or leather strap
- Yellow gold or platinum case and bracelet
- Dial in gold, silver, black, white, and more
- Rolex 1500 calibre with automatic movement
- Water-resistant to 10 ATM
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Source Pre-Owned Rolex Day-Date 1803 Watches
BQ Watches is the best watch showroom to go to when you want to source a pre-owned Rolex Day-Date 1803 watch. Our team will go above and beyond to produce the watch you’ve had your eye on. We also have an amazing inventory of vintage, modern, rare, and unique watches from the best luxury watch brands in the world. In our inventory, you can find Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, Bremont, Audemars Piguet, Panerai, and many more. We’re also happy to source you any brand that we don’t carry.
All you need to do is let our team know the brand and model of the watch you want. You can always rely on BQ Watches to provide an unforgettable customer service experience.
Why Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex Day Date 1803?
The pre-owned Rolex Day-Date 1803 is a true vintage classic, combining understated prestige with the character of a watch produced during one of Rolex’s most celebrated periods. Crafted exclusively in precious metals, it features a 36mm case, distinctive pie-pan dial and the signature day and date displays, making it instantly recognisable on the wrist.
Buying pre-owned is the only way to own this discontinued reference, with examples available in a range of metals, dial configurations and bracelet options. Its timeless proportions, historical significance and strong collector appeal make the Day-Date 1803 an excellent choice for anyone seeking a refined vintage Rolex with genuine individuality.
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When you’re in the market for a luxury timepiece, BQ Watches is the best place to find what you need. We are more than just a provider of luxury timepieces, as we also offer a full suite of services. In addition to providing an excellent place to buy pre-loved Rolex Day-Date 1803 watches, we also are happy to purchase your watch if you’d like to sell. We can make a cash offer or give you an exchange value toward your next purchase with us.
BQ Watches also offers services for cleaning, repair, and appraisal. Whatever you need, you can find it here. And don’t hesitate to take advantage of our sourcing services. If our current inventory doesn’t include exactly what you want, we’ll find the right watch and procure it for you.
Simply fill out our contact form below and let us know how we can help with your second-hand Rolex Day-Date 1803 wristwatches. We look forward to getting in touch soon.
Why Choose BQ Watches for a Pre Owned Rolex Day Date 1803?
A Day Date 1803 may have been through decades of ownership, so two watches carrying the same reference can tell quite different stories. The dial, case, President bracelet and overall condition all deserve close attention when you are ready to buy. At BQ Watches, we can take you through these details and help you understand the particular watch you are considering.
Perhaps there is already a 1803 in your collection. Its age makes an individual appraisal particularly useful, as the assessment can take the characteristics of the watch itself into account rather than looking at the reference number in isolation.
You may instead have reached the point where you want to sell your Day Date. BQ Watches can assess the watch as it stands today and provide a straightforward route for moving it on.
For collectors whose tastes have changed, an exchange can put an existing 1803 towards something different. That could mean another generation of the Day Date, a different Rolex model or a luxury watch from another manufacturer.
Even when you have no immediate plans to part with the watch, knowing its current valuation can still be worthwhile. Vintage Rolex watches can differ significantly according to their individual characteristics, making a watch specific assessment more meaningful than a general figure attached to the reference.
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