18238 Day-Date (spectacular condition / like NOS / full set / from a roman family)

Brand: Rolex
Model: Day-Date
Reference: 18238
Year: 1994
Serialnumber: X698XXX
Material: 18 Karat Yellow Gold
Bracelet: 18 Karat Yellow Gold
Diameter: 36 Millimeter
Condition: very good
Box&Papers: yes, full set

A wonderful and perfectly preserved 18238 “Double Quick” Day-Date, directly from the original owner’s family.

The case is simply perfect: absolutely unpolished, with razor-sharp edges and proportions. Its pristine condition is further confirmed by the fully intact caseback sticker; the watch was worn so sparingly that even the golden print on the green sticker remains visible.

Thanks to a friend’s help, I was able to acquire the watch directly from the original owner’s family in Rome. They confirmed that it was worn only on very special occasions, such as holidays or anniversaries.

The gold sunray-cut dial is in perfect condition, featuring sharp print and intact lume dots that have developed a rich, bold vanilla patina. The hands are equally perfect, showing a patina that harmonizes beautifully with the dial.

Just as the case, the bezel is unpolished and razor-sharp.

This magnificent watch comes as a full set with box and papers. It has been sold in March 1998 by rolex authorized dealer MONETTI & C. srl in Rome. The scope of delivery is including the original box with outer carton, calendar, Day-Date booklet, and silk scarf.

Another highlight is the 8385 President bracelet. Have you seen the photo showing the stretch? The bracelet has absolutely zero stretch—I have rarely seen one so well-preserved. The clasp crown is in perfect condition and the bracelet shows only light, superficial signs of wear. It comes with all 24 links; the clasp code “S9” (September 1994) confirms what I always say: Day-Date cases and bracelets were produced in batches—in this instance, the case dates to around 1991 and the bracelet to 1994, prior to the watch’s eventual sale. It then took another 3–4 years before this beauty could finally bring joy to its original owner for the rest of his life.

Conclusion: A true highlight for 2026. A watch of this quality, fresh to the market directly from the original owner’s family—finds like this are becoming increasingly rare.