18038 Day-Date (thick case version / Venezuela D’Agosto / fat lume / full set)

Brand: Rolex
Model: Day-Date
Reference: 18038
Year: 1980
Serialnumberr: 6193XXX
Material: 18 Karat Yellow Gold
Bracelet: 18 Karat Yellow Gold
Diameter: 36 Millimeter
Condition: very good
Box&Papers: yes, full set

Wonderful unpolished 18038 Day-Date for the South American market with a “thick case,” “fat lume” dial, and D’Agosto bracelet for Rolex.

A wonderful “thick case” in its unpolished condition. These cases are described as thick because they are significantly more substantial than other 18038 cases from the factory. You can recognize them by their generally very robust shape and, above all, by the wide gap between the bezel and the winding crown.

I personally really appreciate these cases. The look on the wrist is simply a touch more exciting and present.

As the pictures show, the case is unpolished and truly magnificent. Perfect proportions, super sharp edges, a great matte finish and only light signs of wear.

Another cool feature is the “fat lume” dial. As you’ve already noticed in the pictures, the lume on the dial is large, very large indeed. This is a feature of the early 18038 with the T Swiss T dial and gives the watch even more presence on the wrist. Depending on the light, the dial ranges in color from champagne to lemon and shows slight signs of age around the hands and the lume material. These are only visible from a specific angle and are to be expected, as all dials of this type have them.

The hands are in excellent condition, the bezel is razor-sharp and the sapphire crystal is perfect.

This fantastic early 18038 comes from Venezuela. It has been sold on February 9, 1981, by rolex authorized dealer Joyeria Gamili in Caracas.

Box, papers, booklet, calendar and the original pouch with the serial number inside. A cool set.

Another highlight is the President bracelet. Due to customs and import restrictions, Rolex had bracelets produced regionally for the South American market in the 1970s and 80s by the company D’Agosto. These bracelets are simply rare, cool and have a wonderful charm. The bracelet, like the watch, is unpolished, shows no stretch and with 22 links fits wrists up to 18.5 cm in circumference.

Conclusion: Simply a cool watch. Rare features and in top condition. It makes you dream of South America in the 80s.