Rolex
Day-Date
Ref. 1803

Rolex Day-Date reference 1803 from 1970 in condition like new. The outstanding feature of this exceptional vintage Day-Date is its rare red Stella dial, one of the most desirable and valuable dial variations found within the classic Day-Date collection. The famous Stella dials appeared during the 1970s and differed dramatically from the traditional metallic Rolex dials of the period. Intensely coloured lacquers were used, with pigments mixed by hand and applied in several layers. This elaborate process created the characteristic deep, highly glossy surface with an almost enamel-like appearance. Due to the hand-finished nature of the process, even dials of the same colour can display subtle differences in tone and intensity. The name “Stella” is now widely associated with the Swiss supplier that provided the special coloured lacquers and pigments used by Rolex’s dial manufacturers. These extraordinary dials were offered in a range of vibrant colours, including red, oxblood, coral, turquoise, green, blue, orange and yellow. At the time, such vivid colours were highly unconventional and considerably less popular than traditional champagne, silver or black dials. As a result, well-preserved original examples are exceptionally difficult to find today. Red Stella dials in particular are among the most sought-after variations. Their intense colour and dramatic contrast against a yellow gold case give the Day-Date an unmistakable presence. Well-preserved red examples are accordingly highly prized on the international collectors’ market and rank among the most valuable Stella configurations of the reference 1803. Combined with its early 1970 production year and remarkably well-preserved condition, this Day-Date represents an exceptional collector’s piece and a particularly distinctive example from one of the most fascinating periods in Rolex history.