Rolex Day-Date "Russian"

The Rolex Day-Date reference 18238 represents the model's transition into the modern era, introduced in the late 1980s as the successor to the acrylic-crystal 18038. Powered by the calibre 3155 with double-quickset functionality and topped with sapphire crystal, the 18238 ran throughout the 1990s as the flagship of the Rolex catalogue. What sets this particular vintage Day-Date apart is the combination of two unusual options that rarely appear together: a Cyrillic Russian day disc, ordered by only a small portion of the market, and the sculpted pyramid dial, a three-dimensional black surface with geometric facets that catch light in a way no flat dial can replicate.

This 1995 example is presented in 18k yellow gold, fitted with the fluted bezel and signed crown that define the Day-Date silhouette. The textured pyramid dial is in black, with applied yellow gold Roman numerals and matching baton hands. The date appears at three beneath the cyclops, while the day aperture at twelve displays the days of the week in Russian. The watch is delivered with its original Rolex box; no papers are present.

The 36mm case shows notably thick and sharp lugs, with strong overall proportions. The dial and handset appear original to the watch, with no visible flaws to the pyramid surface or printing. The case shows minor signs of wear consistent with regular use. Professional polishing can be arranged free of charge upon request.

The watch is fitted on a black leather strap with a Rolex yellow gold-plated pin buckle bearing the crown signature.