Rolex Day-Date: The Ultimate Guide to the President’s Watch (2025)

Reading Time: 8 minutes
Last Updated: June 2025

Table of Contents

• What is the Rolex Day-Date?
• History of the Rolex Day-Date
• Why It’s Called the President’s Watch
• Day-Date vs. Datejust: What’s the Difference?
• Key Features of the Rolex Day-Date
• Best Rolex Day-Date Models in 2025
• Materials: Gold vs. Platinum
• Exotic Dial Options in 2025
• Is the Rolex Day-Date a Good Investment?
• How to Buy a Day-Date Watch
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Thoughts

What is the Rolex Day-Date?

The Rolex Day-Date is the brand’s flagship dress watch, the first to display both the date and the day of the week spelled out in full. It is only available in 18k gold or platinum.

History of the Rolex Day-Date

Launched in 1956, the Day-Date was Rolex's most innovative release. It quickly became iconic, especially after being seen on prominent figures like President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Why It’s Called the President’s Watch

The Day-Date earned the nickname "President’s Watch" after being worn by several U.S. presidents. Rolex later introduced the iconic President bracelet to match.

Day-Date vs. Datejust: What’s the Difference?

Feature	Day-Date	Datejust
Day Display	✅ Full Day	❌ No
Materials	Gold & Platinum Only	Includes Stainless Steel
Movement	Caliber 3255	Caliber 3235

Key Features of the Rolex Day-Date

• Day & date display
• 18k Gold or Platinum only
• Caliber 3255 movement
• 100m water resistance
• President bracelet

Best Rolex Day-Date Models in 2025

Day-Date 40 Ref. 228238: Yellow Gold with Champagne Dial
Day-Date 40 Ref. 228206: Platinum with Ice Blue Dial
Day-Date 36 Ref. 128235: Everose Gold with Green Aventurine Dial

Materials: Gold vs. Platinum

Gold: Available in Yellow, White, and Everose.
Platinum: Rare, heavier, and exclusive ice-blue dials.

Exotic Dial Options in 2025

• Meteorite
• Malachite
• Onyx
• Mother-of-Pearl
• Diamond-Pavé
• Aventurine

Is the Rolex Day-Date a Good Investment?

Yes. Models with rare dials or platinum builds tend to appreciate. Discontinued references also perform well over time.

How to Buy a Day-Date Watch

• Authorized Dealer: Official but with waitlists
• Trusted Grey Market: Immediate access with slight premium
• Auctions: Rare and vintage models

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the difference between Rolex Day-Date and Datejust?
A: Day-Date shows full day + date and is only made in precious metals.

Q: Is Rolex Day-Date a good investment?
A: Yes, especially rare or discontinued models.

Q: Why is it called the President’s Watch?
A: Multiple U.S. presidents have worn it; Rolex even created a special bracelet.

Q: Does Rolex make Day-Date in stainless steel?
A: No. Only in 18k gold or platinum.

Q: What size should I get — 36mm or 40mm?
A: 36mm for classic look; 40mm for modern wrist presence.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Day-Date is more than a watch — it’s a statement of legacy and leadership. With timeless style and solid investment potential, it remains one of Rolex’s most sought-after icons.