Rolex Day-Date Stella Dial

There’s much to say about Rolex.

We can use descriptors like “robust,” “sporty,” “dependable.” We can talk about their history, and extol the quality of their products. We can tout their reputation as the most reputable company in the world, as they were recently declared by Forbes.

In the watch industry, Rolex has reserved itself a place in the pantheon of the greats. It’s a bright star in the firmament, the North Star for any brand looking for a model to base their business upon. For years, their commitment to excellence has resulted in a kind of uniformity, each watch meticulously designed and machined according to “the Rolex way,” giving them a distinctive look that’s wholly unto themselves.

But for all that a Rolex looks like a Rolex, you can’t say that they’re afraid of color.

When the Day-Date was introduced in the 1950s, Rolex wasn't making any other complicated wristwatches, so the success of the model was paramount. The manufacture spared no expense in making it well-made, both inside and out. Though the dials are most often seen in silver, champagne, or the occasional black, some dials from 70s models were created in vibrant colors which really brought them to life.

Referred to as “Stella” dials by collectors, (some believe due to the similarity of their colors to the palette used by American artist Frank Stella -- others believe that the Italian market nicknamed them "Stella", which translates to star in Italian) these bright dials appeared on Datejusts and Day-Dates in the 1970s. Crafted from multi-layered lacquered enamel, these dials are a veritable kaleidoscope of colors that seemed totally unlike anything the Crown has ever produced. Pink that would make even Elsa Schiaparelli blush, green as bright as freshly-picked mint leaves, and cerulean as deep as the waters off St. Tropez, just to name a few.

This, a Day-Date Reference 1803, features a color that’s among the most desirable of Stellas: oxblood.

Think of your favorite satchel or Oxfords of the finest cordovan leather. Think of their rich, warm hue, purple and brown all at once. Then imagine it on a watch—that’s what this is.

And this particular Stella 1803 is an utter time capsule. It comes complete with box, wallet, calendar, paperwork, hangtag and punched papers from Dubai dated 1976. On a custom Camille Fournet strap with gold Rolex buckle, and with a sharp case and gorgeous lume, saying its not your average Day-Date isn't nearly doing it justice. 

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.