We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
A refined choice for a black-tie gala or milestone celebration, this 1962 Rolex Day-Date 36mm in 18k yellow gold lends timeless prestige to evening attire. With its champagne dial and brown leather strap, it delivers a sophisticated statement at formal dinners, weddings, and exclusive events.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the Rolex Day‑Date 36mm Ref. 1803 (1962)? A: It’s a vintage, Swiss‑made Rolex in solid 18ct yellow gold with a 36mm Oyster case, fluted bezel, champagne dial, and the signature day at 12 o’clock and date at 3 o’clock (under the Cyclops). This example is paired with a brown leather strap and houses an automatic movement, circa 1962.
Q: Which movement does a 1962 Day‑Date 1803 typically use? A: Early 1803 models commonly use the automatic Rolex Calibre 1555 (18,000 vph), featuring non‑quickset day and date. Later 1803s can be found with Calibre 1556. Hacking seconds may not be present on early pieces. We’re happy to confirm the exact calibre and functionality in this specific watch on request.
Q: How do I set the time, day and date safely on a non‑quickset Day‑Date? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: wind (about 20–40 turns if the watch has stopped). Position 2: set the time. Advance the hands past midnight to change both the day and date. To advance the date more quickly, roll the hands back to roughly 8–9pm, then forward past midnight repeatedly. Do not change the date between about 8pm and 2am to avoid damaging the mechanism. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly.
Q: Does the 1803 have sapphire or acrylic crystal, and is there a Cyclops? A: The 1803 Day‑Date from this era typically features an acrylic crystal with Rolex’s Cyclops lens over the date. Acrylic can show light marks over time; a professional can polish minor scuffs. We can confirm the crystal type on this exact watch upon request.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I swim with it? A: While the Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres, water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed without recent gasket replacement and pressure testing. Treat it as splash‑resistant at best: avoid swimming, showering and submersion. Always keep the crown fully screwed down, and keep the leather strap dry to preserve its condition.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the strap be changed? A: This watch fits a wrist up to approximately 20cm. The leather strap is adjustable via the buckle holes and can be swapped for other straps; the 36mm Day‑Date typically uses 20mm lug width. Many collectors also fit a genuine Rolex President bracelet to 1803 cases; sourcing the correct bracelet/end links is subject to availability—contact us and we’ll advise options.
Q: What makes the Day‑Date 1803 special, and how does it compare to later models? A: The 1803 is an icon often nicknamed “The President,” celebrated for its 36mm proportions, fluted bezel and classic pie‑pan dial era aesthetics. Compared with later references like the 18038 (late 1970s onward), the 1803 typically has an acrylic crystal and non‑quickset calendar, while the 18038 introduced sapphire and a quickset mechanism.
Q: What accuracy and service interval should I expect? A: A well‑maintained vintage Rolex should keep good time, though tolerances vary with age and service history. A routine service every 5–10 years is generally recommended, or sooner if you notice issues with accuracy or moisture resistance. Keep the watch away from strong magnets and wipe it with a soft microfibre cloth after wear. All A Retro Tale watches include a 12‑month mechanical guarantee.
Q: Can you confirm the reference, production year and day language? A: Reference and serial are typically stamped between the lugs (bracelet/strap must be removed). This piece is dated to 1962 (serial 785400). Rolex offered day wheels in many languages; we can confirm the language fitted to this watch and provide close‑up photos on request.
Q: What is included, and what are your authenticity, warranty and shipping terms? A: This listing is delivered with no accessories unless otherwise stated. A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every watch and guarantees 100% originality. We provide a 12‑month movement guarantee, free fully insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers. Contact us for any specific delivery, documentation or warranty questions.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
The shipping fee will be clearly shown during the checkout process. In some cases—such as during promotions or depending on your delivery location—shipping costs may vary. If no special rates apply, the standard international shipping fee of $49 will be charged.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
• 18k yellow gold case, 36mm
• Fluted bezel
• Champagne dial with day and date display
• Brown leather strap
• Automatic movement
• Vintage, circa 1962
