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.
An exceptional choice for gala nights, boardroom presentations, or milestone celebrations, this 1987 Rolex Day-Date 36mm in 18k yellow gold with a rare blue Aventurine dial and pinball diamond hour markers lends distinguished elegance, elevating black-tie ensembles and sharp suits.
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 this Rolex Day-Date 36mm (Ref. 18038) from 1987? A: It’s a Swiss‑made, 18k yellow gold Day‑Date with the iconic fluted bezel and President bracelet. This example features a very rare blue Aventurine dial with diamond hour markers, automatic movement, and comes as a full set with original box and certificate.
Q: Which movement does a 1987 Day-Date 18038 typically use? A: Most 1987 Day‑Date ref. 18038 watches house the Rolex Calibre 3055, an automatic chronometer movement with quickset date (the day advances by turning the hands past midnight). We can confirm the exact calibre in this piece on request.
Q: How do I set the time, day, and date on this model? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: wind (20–30 turns if stopped). Position 2: quickset the date. Position 3: set the time; rolling the hands past midnight will change the day. Avoid setting the date between roughly 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I swim with it? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres, but water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless the seals are renewed and the watch is tested by an authorised watchmaker. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down if exposed to moisture.
Q: Does this 18038 have a sapphire crystal and Cyclops? A: Day‑Date ref. 18038 models are typically fitted with a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal and the Cyclops magnifier over the date. We can verify the crystal on this specific watch if you wish.
Q: What is Aventurine and how should I care for the dial? A: Aventurine is a shimmering glass/mineral dial material prized for its sparkling inclusions. It’s rare and collectible. Avoid strong impacts, extreme temperature changes, and harsh chemicals. Clean gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth and keep the watch away from solvents and magnetic fields.
Q: Will the 36mm size suit my wrist, and is it unisex? A: 36mm is the classic Day‑Date size and wears elegantly on many wrists. While traditionally a men’s size, it is widely worn unisex today. This bracelet currently fits a wrist up to approximately 16 cm; contact us with your measurement for sizing advice.
Q: Can the President bracelet be resized, and are additional links available? A: Yes, we can size the bracelet for you. Extra links for vintage President bracelets can often be sourced, subject to availability and potential cost. Share your wrist size and we’ll advise options before shipping.
Q: How can I verify the reference and production year? A: The reference (18038) is typically between the lugs at 12 o’clock and the serial at 6 o’clock (bracelet removal required). The serial on this piece is R‑prefix, aligning with 1987 production. We’re happy to confirm these details and provide additional photos on request.
Q: What is included and how do you guarantee authenticity and warranty? A: This watch is delivered as a full set with original box and certificate. A Retro Tale specialises in authentic luxury vintage and guarantees 100% originality. All our watches include a 12‑month mechanical guarantee, secure insured shipping, and a 14‑day full refund policy.
SHIPPING TO THE US
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.
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 UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 2-4 business days.
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 all return shipments to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Retain your shipping receipt and tracking number until the return is completed and your refund is processed. Return shipping costs will be covered by A Retro Tale, and we will provide you with a prepaid return label.
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.
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.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
$47,570
• 18k yellow gold case and President bracelet (36mm)• Fluted bezel• Rare blue Aventurine dial with diamond hour markers• Automatic movement• Comes with original box and papers• Vintage (1987)
