The Rolex Day Date exists, first and foremost, as one of those watches which defies all industry categories and sits somewhere outside of the norm when it comes to practical use. It is not quite delicate and simple enough to be a classic everyday accessory like the Datejust, but it equally isn’t built with any of the specific features that make it a professional must-have like the GMT-Master and Submariner.
Having said that, the Day Date does boast an enviable reputation – and has, over time, become a hallmark watch in the Rolex collection which is just as famous as some of its biggest fans.
The Day Date is, in terms of its features, largely very similar to the Datejust timepiece. It features the same date reading in the 3 o’clock position but has an added spelled-out day of the week feature across the top of the watch face. This addition is said to have been integrated into the watch design to aid business people with quickly reading the day and the date, though over time the need for this feature became less functional and more about status.
Which makes this the perfect time to dive into the meaning behind the Day Date as being termed ‘The Presidents’ Watch’.
Why is the Day Date considered ‘the Presidents’ Watch’?
The Day Date owes much of its fame to the simple fact that it has become known as the President’s watch. This derives from the fact that it was the Day Date that both Presidents Johnson and Eisenhower chose to wear. Trump, Bill Clinton, and Richard Nixon are also said to have owned and worn Day Date Rolex watches, making this a staple of Presidential politics in the USA.
But what does this kind of notoriety do for the collection – and what does it tell us about the Day Date as an investment?
Is the Day Date a good investment piece?
You won’t be surprised to learn that every authentic Rolex is considered a good investment in so far as the value of the timepiece. Not only does Rolex benefit from a low-supply-high-demand model, but the popularity and notoriety of its pieces among high circles and high society means that everyday buyers want to invest in timepieces that their favourite celebrities and presidents wear.
The Day Date has become notorious as an everyday wristwatch which is preferred by those in office – giving it the name ‘the Presidents’ Watch’.
What’s interesting, however, is whether that comes from the features or from the status symbol that Rolex as a brand has become.
Rolex Day Date – features or status?
The features of the Rolex Day Date include the small date marker and the day indicator, which sit at 3 o’clock and 12 o’clock respectively. The oyster case has become standard in the Rolex manufacturing world, while the chunky bracelet and diverse selection of watch face finishes and colours.
One thing that’s worth noting about the Day Date specifically is the fact that Rolex hasn’t just launched a piece and then left it as is. This is one of the Rolex collections that has consistently benefited from investment into its design and mechanics, getting better over time. The chronometer is accurate, the watch face diameter has changed to become more balanced, and the integration of the 32XX calibre series of movements means that this watch is reliable to a tee. The Day Date bracelet is only available in precious metal, adding to its value and securing its balance of function and style.
Perhaps one of the leading features, however, is the fact that the Day Date boasts all the aesthetic hallmarks of an impressive wristwatch which delivers on the look that denotes status and wealth. Whether being worn by a president or a regular businessman, this is a watch which means business and makes the simplest details – the time, day, and date – easier than ever to access.
As an investment, it doesn’t get much more versatile than the Rolex Day Date. This is a watch that has become loved by Presidents and everyday wearers alike and for good reason – delivering on the function and style of a luxury, investment timepiece.
