1988 Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18388 Full Diamond Set in 18k Yellow Gold

The Day-Date 18388 carries a particular weight among Rolex references. Factory-set diamonds across the bezel, lugs, and champagne gold dial place this 1988 example in a tier Rolex reserved for its most extravagant precious-metal production — and every stone is factory-original, not an aftermarket retrofit. That distinction is one serious collectors won't overlook.

Diamond hour markers replace conventional indices on the dial, paired with gold-tone hands and a contrasting black Roman numeral minute track around the perimeter. The day-of-the-week display sits at 12 o'clock. At 3 o'clock, the date window gets Rolex's Cyclops magnification lens. Fitted to the case is the President bracelet in matching 18k yellow gold, its center links polished and outer surfaces brushed, closing via a concealed folding clasp. Two bracelet links are currently missing — prospective buyers will want to account for that when thinking about wrist fitment, as additional links may be needed.

An automatic self-winding mechanical movement handles both the day and date complications. The dial sits behind a sapphire crystal, and the fluted winding crown bears the Rolex emblem, screw-down, as you'd expect. This piece comes as a full set with its original box and papers dating to 1988, offered out of New York.

Following the auction, the watch goes to Bennison Watch in West Palm Beach, Florida for authentication. Once cleared, the buyer pays the seller directly, then arranges either in-person collection or secure shipment. All tariffs, duties, customs, shipping, shipping insurance, handling, transactional fees, and any miscellaneous fees fall to the buyer. All information is the seller's responsibility; PCARMARKET does not assume liability for inaccuracies or for loss or damage that may occur in transit. A 6% buyer's premium applies, with a $300 minimum and a maximum cap of $3,000.