Simply known as “The President,” the Day-Date watch has been Rolex’s most prestigious dress watch since its debut in 1956. While Rolex has updated the Day-Date over the years—particularly the mechanical movement—the watch has maintained much of its iconic style. This changed in 2008 when Rolex unveiled a larger version of the President with the Day-Date II with a 41mm case (a much larger option that the traditional Day-Date 36). Just seven years later in 2015, Rolex took the Day-Date II watches off the shelves and replaced it with the Rolex President Day-Date 40, with, you guessed it, a 40mm case.
Similar to all other Rolex President collections, the Day-Date 40 is exclusively made in precious metals. Let’s have a look at the Day-Date President 40 in all three shades of gold.
Everose Gold Rolex President Day-Date 40 ref. 228235
If you’re a fan of the warm hue of pink gold, there’s the Everose gold Day-Date 40 ref. 228235. From its 40mm case to its fluted bezel to its famous President bracelet, the Day-Date 228235 is crafted entirely in Rolex’s patented 18k pink gold alloy dubbed Everose—a material that promises never to fade.
A closer look at the dial reveals an attractive sunburst dial, providing a great contrast to the 18k pink gold Roman numerals. Of course, also on the dial is the familiar duo of windows—one for the day of the week at 12 o’clock and one for the date at 3 o’clock. Powering the newest larger Rolex President is the new-generation Cal. 3255 automatic movement with a practical 72 hours of power reserve.
Yellow Gold Rolex President Day-Date 40 ref. 228238
The yellow gold versions of the Day-Date watches are by far the most popular. It’s what most would imagine in their heads when you say “Rolex President.” And now, fans of the classic precious metal can opt for a larger yellow gold President with the Rolex Day-Date 40 ref. 228238.
Again, we have the famed fluted bezel on the 40mm yellow gold Oyster case, along with the President bracelet also in full 18k yellow gold. This time, the dial is a rich black color, which sets the perfect stage for the 10 baguette-cut diamond indexes. The ultimate status watch, it’s hard to beat the impression a large yellow gold and diamond Rolex President makes on the wrist.
White Gold Rolex President Day-Date 40 228239
If an understated Rolex President watch is what you’re looking for, then the white gold Rolex Day-Date 40mm 228239 is a solid bet. Fashioned entirely in 18k white gold, this Day-Date’s white metal color is subtler than its yellow gold and pink gold counterparts. But, make no mistake, it’s just as luxurious.
The white gold 40mm Oyster case comes with the customary fluted bezel and white gold President band with the signature semi-circular links. However, a sharp contrast to the cool metal construction of this Day-Date 40 is the vibrant blue dial at the center of the timepiece accented with white gold faceted Roman numeral indexes and, of course, the two calendar windows.
The Day-Date 40 is the ideal Rolex watch if you love the look of the President but found the traditional versions too small. A seamless blend of timeless style and modern sensibilities.
