Imagine the moment: a velvet-lined box opens to reveal a Rolex Day-Date 36, its diamond-set green dial catching the light with a brilliance that stops time itself. Since its introduction in 1956, the Day-Date has been more than a watch—it’s been a symbol of achievement, a companion to some of history’s most influential figures, and a canvas for Rolex’s relentless pursuit of perfection.
Known affectionately as the "President" watch, this iconic timepiece has now been reimagined in stunning yellow gold with a green dial that radiates both boldness and serenity. This is not just a watch—it’s a statement of artistry, innovation, and timeless elegance.
A Dial That Captivates
Green as a Statement of Bold Elegance
The star of this Day-Date 36 is its mesmerizing green dial, a hue that feels both timeless and strikingly contemporary. Picture the depth of an emerald forest or the polished surface of a rare jade stone—this green doesn’t merely sit on the dial; it draws you in, shifting subtly with the light to reveal its complexity. Adorning this vibrant backdrop are diamond hour markers, each one a tiny prism of perfection. Hand-set by Rolex’s master gemologists, these diamonds sparkle with a fire that elevates the watch from beautiful to breathtaking, creating a dance of light with every twist and turn of the wrist.
At 12 o’clock, the day window proudly spells out the day of the week in full—a signature feature that nods to the Day-Date’s global legacy, available in languages from English to Arabic. At 3 o’clock, the magnified date window, framed by the Cyclops lens, ensures clarity and practicality. Together, these elements blend form and function in a way that only Rolex can achieve, making this watch as useful as it is alluring.
Craftsmanship Beyond Compare
The Art of Diamond Setting
Rolex’s mastery of gem-setting transforms this Day-Date into a wearable jewel. The diamonds aren’t just embellishments—they’re a testament to a craft honed over decades. Each stone is chosen for its exceptional clarity and cut, then meticulously placed by artisans whose precision rivals that of the watchmakers themselves. The result? A dial that doesn’t just tell time—it tells a story of dedication and excellence, where every facet reflects Rolex’s uncompromising standards.
Encasing this masterpiece is a 36mm yellow gold case, its warm tones amplifying the dial’s vibrancy. The fluted bezel, a hallmark of the Day-Date line, catches the light with its sculpted edges, adding texture and tradition to the design. Paired with the President bracelet—its semi-circular links as comfortable as they are iconic—this watch drapes the wrist with a luxurious embrace, a reminder of Rolex’s ability to marry beauty with wearability.
A Legacy of Innovation
The Heart of the Day-Date
Beneath its elegant exterior beats the Caliber 3255, a movement that embodies Rolex’s engineering genius. Developed entirely in-house, this self-winding marvel holds 14 patents and delivers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours—enough to keep ticking through a long weekend undisturbed. Its precision, rated at -2/+2 seconds per day, exceeds the strictest chronometer standards, thanks to innovations like the blue Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers. Whether you’re navigating a bustling day or savoring a quiet evening, this movement ensures the Day-Date 36 performs with unflagging reliability.
The Day-Date’s story began in 1956, when Rolex unveiled the first watch to display both the day and date in full—a breakthrough that cemented its status as a pioneer. Worn by presidents, CEOs, and visionaries, it quickly became a symbol of power and prestige. Today’s green-dialed iteration builds on that legacy, proving that innovation can honor tradition while pushing boundaries.
A Timeless Icon Reimagined
The Rolex Day-Date 36 with its diamond-set green dial is a triumph of design and craftsmanship.
It’s a watch that bridges past and present, blending the heritage of the "President" with a modern palette that feels fresh yet eternal. For collectors, it’s a treasure; for wearers, it’s a companion that marks life’s greatest moments. As Rolex continues to redefine luxury, this timepiece stands as a testament to the brand’s artistry—a fusion of precision, passion, and the pursuit of the extraordinary.
Harmony of the elements. With a bezel set with 60 trapeze-cut diamonds and a vibrant green dial with 10 baguette-cut diamond hour markers, this Day-Date 36 in 18ct yellow gold exemplifies Rolex’s gem-setting expertise and exceptional design. Gold, green, and sparkle. The ultimate Rolex prestige. Rolex's MSRP on this Reference 128398TBR is $85,200.
Historically Rolex has always been extremely secretive and discreet, and no journalists in the past have ever been invited "INSIDE ROLEX" to explore and report on all four Rolex Manufacturing faclities in Switzerland.
In November 2013, this changed when Rolex invited Jake to take an unprecdented journey into the heart of Rolex to learn and report on everything he witnessed and learned.
This Super-Detailed 3 Part Story is a "MUST READ" story for anybody who wants to understand what really makes Rolex tick.