The Day-Date, the "President", is Rolex’s flagship: only made in gold or platinum, with the day spelled out at 12 o’clock. Today it comes in 36mm and 40mm. Here’s how to choose.
At a glance
| Day-Date 36 (128xxx) | Day-Date 40 (228xxx) | |
|---|---|---|
| Case | 36mm | 40mm |
| Metals | Yellow, white, Everose gold or platinum | Yellow, white, Everose gold or platinum |
| Calibre | 3255 | 3255 |
| Power reserve | About 70 hours | About 70 hours |
| Water resistance | 100m | 100m |
| Bracelet | President | President |
| Day display | Spelled out at 12 o’clock | Spelled out at 12 o’clock |
A short history
Launched in 1956, the Day-Date was the first wristwatch to show both the date and the day spelled out in full. Its semi-circular three-link bracelet became known as the "President" bracelet. For decades the Day-Date was 36mm; Rolex added the 40mm Day-Date 40 in 2015 and updated the 36mm to the same calibre 3255 in 2019.
36 vs 40
This is the real decision. The Day-Date 36 is classic, elegant and fits under a cuff; it’s the size of the original and many collectors consider it the purest. The Day-Date 40 has more wrist presence and suits larger wrists or anyone who wants a bolder look. On a wrist around 6.5–7 inches, both work; it’s about the statement you want.
The movement
Both now use the calibre 3255 with the Chronergy escapement and about 70 hours of power reserve, certified as Superlative Chronometers. The day and date change instantly at midnight.
Dials and bezels
The Day-Date has one of the widest dial choices in the Rolex line: champagne, silver, blue, green, ombré, meteorite, stone dials and diamond-set versions, with fluted, smooth or diamond bezels. The 36mm offers many of the more decorative and gem-set dials, which is part of its appeal.
Buying checklist
- Full set. For precious-metal Rolex, papers matter even more for value.
- President bracelet. Gold bracelets can stretch with wear; check for gaps between links.
- Fluted bezel. Check for dents or rounding from polishing.
- Gem-set dials and bezels. Diamond settings should be factory Rolex, not aftermarket.
- Day and date change. Both should click over cleanly at midnight.
Which one to choose
Choose the Day-Date 36 if…
You want the classic proportions, a more elegant look, or one of the many decorative dials.
Choose the Day-Date 40 if…
You want more presence on the wrist, or you have a larger wrist.
FAQ
Is the Day-Date ever made in steel?
No. It’s only made in gold or platinum.
Can the day be set in other languages?
Rolex makes Day-Dates with the day in many languages; English is the most common.
Why is it called the President?
The name comes from the President bracelet, and from the watch’s long association with world leaders.
Shopping for one of these? Every watch we sell is authenticated in Los Angeles, with insured delivery and video on request. Text us at (310) 363-0481.
