Rolex Day-Date 36 ‘Bark Finish MOP Diamond Dial’ - Reference 18078 (1980)

Heritage Narrative

Few watches embody luxury and legacy as completely as the Rolex Day-Date, known the world over as The President’s Watch. Introduced in 1956, it was the first wristwatch to display both the day and date spelled out in full — a symbol of status, precision, and enduring craftsmanship. The reference 18078, produced during the late 1970s and early 1980s, introduced one of Rolex’s most distinctive aesthetic variations: the “bark” finish, a textured detailing applied to the bezel and bracelet center links, giving the solid gold surface an organic, sculpted brilliance unlike any other.

This example from the early 1980s features a 36 mm 18k yellow gold case paired with a matching President braceletin the rare bark finish. Its custom white mother-of-pearl dial, set with diamond hour markers, brings a modern touch of radiance to the classic Day-Date design. Powered by the Calibre 3055, Rolex’s first movement with a single quickset date function, this piece represents the perfect blend of technical innovation and old-world luxury. Offered in excellent condition and accompanied by box and booklet, this Day-Date stands as a testament to the golden age of Rolex craftsmanship.

Technical Specifications

Reference:
18078

Year:
Circa 1980 (6.3M serial)

Movement:
Rolex Calibre 3055, automatic, chronometer-certified, single quickset date, ~48 h power reserve

Case:
36 mm 18k yellow gold Oyster case, screw-down Twinlock crown, brushed and polished finish

Bezel:
18k yellow gold, bark-textured fluted bezel

Crystal:
Sapphire, scratch-resistant, Cyclops lens over date

Dial / Hands:
Custom white mother-of-pearl dial with diamond hour markers, gold hands, day at 12 o’clock, date at 3 o’clock

Bracelet / Clasp:
18k yellow gold President bracelet with bark-textured center links (7.5 in, ref. 138.6) and concealed Crownclasp

Water resistance:
100 m / 330 ft (factory rating)

Condition & Inclusions

Overall grade:
Excellent — case crisp, bark texture sharp, dial luminous

Service status:
Inspected; running within Rolex chronometer standards

Set:
Includes Rolex presentation box and booklet

Shipping & Logistics

Stored off-site and shipped fully insured within 1–3 business days
Worldwide shipping available; buyer responsible for any import duties or taxes

Shipping & Returns

Complimentary insured worldwide shipping and a 14-day return window (watch must be returned in the same condition supplied). Each timepiece is authenticated, time-graphed, and prepared for secure transit.