About the Rolex Day-Date II
Introduced as a larger evolution of the Day-Date, the 41 mm Day-Date II carries the same prestigious DNA that earned its predecessor the nickname the President's watch, a reference to its association with heads of state and industry leaders around the world. The collection is available exclusively in Rolex's own precious metals, including 950 platinum and 18k Everose or yellow gold, and is never produced in stainless steel, which preserves its position at the top of the Rolex hierarchy. The President bracelet, with its characteristic three-piece semi-circular links, remains a defining feature and is unique to the Day-Date line. Dial variety is exceptional, spanning classic champagne and silver tones to striking ice blue and meteorite options, making each reference a highly personal statement.
What to Look For
When shopping the Day-Date II, the choice of metal is the most consequential decision: platinum references such as the 218206 carry a heavier, cooler tone and typically command a premium over gold configurations, while rose gold references like the 218235 offer a warmer, more contemporary aesthetic. Dial material and finish, whether a standard lacquered dial or a gem-set option denoted by a suffix such as CDP on the 218235CDP, can significantly affect both the look and the market value of the watch. Buyers should verify that the President bracelet is original and undamaged, as replacement bracelet links for precious-metal Day-Date II watches represent a meaningful portion of total value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the case size of the Rolex Day-Date II?
The Rolex Day-Date II features a 41 mm case, which distinguishes it from the original Day-Date reference at 40 mm and the current Day-Date 40 that succeeded it. This slightly larger diameter gives the watch a bolder wrist presence while retaining the same prestigious design language.
What metals are the Rolex Day-Date II references available in?
The Day-Date II is produced exclusively in precious metals, including 950 platinum and 18k gold in yellow, white, and Everose rose gold variants. The restriction to precious metals only is a deliberate Rolex policy that positions the Day-Date II at the pinnacle of the brand's collection.
What does the CDP suffix mean on a Day-Date II reference like the 218235CDP?
The CDP suffix on a Rolex Day-Date II reference indicates that the dial is set with diamonds or other precious stones, typically in a pave or channel-set configuration. This gem-set dial designation adds both visual drama and additional value compared to a standard lacquered dial on the same base reference.
Browse also: Rolex collection.
Buy, trade, or sell. Contact Bizak & Co. for pricing and availability on any reference in this collection.
