The Rolex Day-Date, affectionately nicknamed the "President," has long been a symbol of success, achievement, and discerning taste. Its iconic design, unwavering reliability, and exclusive use of precious metals have cemented its place as one of the most recognizable and coveted luxury timepieces in the world. The 2009 model year offers a particularly interesting snapshot of this enduring legacy, representing a pivotal point in the Day-Date's evolution, particularly with models like the President Day-Date 41 reference 218239. This article will delve into the specifics of the 2009 Rolex Day-Date, with a focus on the 218239, exploring its design, features, market value, and overall appeal.
The Allure of the 2009 Rolex Day-Date
The 2009 Rolex Day-Date, especially in its 41mm iteration (reference 218239), occupies a special place in the model's history. This was a time when Rolex was pushing the boundaries of size and introducing more contemporary proportions to its classic designs. The 218239, crafted in 18k white gold, exemplifies this shift, offering a more substantial presence on the wrist while retaining the timeless elegance and functionality that defines the Day-Date.
The "President" nickname stems from the bracelet, a semi-circular, three-piece link design exclusively reserved for the Day-Date and select Lady-Datejust models. This bracelet, also crafted in 18k white gold for the 218239, is renowned for its comfort and sophisticated aesthetic. It perfectly complements the watch's overall design, adding to its air of prestige and refinement.
Focusing on the Rolex Day-Date 41 218239: A Closer Look
The reference 218239 is a specific model within the broader 2009 Day-Date lineup. Key features that define this particular watch include:
* Material: 18k White Gold. This gives the watch a subtle, yet undeniably luxurious, appearance. White gold offers a more understated elegance compared to yellow or rose gold, appealing to those who prefer a more contemporary and discreet aesthetic.
* Case Size: 41mm. The 218239 was part of the introduction of the Day-Date II, which offered a larger case size than the traditional 36mm Day-Date. This marked a significant shift towards larger watch sizes that were gaining popularity at the time.
* Movement: Caliber 3156. The 218239 houses the Rolex Caliber 3156, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. It features a Parachrom hairspring, which offers greater resistance to shocks and temperature variations, ensuring superior accuracy and reliability. The movement also includes a hacking seconds function, allowing for precise time setting.
* Dial: Available in various dial options. The 218239 was offered with a range of dial choices, including classic silver, black, and champagne dials, as well as more contemporary options with diamond hour markers. The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, ensuring long-lasting clarity and durability.
* Day and Date Complications: The signature feature of the Day-Date is its instantaneous day and date display. The day of the week is displayed in full at the 12 o'clock position, while the date is displayed at the 3 o'clock position, magnified by the Cyclops lens. This provides exceptional legibility and convenience.
* President Bracelet: As mentioned, the 218239 is fitted with the iconic President bracelet, crafted in 18k white gold. The bracelet features a concealed Crownclasp, which seamlessly integrates into the bracelet design, providing a secure and comfortable fit.
The Significance of the 2009 Card and Full Set
When considering the purchase of a pre-owned 2009 Rolex Day-Date 218239, the presence of the original warranty card (referred to as the "2009 Card") and a "full set" significantly enhances its value and desirability.
* 2009 Card: The warranty card serves as proof of authenticity and ownership. It verifies that the watch was originally purchased from an authorized Rolex dealer in 2009. This is crucial for confirming the watch's provenance and ensuring that it is not a counterfeit or stolen item.
* Full Set: A "full set" typically includes the original box, warranty card, instruction manual, hang tags, and any other accessories that were originally included with the watch when it was purchased new. A complete set adds to the watch's collectibility and value, as it demonstrates that the watch has been well-cared for and preserved in its original condition.
Finding and Buying a 2009 Rolex Day-Date 218239
The pre-owned market is the primary source for acquiring a 2009 Rolex Day-Date 218239. Platforms like Chrono24 are excellent resources for finding a wide selection of these watches from reputable dealers and private sellers worldwide.2009 rolex day date