18k Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 18248 is a truly exceptional timepiece. This dial/case model is affectionately known as the “Bark-Onyx,” originating from the year 1999. Watch is full-set, accompanied by its original boxes and authentic documentation. The watch has a rare black Onyx stone dial, adorned with gold hands. Its pristine appearance is protected by a sapphire crystal. 18k Bark-finished yellow gold case is in outstanding condition, with the original green protective sticker still in the caseback. Watch is waterproof and its size is 36mm. The Rolex calibre 3155 Day-Date chronometer movement has undergone a full service, ensuring its flawless performance and reliability. 18k Bark-finished gold bracelet remains in impeccable condition, with minimal visible signs of wear. Included with the watch is the complete Rolex green Day-Date watch box, comprising both inner and outer packaging. Additionally, the package contains chronometer certificate, dated to November 1999, from Kirk Freeport, Grand Cayman, green price tag, plastic case protector, Your Rolex-Oyster instruction booklet, collection brochure, Rolex green cardholder, 1999-2000 Rolex calendar, translation booklet, Rolex cloth, and Rolex booklet, all housed in a protective leather-bound folder. Watch comes with a 12-month service warranty.  

BARK-ONYX

Between 1956 and 1976, Rolex offered a significantly broader range of finishing options for their Day-Date models, far more extensive than their current offerings. During this era, buyers were presented with a fascinating array of choices, including the sleek and polished 1802 model, the iconic fluted bezel of the 1803, the luxurious diamond-set bezel of the 1804, the uniquely adorned “Florentine” decoration of the 1806, the distinctive Bark finish of the 1807, and the intricate Morelli/Moire finish of the 1811. Notably, the decorative elements extended not only to the watch’s bezel but also graced its bracelet. The Bark-finished Day-Date models were introduced by Rolex in 1956, initially available in both yellow and white gold variations. This distinguished model continued in production until 1976. In 1977, Rolex introduced a new five-digit reference numbering system, which not only indicated the finishing but also specified the case material. With the advent of the calibre 3055 movement and the introduction of a sapphire crystal, the reference numbers were revised to 18078 for the yellow gold version and 18079 for the white gold version. The culmination of the Bark-finished legacy was the 18248/49 series, launched in 1988 when Rolex unveiled calibre 3155 movement. This particular model remained in production until around 1999 when Rolex discontinued the Bark finishing, marking the end of an era. In essence, this 1999 Day-Date, adorned with a stunning Onyx stone dial and the distinctive Bark finishing, represents the final chapter of a remarkable legacy, making it a truly exceptional and exceptionally rare timepiece.