Rolex Model Identification

The Rolex reference number 228238 corresponds to the Day-Date 40 model, a prestigious timepiece known for its elegant design and sophisticated features. This model is a testament to Rolex’s commitment to excellence in watchmaking, embodying the brand’s legacy of precision, durability, and timeless style.

Design Features

The Day-Date 40 is characterized by its distinctive design elements, which contribute to its luxurious appeal.

  • Case Size: The watch features a 40mm case, a size that strikes a balance between elegance and presence on the wrist.
  • Material: The case and bracelet are crafted from 18-karat yellow gold, a precious metal known for its lustrous sheen and durability.
  • Dial Color: The dial is available in a range of colors, including white, black, champagne, and blue, offering a choice to suit individual preferences.
  • Bezel: The bezel is a smooth, polished design, reflecting the light and enhancing the watch’s overall brilliance.

History and Significance

The Day-Date model has a rich history dating back to 1956 when Rolex introduced the first self-winding wristwatch to display the day of the week in full. This innovation solidified the Day-Date’s position as a landmark in horological advancement.

  • President Bracelet: The Day-Date is renowned for its distinctive President bracelet, a three-piece link design that was first introduced in 1956. This bracelet, with its luxurious feel and intricate craftsmanship, has become synonymous with the Day-Date model.
  • Status Symbol: The Day-Date has consistently been associated with prestige and power, earning the nickname “President’s Watch.” It has been worn by prominent figures throughout history, including heads of state and celebrities, further cementing its status as a symbol of success and distinction.
  • Technological Advancements: Rolex has continuously refined the Day-Date model, incorporating technological advancements and innovative features. The current generation of Day-Date watches features the caliber 3255, a self-winding mechanical movement with a power reserve of up to 70 hours.

Technical Specifications

The Rolex 228238 is a luxurious and technically advanced timepiece that embodies the brand’s commitment to precision and craftsmanship. Its technical specifications highlight its exceptional performance and durability, making it a coveted choice for watch enthusiasts worldwide.

Movement

The 228238 is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3235, an in-house developed automatic movement. This movement is known for its accuracy, reliability, and innovative features. The Caliber 3235 incorporates a Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, which is highly resistant to magnetic fields and temperature variations, ensuring exceptional timekeeping precision.

Power Reserve

The Rolex 228238 boasts an impressive power reserve of approximately 70 hours. This extended power reserve allows the watch to run for a significant period without winding, making it convenient for everyday wear.

Water Resistance

The 228238 is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet). This water resistance rating ensures that the watch can withstand everyday splashes and even light swimming activities.

Other Relevant Features

  • Oyster Perpetual: The 228238 features the iconic Oyster Perpetual case, known for its robust construction and water resistance. This case is designed to withstand the toughest conditions, ensuring the watch’s longevity and reliability.
  • Twinlock Double Waterproofing System: The 228238 incorporates the Twinlock double waterproof system, which reinforces the crown’s seal against water infiltration. This system enhances the watch’s water resistance, protecting the movement from moisture damage.
  • Cyclops Lens: The 228238 features a Cyclops lens over the date window, magnifying the date display for enhanced readability. This feature improves the functionality and user experience of the watch.
  • Rolex’s patented Triplock Winding Crown: The 228238 is equipped with Rolex’s patented Triplock winding crown, which provides a triple seal against water infiltration. This robust system ensures the watch’s exceptional water resistance and protects the movement from the elements.
  • Paraflex Shock Absorbers: The 228238 incorporates Paraflex shock absorbers, which protect the movement from sudden shocks and impacts. These shock absorbers enhance the watch’s durability and reliability, ensuring its long-lasting performance.

Comparison with Similar Rolex Models

The Rolex 228238 shares some similarities with other Rolex models, but it also possesses unique features that set it apart. For example, compared to the Rolex 228235, the 228238 features a yellow gold case and bracelet, adding a touch of luxury and exclusivity. The 228238 also boasts a larger case size than the 228235, providing a more substantial presence on the wrist.

Movement Functionality and Performance

The Caliber 3235 movement in the 228238 is renowned for its accuracy and reliability. It is a highly complex movement with over 300 components, meticulously assembled and regulated by skilled watchmakers. The movement’s performance is characterized by its precise timekeeping, smooth operation, and long-lasting durability. The Caliber 3235 has been rigorously tested and certified by COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres), ensuring its exceptional accuracy and performance.

Materials and Craftsmanship

The Rolex 228238, a timepiece that embodies both elegance and durability, is meticulously crafted using premium materials and exceptional craftsmanship. Every detail, from the selection of raw materials to the intricate finishing techniques, reflects Rolex’s commitment to excellence.

Materials

The Rolex 228238 showcases the brand’s dedication to using high-quality materials that are known for their resilience and aesthetic appeal.

  • 18k Yellow Gold: The watch case, bezel, and bracelet are crafted from 18k yellow gold, a precious metal renowned for its lustrous brilliance and exceptional durability. The use of 18k gold ensures the watch’s resistance to scratches, corrosion, and tarnishing, allowing it to retain its pristine appearance for years to come.
  • Oyster Steel: The Rolex 228238 also incorporates Oyster steel, a corrosion-resistant alloy known for its exceptional strength and hardness. This material is used for the watch’s movement, providing a robust foundation for the intricate mechanism within.
  • Sapphire Crystal: The watch’s scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass protects the dial and ensures clear visibility. Sapphire crystal is known for its exceptional hardness, making it highly resistant to scratches and impacts. This feature guarantees the watch’s long-lasting beauty and functionality.

Craftsmanship

The craftsmanship involved in creating the Rolex 228238 is a testament to the brand’s dedication to precision and meticulous attention to detail.

  • Case Construction: The watch’s case is meticulously crafted using a combination of advanced manufacturing techniques and traditional craftsmanship. The case is first machined from solid blocks of 18k yellow gold, ensuring its structural integrity and durability. The case is then polished to a high shine, reflecting Rolex’s commitment to achieving a flawless finish.
  • Dial Design: The dial of the Rolex 228238 is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. The intricate details, including the Roman numeral hour markers, the elegant hands, and the distinctive Rolex logo, are meticulously applied to create a visually stunning and functional timepiece. The dial’s clarity and legibility ensure effortless timekeeping, even in challenging lighting conditions.
  • Movement Assembly: The heart of the Rolex 228238 is its self-winding mechanical movement, a testament to the brand’s watchmaking expertise. The movement is assembled by skilled watchmakers using traditional techniques and state-of-the-art equipment. Each component is meticulously inspected and adjusted to ensure optimal performance and precision.

Finishing Techniques

The Rolex 228238 showcases a variety of finishing techniques that enhance its aesthetic appeal and durability.

  • Polishing: The watch’s case, bezel, and bracelet are meticulously polished to a high shine, creating a luxurious and elegant finish. The polishing process involves using specialized tools and techniques to remove imperfections and create a smooth, reflective surface.
  • Satin Finishing: The watch’s case and bracelet also feature satin finishing, a technique that creates a brushed, matte effect. Satin finishing adds a subtle texture to the metal, providing a contrasting element to the polished surfaces. This combination of finishes creates a visually appealing and sophisticated aesthetic.
  • Engraving: The Rolex 228238 features intricate engravings on the case back, bezel, and crown. These engravings, often featuring the Rolex logo, model number, and other details, add a touch of elegance and personalization to the watch. The engravings are meticulously executed using specialized tools and techniques, ensuring their precision and clarity.

Value and Collectibility

The Rolex 228238, a modern interpretation of the iconic Datejust, is a highly sought-after timepiece that commands significant value in the luxury watch market. Its desirability stems from a combination of factors, including its elegant design, robust construction, and the prestige associated with the Rolex brand.

Current Market Value

The current market value of a Rolex 228238 is influenced by several key factors, including condition, rarity, and demand.

  • Condition: A watch in excellent condition, with minimal signs of wear, will fetch a higher price than one that has been heavily used.
  • Rarity: Limited edition or discontinued models, like the 228238 with a specific dial color or a unique complication, can be particularly valuable.
  • Demand: The popularity of a particular model, like the 228238, will influence its market value. High demand often translates to higher prices.

Historical Significance and Potential for Future Appreciation

The Rolex 228238, as a contemporary iteration of the Datejust, carries the legacy of a classic design that has been a symbol of luxury and prestige for decades. The Datejust’s enduring popularity, combined with Rolex’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, suggests that the 228238 has the potential for future appreciation in value.

Comparison with Similar Rolex Models

The value of the 228238 can be compared to other similar Rolex models, such as the Datejust 41 (ref. 126334) or the Day-Date 40 (ref. 228235). The 228238, with its 18k yellow gold case and fluted bezel, typically commands a higher price compared to the stainless steel Datejust 41. The Day-Date 40, with its more elaborate design and the addition of a day-of-the-week display, is generally priced higher than the 228238.

Variations and Editions

The Rolex 228238, a luxurious timepiece crafted in 18k yellow gold, has been offered in various iterations throughout its production, each adding a unique twist to its classic design. These variations, often limited in production, have become highly sought after by collectors, adding to the watch’s desirability and value.

Dial Variations, 228238 rolex

The dial, a key element in any watch’s aesthetic, has seen several variations on the 228238. These variations offer a range of options to suit different tastes and preferences, from the classic to the more contemporary.

The most common dial variation features a black lacquer dial with Roman numeral hour markers and a date window at 3 o’clock. This classic design exudes elegance and sophistication, making it a timeless choice.

Other variations include:

  • Champagne Dial: This variation features a warm, champagne-colored dial that adds a touch of warmth and richness to the overall aesthetic. It’s a more understated option compared to the black dial, offering a sophisticated elegance.
  • Blue Dial: A more modern take on the classic design, the blue dial variation adds a vibrant pop of color to the watch. The blue dial is particularly striking against the yellow gold case, creating a bold and sophisticated look.
  • Diamond-Set Dial: For those seeking an even more luxurious experience, the diamond-set dial variation features a dial adorned with sparkling diamonds. This adds a touch of glamour and exclusivity to the already prestigious watch.

These dial variations have significantly impacted the watch’s value and collectibility. For instance, the diamond-set dial variations are highly sought after by collectors, often fetching higher prices due to their exclusivity and luxurious appeal.

Special Editions

Rolex has occasionally released special editions of the 228238, further enhancing its desirability and collectibility. These limited-production models often feature unique design elements and materials, making them highly prized by collectors.

One notable example is the Rolex 228238 “Sky-Dweller”, which was released in 2014. This special edition features a unique dual-time zone function, allowing the wearer to keep track of two different time zones simultaneously. The “Sky-Dweller” also boasts a distinctive bezel with a rotating disc that displays the month, making it a highly functional and sophisticated timepiece.

These special editions are often produced in limited quantities, making them even more valuable and sought after by collectors. Their unique features and design elements contribute to their high desirability and often command premium prices in the secondary market.

Notable Owners and Appearances

While the Rolex 228238, with its distinctive design and luxurious materials, has undoubtedly attracted a discerning clientele, its presence in the public eye has been relatively discreet. Unlike some other iconic Rolex models, it hasn’t been widely seen on the wrists of celebrities or featured prominently in popular culture.

This isn’t to say the watch hasn’t made its mark. The 228238 has been a favorite among individuals who value discretion and sophistication, preferring to appreciate its elegance in a more private setting. Its subtle presence, however, has contributed to its allure and desirability within a specific circle of collectors and enthusiasts.

Notable Individuals

The 228238 has been spotted on the wrists of a few prominent figures, though these sightings are generally not widely publicized. Its understated elegance appeals to individuals who value privacy and prefer to express their taste through subtle cues.

Care and Maintenance: 228238 Rolex

The Rolex 228238, like any fine timepiece, deserves proper care and maintenance to ensure its longevity and preserve its value. Regular servicing is crucial, and following a few simple tips can help protect your watch from damage and keep it in pristine condition for years to come.

Regular Servicing

Regular servicing is essential for maintaining the accuracy, functionality, and overall condition of your Rolex 228238. Rolex recommends servicing your watch every 5-10 years, depending on usage and environmental factors.

  • During a service, a certified Rolex watchmaker will thoroughly inspect the movement, clean and lubricate components, replace worn parts, and ensure the watch is functioning optimally.
  • Servicing also includes a water resistance test and a pressure check to guarantee the watch’s waterproof capabilities.

Alternatives and Comparisons

The Rolex 228238, a luxurious and sophisticated timepiece, offers a compelling blend of style and functionality. However, the world of horology is vast, and there are other exceptional Rolex models that share similarities with the 228238, each with its own unique appeal. This section will explore these alternatives, comparing their features, specifications, and value to the 228238, providing insights to guide potential buyers in their decision-making process.

Comparison with Similar Rolex Models

Exploring the world of Rolex watches reveals a range of models that share similarities with the 228238. This section will delve into these alternatives, comparing their features, specifications, and value to the 228238, offering insights to guide potential buyers in their decision-making process.

  • Rolex Day-Date 40 (Ref. 128238): This model, while sharing the same case size and material as the 228238, features a slightly different design. The 128238 boasts a more traditional fluted bezel and a classic, elegant dial with Roman numeral hour markers. While the 228238 leans towards a modern aesthetic, the 128238 embodies classic elegance. The 128238 is typically priced slightly lower than the 228238, making it a more accessible option for those seeking a timeless Day-Date.
  • Rolex Day-Date 36 (Ref. 118238): This model offers a smaller case size than the 228238, measuring 36mm in diameter. While smaller in size, the 118238 retains the same luxurious features as its larger counterpart, including the President bracelet and the signature Day-Date functionality. This model is a great choice for individuals who prefer a more compact and elegant timepiece. The 118238 is typically priced lower than the 228238, making it a more affordable option for those who appreciate the Day-Date’s classic design.
  • Rolex Yacht-Master 40 (Ref. 16622): This model, while not featuring the Day-Date complication, shares a similar case size and material with the 228238. The Yacht-Master 40 is designed for nautical pursuits, featuring a unidirectional rotating bezel and a robust construction. The 16622, however, comes with a more sporty aesthetic, featuring a black ceramic bezel and a black dial. It’s a versatile watch that can be worn both casually and formally. The 16622 is typically priced slightly lower than the 228238, offering a compelling alternative for those seeking a sporty yet luxurious timepiece.

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