Rolex Day-Date 1802 'Eastern Arabic'

Language can be needlessly confusing, even in the world of watches. Arabic numerals on a Rolex dial? Not that exotic since they refer to the ‘Western’ numerals we use on a day-to-day basis. Eastern Arabic numerals, on the other hand, are the actual numerals used in the Arabic language and exceedingly rare when found on a Rolex dial!Rolex Day-Dates produced for the Arab market are some of the most unusual and coveted ones you can find. Among these, those with Eastern Arabic numerals on the dial are the most illusive. They were only produced in very low numbers, mostly for precious metal Day-Dates, in the 1950s until the 1970s. This lovely design feature was resumed only a few years ago when Rolex released a limited number of 40 mm platinum Day-Dates that were sold exclusively by selected Middle-Eastern retailers.This amazing ref. 1802 from 1959 is like a time capsule from a bygone era. The 36 mm 18k yellow gold case with domed bezel comes with the original 18k yellow gold riveted Oyster bracelet with the date stamp “59”! The rare and flawless Swiss-only champagne dial features thick applied 18k yellow gold Eastern Arabic numerals and, of course, matching Arabic day and date discs. As with any true 1950s Day-Date, the watch sports elegant 18k yellow gold alpha hands.This ref. 1802 is in excellent condition with a thick case and a tight bracelet with period-correct big-logo clasp that is elegantly engraved with the letters “VD”.