Rolex Day-Date 18168 'Honeycomb Pavé'

A Day-Date with more carats than a rabbit. And, we’ve really tried to count ‘em, but we honestly lost track given the insane number of stones on this superlative Day-Date.

Where does one start with such a piece? Perhaps the reference would be a good place to depart from. The ref. 18168, a rare sub-reference of the 180xx series made in the 1980s, was reserved for watches with baguette-set bezels and rightfully earned its spot in the admired "crown collection". Coloured gemstones, as opposed to diamonds, are rarer to be featured on any Rolex, so it is quite exotic to have it adorned with 24 resplendent deep blue sapphires.

It’s difficult to imagine, but the bezel is outclassed by the dial. Consisting of an 18K yellow gold base, it is exquisitely pavé set with diamonds, rubies, and sapphires in a dazzling honeycomb motif that simultaneously resembles a shimmering bed of flowers. The brand and model name are subtly applied on gold cartouches to not interfere with the pleasing geometric lay-out. The centre of the hands have black lacquer to increase visibility.

And, if all that weren’t enough, the 18K yellow gold Jubilee bracelet is factory-set with diamonds on the center links as well. For such a special execution they opted for the magnificent 'Super Jubilee" bracelet with concealed clasp. Just like the watch, it dates back to 1986. Worn only sparsely, the great case condition and stretch free bracelet attest to this.