Day-Date 40

The Day-Date 40 228238 is the current production yellow gold Day-Date, stretched to 40mm with Rolex's in-house caliber 3255 and the President bracelet as standard equipment. It occupies the top of the Oyster Perpetual family, built entirely in 18k gold, and trades on dial variety more than any other Rolex reference.

What it is

Rolex introduced the 228238 in 2015 as a direct replacement for the 118238, enlarging the case from 36mm to 40mm and fitting the then-new caliber 3255. The reference launched with an expanded dial palette that now spans meteorite, onyx, malachite, and other stone dials alongside sunburst lacquer and champagne options. No significant case or movement revision has followed since launch; the reference remains in active production.

Buying notes

Check the dial origin carefully: stone and meteorite dials are cut individually and no two are alike, so comparison photos from the seller are essential before purchase. The President bracelet should have a concealed-folding Crownclasp with the reference number stamped inside; mismatched or replacement bracelets are common on pre-owned examples. Inspect the case for polishing, particularly the lugs and the fluted bezel flanks, where rounding removes the crisp geometry.

Prefer examples with the original Rolex service pouch or card confirming factory-authorized work if the watch has been opened.

Market read

Meteorite and semi-precious stone dials (malachite, onyx, aventurine) consistently carry a premium of 10-25% over standard lacquer dials in the secondary market. Full-set examples with original box, papers, and unworn President bracelet push meaningfully above watch-only pricing. The reference trades at or near retail for common dials; rarer configurations are thin-traded enough that realized prices vary widely depending on the platform and buyer pool.

Service expectations

Caliber 3255 is Rolex's current-generation movement, rated to a 70-hour power reserve with improved shock and magnetic resistance over its predecessor. Service intervals are generally 10 years per Rolex's own guidance, and authorized service costs for an all-gold reference are substantial, typically $1,500 or more depending on parts needed. A documented recent service adds credibility on resale but does not command the same dollar-for-dollar return it does on sport references.