The Rolex Day-Date, known as the “President Watch,” is a masterpiece of timepieces that epitomizes elegance, power, and timeless beauty. Introduced in 1956, it was the first wristwatch to display both the date and the day of the week in full — a technological feat at the time.
Its popularity with many US Presidents and global leaders has cemented its status as a symbol of authority.
The 36th US President Lyndon B. Johnson regularly wore a solid gold Rolex Day-Date. Photo: Watch Exchange
Presidential Legacies and Highlights
The Rolex Day-Date earned its nickname “President Watch” thanks to its association with U.S. presidents, starting with the 36th President Lyndon B. Johnson (1963–1969). Johnson frequently wore a solid gold Day-Date, and his habit of giving Rolexes to acquaintances enhanced the watch’s prestige. According to watch site Hodinkee, President Johnson gave his cardiologist an 18K gold Rolex engraved with “JWH / Love LBJ,” shortly before his death in 1973, demonstrating his personal attachment to the brand. Rolex capitalized on this connection, advertising the Day-Date as the “President’s Watch” in 1966.
Before that, the 35th President John F. Kennedy (1961–1963), although he did not wear one, was associated with the Day-Date in a scandalous story. The New York Times reported that in 1962, actress Marilyn Monroe gave President Kennedy a solid gold Day-Date for his 45th birthday, engraved with the words “JACK, With love as always from MARILYN, May 29th, 1962.” Fearing scandal over their relationship, Kennedy asked an assistant to handle the watch. The watch resurfaced in 2005, selling at auction for $120,000, although its authenticity remains disputed.
In 1962, actress Marilyn Monroe gave the 35th US President John F. Kennedy a solid gold Rolex Day-Date on his 45th birthday, engraved with the words “JACK, With love as always from MARILYN, May 29th, 1962.”
The 37th President Richard Nixon (1969–1974) and the 38th President Gerald Ford (1974–1977) also wore the Day-Date, further cementing the watch’s reputation. Forbes magazine reported on President Nixon’s fondness for the watch during his term in office; while President Ford was given a Day-Date while in office and chose to purchase one after leaving office, a personal tribute.
40th President Ronald Reagan (1981–1989) is often associated with the Day-Date model, but Hodinkee makes it clear that he primarily wore a stainless steel Rolex Datejust. However, Reagan’s association with Rolex enhanced the brand’s elite image.
42nd President Bill Clinton (1993–2001) owned a Day-Date, but according to the New York Times, he often wore simple watches like the Timex Ironman in public to appear more down-to-earth. After leaving office, he used luxury watches, including the Day-Date.
The current US President Donald Trump is also a fan of the Rolex Day-Date, which fits his taste. Forbes notes that the gold Day-Date is a frequent accessory with Mr. Trump.
Elegant and luxurious design
The Rolex Day-Date is available only in precious metals—18K gold (yellow, white, or Everose) or 950 platinum—underscoring its exclusivity. Available in 36mm or 40mm cases, it features a fluted bezel, a Cyclops lens magnifying the date at 3 o’clock, and a day display at 12 o’clock, available in 26 languages. The “’President” bracelet with its three-piece semicircular links, both functional and iconic, was designed specifically for this model.
Since 2015, the Day-Date has been powered by the Calibre 3255, which has a 70-hour power reserve and is COSC-certified for precision. Improvements like the Chronergy escapement and ceramic details in the bracelet enhance durability, according to Hodinkee. With 100-meter water resistance and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the watch balances elegance and durability.
Forbes notes that the gold Rolex Day-Date is a frequent accessory worn by President Donald Trump.
User Experience
User reviews highlight the appeal of the Rolex Day-Date. On Watchuseek, a user named “Mark R.” describes his 40mm Everose gold Day-Date as “the perfect blend of bold and understated,” praising its versatility for “a casual date or dinner.”
Another user, “Claire V.,” on Reddit, appreciated the weight of this watch, saying, “It feels substantial, but the balance makes it comfortable to wear all day.”
However, some users pointed out limitations. On Reddit, “u/WatchFan22” commented, “The platinum model is beautiful but shows fingerprints easily, and the polishing cost is quite high.”
New models start at around $35,000, while vintage models like the Ref. 1803 command higher prices at auctions, according to Forbes.
Still, owners like “Tom S.” on X call it “an heirloom investment,” emphasizing its timeless design and strong resale value.
Theo Forbes, Hodinkee, Rolex)
