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In a candid post, WatchProSite's indignantdenial opens up about the complex emotions surrounding the sale of his Rolex Day-Date Ref. 118238. He invites the community to reflect on the universal collector's dilemma: the regret of parting with a cherished timepiece, even when priorities shift. This discussion explores whether such a feeling is a natural part of an evolving collecting journey or a signal to reacquire a beloved watch.
The Day-Date reference 118238 represents a significant evolution within the Day-Date lineage, succeeding earlier 36mm yellow gold models. This reference maintained the classic 36mm case size, a dimension long associated with the Day-Date, while incorporating updated internal mechanisms and subtle aesthetic refinements. It continued the tradition of offering both the day of the week and the date aperture, a hallmark of the model since its inception. This particular configuration in yellow gold with a champagne diamond dial is a traditional and recognizable expression of the model.
This reference features a 36mm Oyster case crafted from 18K yellow gold, paired with a fluted bezel, also in 18K yellow gold. The watch is powered by the automatic caliber 3155, known for its double quickset function for both day and date. It is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers a water resistance of 100 meters. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
For collectors, the 118238 is a key reference that bridges earlier Day-Date generations with more contemporary iterations. Its enduring 36mm size appeals to those who prefer the traditional proportions of the model. The combination of yellow gold and a champagne dial with diamond hour markers is a classic and sought-after configuration, embodying the enduring appeal of the Day-Date as a dress watch. It is often appreciated for its robust construction and the practicality of its complications.
Among the ten I let go, I tried to buy them again. Example: The Rolex Yacht Master. Some I cannot, because they went too high in price. Painful... Best, Nicolas
It is painful when you try and realize you can't. Sometimes you don't know what you had until it's gone--not always--but sometimes. Cheers.
I sold an Explorer 1 and I rebought it. Still I wish I had kept the original one as it had a meaning to me i underestimated.
Most others I bought back but slowly they left again… Similar to getting back with an Ex, never works ))
For me there are 2 types of "regrets". The easy one: Watches I sold for market price at the time (or less ) and now require stupid money. No real regrets here, for investment the stock market is my friend., The 2nd one, and that's not easy, is watches I sold that I just can't replace. usually rare variants and a super rare good condition. Finding good examples of vintage these days is just impossible (or ridiculous amount, but with all the Frankenstein watches, even if I'd like to spend, I won't
While your lovely Rolex is a wonderful wonderful watch and a dream watch for many, there was a reason why you let it go. You weren't crazy about it. And that's why you made the decision to let it go. If you got it back today, chances are, you'd still have the same problem. So I'd say you made the right move!
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