1986 Rolex Day Date Oysterquartz Honeycomb Diamond Dial Ref. 19048

Royal Honeycomb

Mastery is perhaps the best word that describes the world of gemstones at Rolex. Be it on the case, bracelet or dial, the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into their work is true perfection in a mission to create the best of the best.

Rolex handles all gemstone selection and setting in-house, at its own gemological department in Geneva. Every diamond, ruby, emerald, sapphire or other gem stone undergoes strict testing for authenticity and quality, ensuring D to G color and flawless clarity for diamonds, and consistent saturation for colored stones. Rolex’s use of gemstones isn't just decoration—it's a testament to precision, consistency, and in-house mastery. Rolex is one of the best if not THE best in the game.

The best canvas way to show off their craftsmanship is the Day Date, the absolute pinnacle in the collection, a model that comes in a universe of configurations using the most exotic materials in the world. Gem set Day Dates represent a niche in a niche, a field which gives collectors enough space to build dedicated collections but they will never be complete. In the world of Day Dates there are configurations that the market has never seen. Special orders placed by Royal Families and important personalities in the past that are resting in dark vaults and might never see the light of day.

Among these secretive creations lies what was once known as the Crown Collection Unlike Rolex’s main production, this exclusive offering operated discreetly, never formally advertised and seldom documented. Reserved for those with access—royalty, dignitaries, heads of state and longstanding clients—it consisted of bespoke pieces distinguished by their exceptional materials and singular designs. Crafted in extremely limited quantities or on-offs, these watches often reflected the personal tastes and cultural touchpoints of their commissioners, a deeply private expression of status and appreciation. Remarkably, some were created not for self-indulgence, but as gifts—a tradition deeply rooted in legacy and diplomacy.

One such figure who embraced this tradition was the late Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said of Oman. Sultan Qaboos, following his love and passion for the finer things in life he cultivated deep relationships with the foremost luxury houses of his time. Among them, Rolex held a special place. Known for his discerning eye and unmatched generosity, the Sultan often commissioned remarkable pieces to present as gifts—tokens of esteem to his inner circle, visiting heads of state, military officers, and trusted associates.

The piece offered here finds its origins in this very tradition. Gifted in 1986 by the late Sultan to a government-affiliated figure, the watch comes to us from the family of the original owner. A rare Rolex Oysterquartz Day-Date reference 19048, it is fitted with what can only be described as one of the brand’s most captivating dials: a honeycomb pavée composed of diamonds, sapphires, and rubies, arranged with geometric harmony. Our research suggests this configuration was part of the elusive Crown Collection.

Preserved in outstanding condition, the watch has developed a delicate rosy patina from years of careful storage. It remains unpolished, with the case and bracelet exhibiting the original factory finish. The case back sticker remains intact, its reference still clearly legible—a small yet significant detail. According to its previous custodian, the watch was worn only a handful of times, reserved for occasions of particular note. Every line, hallmark, and engraving speaks to its careful preservation.

The reference 19048 itself is a relatively uncommon example within the Oysterquartz family, distinguished here by a factory gold bezel set with 44 diamonds. While diamond dials are not unfamiliar to the reference, this particular example stands apart.

The dial is piece of art. We have here the Honeycomb Pave dial, a mesmerizing interplay of Diamonds, Sapphires and Rubis, meticulously aligned in a honeycomb design through hexagonal shapes. The symmetry of the diamond setting is sheer perfection and creates a visual harmony across the dial.

That such an ex exceptional dial would feature on a Quartz Rolex speaks volumes about the model’s importance within the brand’s lineup at the time. This was no compromise on tradition, but rather an extension of it—reinterpreted through the lens of innovation. With fewer than ten known examples in this precise configuration, and accompanied by its distinguished provenance, this piece represents a rare opportunity to acquire what can rightly be described as a grail—not only among Oysterquartz watches, but across the wider world of gem-set Rolex.

Nobody does diamonds like Rolex.