1991 Rolex Day Date Coral Stella Chinese Calendar 'Mint' Ref. 18238 (with Papers)

A pinkish Coral Stella Day Date - in a condition we love

Among vintage Rolex collectors, few dials have experienced a renaissance quite like the Stella dial. Produced in exceptionally small numbers during the 1970s and 1980s and early 1990s, these vibrant lacquer dials were once considered unconventional but are now firmly established among the most desirable configurations ever fitted on a Day-Date. Demand continues to outpace supply bigtime, particularly for examples with the rarer non-diamond baton indexes. Within this already rare category, coral - due to its striking appearance remains one of the most sought-after colours, with subtle variations in tone making each dial unique.

The true highlight of this ref. 18238 is its immaculate Coral Stella dial. Unlike the diamond-set Stella dials encountered a bit more frequently, this example features the highly coveted baton indexes, allowing the remarkable colour to take centre stage. As the lacquer for each Stella dial was individually mixed by hand, no two examples are exactly alike. This particular dial shows a delicate yet noticeable pink hue that distinguishes it from a few other coral dials that exist, giving it a truly exotic character. The dial remains in exceptional condition, showing perfect gloss and with all luminous plots fully intact and perfectly matching the original hands. T Swiss Made T signature confirming its correct period. Completing the picture is the Chinese day disc, perfectly corresponding to the original Hong Kong warranty paper supplied with the watch—an attractive detail that reinforces its authenticity and provenance.

Equally impressive is the condition of the watch itself. Preserved in virtually unworn condition, the case shows no visible signs of polishing, retaining beautifully defined lugs with crisp factory finishes throughout. The yellow gold has developed a light rosy, even patina from decades of careful storage, adding charm without compromising its exceptional preservation - not to forget the original green case back sticker which remains fully intact.

Bringing together a remarkably well-preserved case, an outstanding Coral Stella dial in an unusually attractive shade, and original Hong Kong papers that match the Chinese day disc, this is a collector-grade example of one of the most coveted vintage Day-Date configurations available today.