The allure of a Rolex Presidential watch is undeniable. Its iconic fluted bezel, the robust Oyster case, and the luxurious President bracelet combine to create a timepiece that exudes prestige and sophistication. But for those seeking an even more opulent statement, the addition of diamonds to the bezel elevates the watch to a new level of extravagance. This article delves into the world of men's Rolex Presidential watches with diamond bezels, exploring their history, variations, pricing, and the aftermarket options available. We'll also examine specific models, including the President 18308 and the impact of size variations like the 40mm and 36mm options. Furthermore, we'll address the intriguing historical note about the availability of separate diamond bezels for certain President models.
A Historical Note: The 1805 and the Availability of Separate Diamond Bezels
The Rolex story is filled with fascinating details, and one such element relates to the availability of diamond bezels as separate upgrades. Specifically, the reference 1805, a model produced within the 1800-1811 series, featured a unique combination bezel: a mix of diamonds and sapphires. This design was, in itself, a luxurious statement. However, what sets the 1805 apart is the practice employed by Rolex Authorized Dealers (ADs) at the time. These ADs had the option of selling diamond bezels as separate components to owners of President watches from the 1800-1811 series. This wasn't simply a matter of availability; it was actively encouraged by Rolex itself. This policy allowed owners to upgrade their existing President watches, adding a significant element of personalization and enhancing the watch's overall value. This practice is a significant piece of Rolex history, highlighting the brand's commitment to catering to the desires of its discerning clientele and offering opportunities for customization. The exact reasons behind this policy are not publicly documented but likely involved encouraging sales and offering customers a way to personalize their already significant investment. This practice, however, is not common today. Modern Rolex watches with diamond bezels are typically sold as complete units.
Understanding the Price Point: Rolex Presidential Diamond Bezel Price
The price of a Rolex Presidential watch with a diamond bezel is significantly higher than its counterpart with a standard fluted bezel. Several factors contribute to this: the cost of the diamonds themselves, the labor involved in setting them precisely and securely, and the overall prestige associated with the piece. The price varies dramatically depending on factors such as:
* The number of diamonds: The more diamonds, the higher the price. Bezels can range from having a relatively small number of diamonds to being fully paved with stones.
* The quality of diamonds: The carat weight, clarity, color, and cut of the diamonds all impact the price. Higher-quality diamonds, naturally, command a higher price.
* The metal of the case: The price will be different for a yellow gold, white gold, or platinum case. Platinum, being the most precious metal, will result in the highest price.
* The watch's reference number: Different reference numbers reflect different features and production years, impacting the price.
* Pre-owned vs. new: Pre-owned watches generally command a lower price than brand-new pieces from an authorized dealer.
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