Rolex Oysterquartz Day-Date 19038

The Rolex Oysterquartz Day‑Date ref. 19038 was produced during the Oysterquartz line’s overall run from 1977 into the early 2000s as part of Rolex’s exclusive quartz-powered President-style models. Cast entirely in 18k yellow gold, it combined Rolex’s precise Caliber 5055 thermocompensated quartz movement with a bold angular case, integrated “Pyramide” bracelet, pyramid-pattern bezel adorned with 12 brilliant-cut diamonds, and full day–date display. The 19038 sits among the most luxurious and collectible models in the quartz era, prized for its scarcity and ornate detailing.

Technical Specifications

Detailed Overview
The 19038 belongs to the prestigious Day‑Date subset of Rolex’s Oysterquartz collection, which exclusively offered precious-metal models in gold. Introduced in 1977, the Caliber 5055 powered these timepieces from inception and was chronometer-certified from the outset, setting them apart from their Datejust counterparts. The quartz movement is technically advanced, featuring a thermocompensated stepping motor, mechanical escapement, 11 jewels, and a COSC rating—rare features in quartz technology of its era .

Visually, the 19038 is striking: a 36 mm angular case reminiscent of the Datejust Oysterquartz line but with gold richness; an integrated “pyramide” President bracelet that echoes its bezel’s motif; and a diamond-set bezel ring that elevates its luxury quotient significantly. The pyramid motif is executed elegantly, with twelve bezel-set diamonds positioned above each hour marker, offering a sophisticated balance between ornamentation and structural coherence.

Variations and Rarity
Within the Day‑Date Oysterquartz family, six core reference numbers were issued, ranging from the classic fluted-bezel 19018 and 19019 to textured-pyramid versions like the 19028 (solid pyramid), 19038 (pyramid plus diamonds), and further adorned models such as the 19068, 19048/49 with diamond-set bezels, and ultra-rare pieces like the 19148 or 19168 with extensive gem settings. The 19038 is among the rarer pyramid models, distinguished by its twelve bezel diamonds and pyramid bracelet links, and is significantly less common than the 19028 .

Historical Significance and Market Context
The Oysterquartz Day‑Date line represents Rolex’s luxury response to the quartz crisis, blending high-end aesthetics with quartz accuracy. The 19038 exemplifies this fusion at its most opulent—luxury watchmaking elevated through gold craftsmanship and gem-setting paired with one of the most robust quartz movements of its time. Its rarity and decorative complexity have led to collector enthusiasm, especially among those familiar with integrated-bracelet models.

As recently as mid‑2025, secondary-market pricing for the 19038 sits around $25,000 to $35,000, depending on condition, documentation, and bracelet preservation. Rarer or exceptionally preserved pieces, especially with full-deployment boxes and manuals, can approach or exceed $40,000. Overall, the Day‑Date Oysterquartz references are commercially strong, with the 19038 considered one of the most collectible non-chronograph quartz Rolex models .

Conclusion
The Rolex Oysterquartz Day‑Date ref. 19038 is a standout timepiece in Rolex’s quartz legacy: an all-gold, gem-adorned watch powered by a technically advanced Caliber 5055, all within Rolex’s designer-driven angular aesthetic. Its scarcity and aesthetic boldness render it a prized selection among collectors of both Rolex craftsmanship and integrated-bracelet heritage. Those seeking a luxurious, historically significant quartz Rolex find in the 19038 a compelling and distinctive choice.