Rolex Day-Date President 1831

Reference 1831 designates an exceptionally rare, special-order Day-Date model produced in minuscule quantities circa 1977. It deviates significantly from standard Rolex case and bracelet architecture. Its primary technical distinction is a unique 36mm tonneau-shaped case, which is substantially heavier and more angular than the standard Oyster case. The lugs are fully integrated into the case design, flowing seamlessly into a bespoke, heavy President bracelet. Known examples are constructed from solid 950 platinum and are powered by the Rolex Caliber 1556, a non-quickset movement. Historically, the Ref. 1831 is considered a ‘mythical’ piece, with production rumored as a special commission for the Shah of Iran. It represents the pinnacle of Rolex’s bespoke capabilities in the 1970s.