Strap Guide: Rolex Day-Date 1803

Strap Guide written by @watchoutblog. Thank you Eric Steinberg!

Introduction

History of the 1803

There isn’t a whole lot to say about the Rolex Day-Date that has not already been said. It’s a watch that has dawned the wrist of Tony Soprano, Jack Nicklaus and countless Presidents of the United States of America being marketed as the “Presidents watch”. There is no other watch that screams “I’ve made it” the same way a Day-Date does and this is one of the reasons it remains just as popular today as it was 50 years ago.

The Day-Date is most commonly seen on its signature 3 link presidential bracelet, however, this watch is just as at home on a nice strap. So let’s check out some combinations shall we?

Dark Grey Alcantara Signature

The Dark Grey Alcantara gives the Day-Date a more unconventional look making the watch appear edgy and aggressive which one might not associate with a Day- Date. The suede texture of the strap and dark colour are a very nice contrast to the Yellow gold case.

Throw on some black denim and you’ve got a match made in heaven.

Copper Ostrich Signature

Luxury. This combo elevates the Day-Date to luxury status, it gives off strong “old wealth” vibes that scream “I’ve got a room full of rich mahogany wood at home”. Visually the exotic fabric elevates the Day-Date to a new level of class. This strap will be reserved for classier events or the occasional round of golf.

Navy CTS Rubber

I was most hesitant to choose this one for a couple of reasons (1) Rubber is not the first material that comes to mind when trying to compliment gold and (2) I personally have not found a rubber strap that had staying power on any of my watches. Well...I am seemingly wrong on both counts with this easily being my favourite combo AND the one that has spent the most time on the watch since receiving it.

If you have the same hesitations I did, don’t!

Matte Green Ischia Alligator Signature

I feel like this one just makes sense...green and gold, yes it’s basic but just look at it! It’s tough to make a better match than this one. This combo is so good you’d think they were sold together. The matte texture on the gator strap makes it far less dressy allowing it to work in many environments.

Yellow Waxy Slim

First up we have the Yellow Waxy Slim which pairs exceptionally well with the Day- Date, the weathered texture of the leather is the perfect contrast to a vintage watch that has seen its share of bumps and bruises. The colour of the strap adds even more warmth to the already hot watch!

I look at this strap as a perfect companion in casual environments, it’s a strap that will age well with the watch as the leather becomes weathered and worn in.