Rolex Day-Date 40 228398tbr-0033 40mm

The Rolex Day-Date 40 reference m228398tbr-0033 is a refined masterpiece of luxury and precision, a timepiece that has symbolized distinction and achievement since the Day-Date’s pioneering debut in 1956. Crafted entirely in radiant 18 ct yellow gold, this 40mm model features a pristine white lacquered dial and a diamond-set bezel, offering a seamless blend of understated sophistication and subtle brilliance. Perfect for those who prefer timeless refinement with a touch of sparkle, it delivers the hallmark instantaneous day and date displays in an aura of quiet opulence.

Exquisite Design and Gem-Setting Artistry

The m228398tbr-0033 shines with its 40mm Oyster case—monobloc middle case, screw-down case back, and winding crown—all cast from Rolex’s in-house 18 ct yellow gold foundry for exceptional purity and a warm, polished luster. The bezel, set with diamonds, elevates the design into a sparkling border where each gem is meticulously placed for optimal alignment, height, orientation, and light reflection.

The white dial is crafted through Rolex’s advanced lacquering process: six layers applied to a brass base in a dust-free environment for flawless uniformity, followed by a colourless varnish and hand-polishing to enhance depth and shine. This smooth, luminous surface provides exceptional legibility, with pad-printed inscriptions and appliques. The day window at 12 o’clock spells the day in full, the date at 3 o’clock is magnified by the Cyclops lens, and Chromalight on the hands offers subtle luminescence. Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal completes the protection.

The President bracelet—introduced in 1956 exclusively for the Day-Date—features semi-circular three-piece links in 18 ct yellow gold for luxurious comfort and fluidity, secured by a concealed folding Crownclasp.

Superior Movement and Enduring Performance

The Calibre 3255, a next-generation perpetual self-winding mechanical movement fully designed and manufactured by Rolex, powers this model with Superlative Chronometer certification (-2/+2 seconds per day after casing). It includes:

• Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring
• High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers
• Bidirectional Perpetual rotor

Functions include instantaneous day and date changes at midnight, secure rapid-setting, and stop-seconds. A 70-hour power reserve and Twinlock crown system ensure 100 metres (330 feet) water resistance. See Our Rolex watches collections.

Technical Specifications

• Model: Rolex Day-Date 40 (m228398tbr-0033)
• Case Diameter: 40 mm
• Material: 18 ct yellow gold
• Bezel: Set with diamonds, 18 ct yellow gold
• Dial: White lacquered
• Bracelet: President, semi-circular three-piece links in 18 ct yellow gold
• Movement: Calibre 3255, Manufacture Rolex, self-winding
• Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds; instantaneous day and date with rapid-setting
• Power Reserve: ~70 hours
• Water Resistance: 100 metres / 330 feet
• Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire with Cyclops lens over date

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Is the White Dial’s Flawless Finish Achieved?

Multiple layers of lacquer on brass, applied in a controlled environment, varnished colourlessly, and hand-polished for uniform shine and magnified depth.

2. What Precision Goes Into the Diamond-Set Bezel?

Hand-shaped seats in the gold accommodate each diamond, set with exacting standards for alignment, orientation, and secure, brilliant performance.

3. Why Is the President Bracelet Synonymous with the Day-Date?

Created in 1956 for this collection, its semi-circular links in precious gold provide refined comfort and a concealed clasp for seamless luxury.

4. How Does the Calibre 3255 Deliver Exceptional Reliability?

The Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex absorbers resist magnetism, temperature variations, and shocks, supported by an extended power reserve.

5. What Expertise Supports the Lacquering and Gem-Setting?

Rolex’s in-house specialists ensure perfect lacquer application and diamond placement, combining pure gold craftsmanship for a harmonious, enduring design.