Rolex Day-Date 40 228398tbr-0040 40mm

The Rolex Day-Date 40 reference m228398tbr-0040 is a sublime expression of understated luxury and technical prowess, a timepiece that has epitomized prestige since the Day-Date’s launch in 1956. Crafted entirely in radiant 18 ct yellow gold, this 40mm gem features a luminous silver sunray dial paired with a diamond-set bezel, blending cool elegance with warm opulence for timeless appeal. Suited for those who appreciate subtle grandeur, it delivers the iconic instantaneous day and date displays in a design of pure sophistication.

Exquisite Design and Gem-Setting Artistry

The m228398tbr-0040 impresses with its 40mm Oyster case—monobloc middle case, screw-down case back, and winding crown—all produced in Rolex’s in-house 18 ct yellow gold foundry for exceptional purity and a captivating polish. The bezel, meticulously set with diamonds, forms a sparkling frame where each gem is hand-positioned for precise alignment, orientation, and maximum light reflection.

The silver dial highlights Rolex’s sunray finishing mastery: fine grooves brushed outward from the center create delicate, shifting light effects that vary with wrist movement. The silver tone is applied using Physical Vapour Deposition or electroplating, finished with a light varnish for protection and enhanced legibility. Chromalight luminescence on the hands and markers provides a long-lasting blue glow. The day appears fully spelled at 12 o’clock, the date at 3 o’clock is magnified by the Cyclops lens, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal safeguards the dial.

The President bracelet—debuted in 1956 exclusively for the Day-Date—comprises semi-circular three-piece links in 18 ct yellow gold for luxurious comfort and seamless flow, with a concealed folding Crownclasp. See Our Rolex Watches Collections.

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.

Specifications

• Model: Rolex Day-Date 40 (m228398tbr-0040)
• Case Diameter: 40 mm
• Material: 18 ct yellow gold
• Bezel: Diamond-set, 18 ct yellow gold
• Dial: Silver sunray with Chromalight luminescence
• 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. What Produces the Silver Dial’s Subtle Radiance?

The sunray finish with outward-brushed grooves diffuses light consistently, applied and varnished for a characteristic glow that shifts with wrist position.

2. How Is the Diamond-Set Bezel Crafted for Optimal Sparkle?

Gem-setters hand-shape seats in the gold, aligning and orienting each diamond precisely for regularity, strength, and brilliant light play.

3. What Elevates the President Bracelet to Icon Status?

Its 1956 introduction with semi-circular solid gold links offers refined comfort and fluidity, featuring a concealed clasp for an elegant, unbroken profile.

4. How Does the Calibre 3255 Withstand Daily Demands?

The Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex absorbers provide resistance to magnetism, temperature, and shocks, ensuring precise, reliable operation.

5. What Expertise Defines Rolex’s In-House Gold and Gem Work?

Pure alloys cast internally combine with master gem-setting for flawless integration, creating a harmonious balance of luxury and durability unique to this model.