Rolex Day-Date 40 228398tbr-0042 40mm

The Rolex Day-Date 40 reference m228398tbr-0042 is a captivating evolution of prestige and innovative design, a timepiece that has embodied excellence since the Rolex Day Date‘s launch in 1956. Crafted entirely in radiant 18 ct yellow gold, this 40mm model features a striking green ombré dial—with a vibrant green center transitioning to deep black at the edges—and a diamond-set bezel, creating a mesmerizing gradient effect paired with sparkling accents. Ideal for those who seek bold yet refined luxury, it offers the iconic instantaneous day and date displays in a modern, artistic interpretation.

Exquisite Design and Gem-Setting Artistry

The m228398tbr-0042 enchants 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 sheen. The bezel, paved with diamonds, forms a brilliant frame where each gem is hand-set for precise alignment, orientation, height, and optimal light dispersion.

The green ombré dial is a technical and artistic achievement: a coloured surface at the center progresses harmoniously to deep black around the edge through the delicate application of black lacquer, a process overseen by specialists for seamless transition. This design, introduced in the 1980s and relaunched in 2019, adds depth and modernity. Chromalight luminescence on the hands and markers delivers a sustained blue glow. The day window at 12 o’clock spells the day fully, the date at 3 o’clock is enlarged by the Cyclops lens, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial.

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, with a concealed folding Crownclasp.

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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.

Technical Specifications

• Model: Rolex Day-Date 40 (m228398tbr-0042)
• Case Diameter: 40 mm
• Material: 18 ct yellow gold
• Bezel: Diamond-set, 18 ct yellow gold
• Dial: Green ombré (center green progressing to black edge) 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 Defines the Green Ombré Dial’s Unique Gradient?

A vibrant green center transitions smoothly to deep black edges via specialist-applied black lacquer, reviving a 1980s design for contemporary depth and visual intrigue.

2. How Is the Diamond-Set Bezel Engineered for Brilliance?

Gem-setters hand-craft seats in the gold, positioning each diamond for exact calibration, regularity, and maximum light return in a cohesive, sparkling design.

3. What Legacy Elevates the President Bracelet?

Debuted in 1956 for the Day-Date, its semi-circular links in precious gold offer refined fluidity and comfort, with a concealed clasp for seamless luxury.

4. How Does the Calibre 3255 Excel in Challenging Environments?

The Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex absorbers resist magnetism, temperature changes, and shocks, while the extended reserve ensures consistent, precise operation.

5. What Craftsmanship Underlies the Ombré and Gem Integration?

In-house expertise in lacquering and gem-setting creates flawless harmony, blending the gradient dial with diamond bezel accents for a bold, enduring masterpiece.