Technical Archive

Rolex
Day-Date 36 118348-0061— lug 20mm

Rolex Day-Date 36 118348-0061: 20mm strap. Alligator, box calf, shell cordovan and rubber, cut and stitched in Milano. Choose your leather.

Day-Date 36 Yellow Gold Diamonds / President Diamonds / MOP

Artisanal Note

"This model requires a precise 20mm lug width to preserve the original sartorial balance."

Technical Specifications

Rolex 118348-0061
Lug Width
20 mm

The essential strap measurement.

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Reference

118348-0061

Movement

Rolex caliber 3155 Hours, Minutes, Seconds | Date, Day | Chronometer

The Heritage

The Day-Date 36 was introduced by Rolex in 1956 as the first wristwatch to display the day and date in full. It is powered by the automatic caliber 3155 with chronometer certification, offering indications of hours, minutes, seconds, date and day of the week. The case diameter is 36mm with 20mm lugs.

FAQ

What is the lug width of the Rolex Day-Date 36 118348-0061?

The lug width of the Day-Date 36 118348-0061 is 20 millimetres. This measurement is critical when selecting an aftermarket strap: it must be measured perpendicularly between the internal points of both lugs, and the strap must not exceed this width to ensure proper fit and secure attachment.

Which strap material is recommended for the Rolex Day-Date 36 118348-0061 in yellow gold?

Alligator leather of premium grade remains the most coherent choice with the presidential heritage of the Day-Date 36 in yellow gold. Burgundy shell cordovan is a distinguished alternative for formal occasions, whilst vegetable-tanned calf offers greater daily versatility. Rubber straps are ideal for tropical or sporty environments, though they alter the formal aesthetic of the timepiece.

How do I change the strap on my Rolex Day-Date 36 118348-0061?

Strap replacement requires a spring bar tool — a specialised implement used to release the terminals. Position the tool beneath the horizontal pin connecting the strap to the case, apply gentle, even pressure to compress the internal spring, then slide the strap outward. The operation is reversible and requires no technical intervention: it is advisable to consult an authorised Rolex centre or qualified watchmaker if you lack the appropriate tool.

Can I use an aftermarket strap on my Rolex Day-Date 36 118348-0061?

Yes, aftermarket straps are compatible provided they strictly respect the 20mm lug width specification. High-quality artisanal straps — crafted from alligator, shell cordovan, or vegetable-tanned calf leather — are fully compatible with the 118348-0061. It is essential to verify that the strap has been manufactured specifically for this lug width, not for other watches.

How long does a leather strap last on the Rolex Day-Date 36 118348-0061?

Durability depends on material selection, frequency of wear, and environmental conditions. Premium alligator typically lasts 5–8 years with daily use, developing a fascinating patina over time. Shell cordovan is even more resilient, potentially exceeding 10 years, whilst vegetable-tanned calf has intermediate longevity of 4–6 years. Exposure to moisture, perspiration, and UV radiation accelerates wear. Proper maintenance—avoiding prolonged immersion and drying the strap after use—significantly extends service life.

The next step

The right strap isn’t chosen. It is built, together.

From the atelier appointment to delivery, every step is made for those who know that things done well take time. Rare leathers, one piece at a time, eighteen months of warranty.

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