In case you missed it, Rolex released a load of watches in one go on its website last night, and some of us have been scrambling to keep up with them along with the rest of the things we do in a day. In addition to the slew of new Submariners released, Rolex updated, changed and improved a few other significant watches in its catalogue for this year, so we thought it best to have a look at them in more detail.
The new DateJust 31
The first of the new watches to get an update is the DateJust 31. This ladies DateJust model is probably most recognisable by its unique bezel that’s rounded like the standard bezel but then set with diamonds corresponding to the hour markers. For the new 2020 models, you have a choice of three models with fluted bezels and coloured dials, or there is a watch with an aubergine-coloured dial and gem-set bezel if you wish. If you’re not so into the bling, then you have a choice of mint green, dark grey or white lacquer dials with a sunray finish. The watches are presented in a white Rolesor case with white Rolesor bracelet, that is to say, they’re made of steel and white gold. These models will cost between $7500 and $10,000 depending on the specific model you choose. The gem-set version with aubergine dial (ref. 278384RBR) will cost you $16,050.
The new Oyster Perpetual 36
Some folks see the Oyster Perpetual 36 as ‘dull’ because it’s the supposed “entry-level” Rolex model, but its simplicity and ruggedness combined with plenty of charm have always been the main selling points with this charming little number. In an effort to not be seen as the brand that only does black and white dials, the Oyster Perpetual 36 has received some rather striking dials to help it stand out. You’re given a choice of yellow, green, coral red, candy pink and turquoise. All of them feature Oyster bracelets and Oystersteel cases. Inside the watches is the calibre 3230 which features the Chronergy escapement that Rolex developed a couple of years ago, it’s way more accurate and efficient than a standard lever escapement and features a 70-hour power reserve too. All references of the watch will cost $5600 apiece.
The new Oyster Perpetual 41
While everyone was busy igniting comments sections of forums across the globe about the ridiculousness of Rolex only changing a couple of things, the new Oyster Perpetual undoubtedly slipped off the radar of many. The bigger version of the “entry-level” Rolex now comes in a 41mm case, eschewing the old 39mm Oyster Perpetual which is no longer available. The new watch comes with a few different dial colours; most are similar to the 36mm Oyster Perpetual. That means you get a choice of red, yellow, green, blue, turquoise, black sunray and silver sunray (that comes with flashy gold markers). The Oyster Perpetual 41 also features the calibre 3230 and will cost $5900.
The new Sky-Dweller
Since its introduction, the Sky-Dweller has always been the “big money” piece for the brand, overtaking the Day-Date and Yachtmaster 2 watches at its launch. Until a couple of years ago, you couldn’t get it in anything other than solid gold, and then when the Rolesor two-tone versions came out they started going for crazy prices on the pre-owned market. Now for 2020, those big gold pieces come back with a vengeance and a new Oysterflex rubber strap. Inside the rubber are flexible blades of metal made of titanium and nickel which are designed to be comfy on the wrist but retain the shape of the strap too, giving it rigidity. It also features a solid gold Glidelock clasp for easy resizing. That’s about all that’s changed, the 9001 calibre introduced at launch is still going strong with a 72-hour power reserve, it doesn’t have the Chronergy escapement yet, though. In yellow gold one of these will cost you a full $40,000, but if you want the Everose version then prepare to fork out $41,500.
That concludes our coverage of the new models unless Rolex would like to send us one or two for review… Or if they release something else this year as well.
Visit Rolex here.
