sky dweller or yacht master

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Rolex Sky-Dweller vs Yachtmaster 2, Which Should I Buy?

We are getting complicated with this comparison…and by that, we mean Rolex’s two most complicated watches, ever – The Rolex Sky-Dweller and Yachtmaster 2.

In this Rolex Sky-Dweller vs Yachtmaster 2 match up, we will be comparing both watches on the following aspects: 

Design & Versatility 

Complications & movement, prestige & recognition, resale value.

The Rolex Sky-Dweller and Yachtmaster 2 share a few commonalities. Both are Rolex’s newest line of watches (Yachtmaster in 1992 and Sky-Dweller in 2012), they have a Command Bezel, and they are two of Rolex’s largest, most complicated, high-end luxury watches. On the other hand, they are very different watches…

So, interested buyers often ask, “which is better (or which should I get), the Rolex Sky-Dweller or the Yachtmaster 2?”

We are here to compare and contrast, so you can make an informed decision and choose the watch that best suits you. 

SKY-DWELLER vs YACHTMASTER 2

Let’s just jump right into this, starting with the most perceivable aspect of this Rolex watch comparison. 

As with all Rolex watches, the Sky-Dweller and Yachtmaster 2 were designed with a purpose in mind. The Yachtmaster for those who traverse the seas and the Sky-Dweller for frequent travelers of the sky.

Let’s talk about each individually to keep things organized….

Yachtmaster 2’s Design

The Yachtmaster was designed for competitive sailors. Of course, this iconic timepiece is also worn by watch enthusiasts who have no interest in sailing yachts.

The Yachtmaster 2 offers brilliant contrast, with its snow white dial, sea-blue hands and accents, and the blue cerachrom bezel with numerals that match the metal of the watch. The contrast and distinct design of the dial make legibility a breeze and it gives the Yachtmaster 2 a one-of-a-kind sporty look.

You can get the Yachtmaster 2 in yellow gold, stainless steel or two tone rose gold and steel (as seen in this comparison). All have a blue bezel, but the gold and two tone versions have gold numerals on the bezel and the stainless steel has a white-ish silver color, as to match the metal of the case and bracelet. 

The Yachtmaster 2 has an Oystercase and Oysterbracelet. Rolex’s most iconic case and bracelet styling for their sports watches. However, with the Yachtmaster 2, you are looking at a supersized version. The case measures in at a loud and proud 44mm. As with all of Rolex’s standard Oystercases, it offers 100 meters of water resistance. Remember, this is a boat racing watch, not a diver. That said, 100 meters is more than enough for casual divers and the sailors who like to spend time in the water as much as they do floating on top.

The last point of the design we want to discuss is the finishing, which is absolutely superb. It uses a gloss finish for the case and center links of the bracelet, and the outer links are satin finished. It adds to the beauty and contrast of this wonderful stand-out sports watch…The cerachrom bezel is scratch resistant, so for those who are highly active, don’t worry about scratching the bezel on this one. 

Yachtmaster 2 Versatility 

The Yachtmaster 2 is a sports watch through and through. Although it can surely be worn dressed up and dressed down, it is in best form outside in the summer’s sun. 

Overall, it is a sporty, distinct, and dare we say, quirky watch that pops like no other in the Rolex sports watch line up. Can it be worn daily and with any outfit? Absolutely. But in our opinion, it’s best suited in a casual setting. 

Sky-Dweller Design

The Sky-Dweller was designed with the traveler in mind. For those who are often changing time zones, this is the ultimate watch to keep track of time.

Now, you might be thinking “doesn’t the GMT Master II do the same thing?”. It does, but what sets the Sky-Dweller apart is that it displays both time zones simultaneously and in real time. 

When first looking at the Sky-Dweller, you might mistake it for the Day-Date because of the monochromatic appearance and the fluted bezel. However, with closer inspection, it is clearly unique. The dial has a large disc above the 6, equally large hour batons, and the size of the watch is much greater with its 42mm case. Overall, the dial was really well done, as it provides a lot of information without any clutter. We will get into this in the complications comparison further below. 

As this watch is not a chronograph, it, of course, doesn’t have pushers, just a crown. It gives the watch a clean and dressy feel. Albeit, it is still a sports watch at heart. 

One thing that isn’t discernible when looking at the stainless steel versions of the Sky-Dweller is that the fluted bezel is actually made from solid gold. Thus, the stainless steel Sky-Dwellers are in fact Rolesors (Rolex patented name for their stainless steel/gold watches).

The Sky-Dweller comes in various versions. You have the all yellow gold, all rose gold, all white gold, two-tone gold and steel, and stainless steel with a white gold bezel. All stainless steel versions have a stainless steel case and bracelet and a white gold bezel . There are no 100% steel versions. But fore the purpose of simplicity, we will still refer to them simply as steel Sky-Dwellers. As for dials, there’s a variety of colors, from black and white to brown and blue. Although you will be hard pressed to find the stainless steel with a blue dial version, as everyone wants that sunburst blue dial. It’s absolutely gorgeous on the classic sporty white metal. 

In this comparison, you are looking at the steel with white gold bezel and white dial version, reference 326934 .

Lastly, the finishing is tremendously stunning. When you hold it in your hand and see it on your wrist, you will immediately understand the importance of a finely done finishing. It has a high polished case and center links, and the outer links are satin finished. It creates beautiful contrast within the same metal color. 

Sky-Dweller Versatility 

The Sky-Dweller is a sports watch that doubles as a dress watch. That said, it definitely has a more dressy feel to it thanks to the fluted bezel. 

In our opinion, the Sky-Dweller has more every day and every occasion appeal. It can be worn dressed up and dressed down to perfection. 

You can wear this with jeans and a t-shirt just as well as with a suit and tie. So, if you are someone who suits up or goes business-fresh during the week and then lays back on the weekend, the Sky-Dweller is the watch for you. It can be put to use at all times and whenever you want – stunning 24/7, 365. 

Now, let’s compare the complications and movements of the Sky-Dweller and Yachtmaster 2 , the two most complicated watches in Rolex’s catalog. 

Yachtmaster 2 Complications

The Yachtmaster 2 is a chronograph movement with a programmable timer that counts down ten minutes. Why 10 minutes? Well, it is a regatta timer, made for yacht racing! Although it’s a very niche complication, it is unique and useful for it can be found in many ways. You can set the countdown at any minute from 1-10. 

Now, unlike most chronographs, the Yachtmaster 2’s chronograph is controlled by the bidirectional bezel and the chrono pushers and crown. The bezel essentially allows you to change the pushers/crown function from controlling the countdown timer to the regular time of the watch. All in all, it is extremely easy to use and allows for rapid setting, which is often needed during race time. 

Yachtmaster 2 Movement

The Yachtmaster 2 is powered by a Rolex calibre 4161 movement. It has 72 hour power reserve and is COSC certified.

The 4161 is a Rolex patented movement that Rolex stated took 35,000 hours to develop. One of the patented functions contains 360 components, so you can understand why it was such a time-consuming process.

All that said, it is still not as complicated as the Sky-Dweller.

Sky-Dweller Complications

The Sky-Dweller technically has three complications, but essentially it is four as the bezel is a rotatable command bezel, meaning it is part of the movement and it controls the setting of the complications. 

The obvious complication is the date display. There’s not much to speak on this one. However, the other two complications are wonderfully innovative.

It has a GMT (or dual-time zone) complication which is displayed via the ring at the lower half of the dial. The second timezone uses a 24 hour display. The disc rotates with the time, so the red arrow pointing down is the time in the second time zone. 

Then, it has an entirely unique annual calendar complication. It is not noticeable if you don’t know what you are looking at, but once you do, with one glance you will know the month. The annual calendar is spread across the perimeter of the dial. Here’s how it works…

As there are 12 months in the year and there are 12 hour markers on a watch’s dial, Rolex inventively decided to use the hour markers as a way to indicate the month of the year. So, just above each hour marker is a little square space. You’ll notice one is red, the red one indicates the month. So for the watch featured in this comparison, the red marker is at the 1 o’clock, which means it is January. With each month, the red marker moves to the next marker. Incredibly complicated to create but wonderfully simple to use. 

Sky-Dweller Movement

At the heart of the Sky-Dweller beats the Rolex calibre 9001 movement. One of the most complicated movements Rolex ever created. It was made solely for the Sky-Dweller. The 9001 movement has a 72 hour power reserve like the Yachtmaster 2, and it beats at a 28,800hz frequency. As with all Rolex perpetual movements, it is COSC certified. Exquisitely accurate and undeniably reliable. 

As the Yachtmaster 2 has been around longer, it surely has more recognition. Moreover, the Yachtmaster 2 is much more distinct in design, so it is immediately identifiable. 

Conversely, the Sky-Dweller is the newest model Rolex has introduced, and it is often mistaken for a Day-Date. Nevertheless, any true watch aficionado knows a Sky-Dweller when they see one.

In terms of prestige, both watches have equal prestige in the watch collector community. After all, they are two of Rolex’s most expensive and most complicated sports watches. And they are both stunning.

The choice between the two usually comes down to preference and style. One is dressier and one is sportier, so both have their place in anyone’s watch box.

We would like to note that the Sky-Dweller is a guaranteed classic in the making. As a matter of fact, it was an instant classic. The demand for the Sky-Dweller makes this clear.

As for the Yachtmaster 2 , it is as iconic as any popular Rolex collection. 

As with any Rolex collection, some versions/references have more demand than others.

With the Sky-Dweller, it is the Steel Sunburst Blue Dial . If you want one new, you can expect to wait a year or so, unless you get super lucky. This has caused many buyers to look to the second-hand market, where they find the price significantly higher for the sunburst blue dial reference.

With the Yachtmaster 2, the situation is similar. The steel version is the most popular. However, we don’t see people waiting as long for the steel Yachtmaster 2. 

All in all, the Sky-Dweller seems to be more in demand right now. Currently, you are more likely to see a Sky-Dweller on the wrist of a celebrity than a Yachtmaster 2. Why? Because it is new and different. People want different. 

That said, you won’t have to look far to find a Yachtmaster 2 on the wrist of a famous person. People love big and noticeable, and Yachtmaster 2 provides that. 

To enter into the Yachtmaster 2 club, you will be paying a minimum of $16,000 for a new Yachtmaster 2. On the second hand market, you can find them for as low as $15-16,000 . This is for the steel versions, of course.

The price for the steel Sky-Dweller is around $17,000. The gold versions are around $48,000. On the second hand market, the steel blue dial Sky-Dweller is selling for around $25,000.

The above tells you pretty much everything you need to know about the resale value of the two. 

Now, we aren’t suggesting you look at the resale value when making a watch purchase. You should buy a watch you like, not because you want to sell it later on! Moreover, Rolex in general has the best resale value of any watch brand.

That being said, it doesn’t hurt to consider resale value. Especially if you like switching up watches after some time.

In any case, the Sky-Dweller has a better resale value. If we are talking the blue dial Sky-Dweller, you should be able to sell it for more than you bought it, pending it’s in good condition.

The Yachtmaster 2 should land you about the same price or a little less than what you bought it for. The Yachtmaster will appreciate in value as time goes on, though. 

How long this will remain true, we can’t be sure. The demand for certain references is ever-changing. Some references and models have proven to be consistent. The perfect example of this is the steel Daytona. 

VERDICT OF ROLEX SKY-DWELLER VS YACHTMASTER 2

Our final verdict is that both watches are worthy of purchasing. It all depends on what you are looking for. If you want a watch that is more sporty and durable, go for the Yachtmaster 2. If you want a watch that is the perfect combination of sporty and dressy, go for the Sky-Dweller. Think about your style. If you like to be the center of attention, the Yachtmaster 2 seems to fit that motive. However, if you like a more classy, high-end, versatile look, the Sky-Dweller provides that kind of wrist presence. 

Now, if you can get both, we say definitely get both. They are equally unique watches and they work for different occasions. The Sky-Dweller and Yachtmaster 2 should be part of every true watch collectors watch box, at least at some point in time. If you don’t want to cough up too much money at one time, get the one you desire more and keep your sight on getting the other in the near future. But, if you are willing to get both at the same time, it makes sense to do so as you can probably bargain a better deal when you buy two watches…when you are shopping the second hand market that is. 

Shop Pre-owned Sky-Dweller’s  Shop Pre-owned Yachtmaster 2’s

Wondering if the second hand market is right for you? Here are the pros and cons of buying pre-owned . 

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Rolex Sky-Dweller 336934 Ultimate Buying Guide

Among Rolex’s luxury watch collections sits the Sky-Dweller, a distinctive model launched in 2012. Designed with world travelers in mind, the Sky-Dweller provides both stylish looks and intelligent functions. Rolex has continued innovating within the Sky-Dweller line, blending precision timekeeping with useful complications. 

The newest iteration comes as the 2023 Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 336934 , encased in a 42mm case of Oystersteel and white Rolesor gold. Signature elements like the fluted two-way Ring Command bezel and opulent dial colors remain, while technical upgrades also emerge. Read on to discover what sets this contemporary Rolex release apart as a global citizen’s watch built for life on-the-go. From dual time zones to an annual calendar, explore the Sky-Dweller’s capacities and see why it is in a class of its own even among Rolex’s storied catalog.

Key Feature and Design Details

The newest reference 336934 contains all the trademark styling and functionality expected from the Sky-Dweller line. The 42mm case dimensions remain unchanged, with the steel and white gold offering a heft befitting the model’s worldly caliber. 

Notable is the bidirectional Ring Command bezel , rendered in white gold with the collection’s signature fluted etching. This ingenious interface allows all-access control for setting the Sky-Dweller’s functions, from the dual time zones to annual calendar displays. Just rotate the bezel to toggle through the settings, enabling quick adjustments while traveling. 

New dial colors also emerge on the Ref. 336934, like eye-catching mint green and a sleek bright black, joining previous options of icy blue and placid white. Signature Chromalight display ensures legibility in all conditions. And behind all these visuals, the Rolex 9002 calibre movement drives the Sky-Dweller’s capabilities, Rolex’s Parachrom hairspring, and Paraflex shock protection further enhancing accuracy and resistance to disruption. 

Functions and Usability

As Rolex’s most complicated model accessible to the public, the Sky-Dweller boasts an array of functions tailor-made for globetrotting. At the watch’s heart lies the calibre 9002 movement, self-winding for perpetual functionality and boasting an approx. 72-hour power reserve. The paramagnetic Parachrom hairspring components alongside high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers also make the movement highly precise and resistant to disruption.

Augmenting the central hours-minutes-seconds hands is an off-center rotating disc displaying 24 reference cities. This dual-time function allows the wearer to easily reference home time or any other chosen time zone no matter one’s location around the world. Setting this reference time and aligning it to the main dial is achieved via the Ring Command bezel as part of Rolex’s intuitive interface. 

But what truly distinguishes the Rolex Sky-Dweller collection is the annual calendar feature, eliminating the need to continually adjust for short and long months. By tracking 30 and 31-day increments automatically, it requires only one manual date adjustment per year. The month itself is read clearly through 12 rectangular windows arrayed around the circumference of the dial. A cyclops lens date window is also visible at the three o’clock marker.

Boasting robust construction alongside intelligent complications, the Rolex Sky-Dweller Reference 326934 represents a foremost globetrotting watch. Its Twinlock waterproof architecture meeting a 100-meter depth rating pairs well with a glare-proof sapphire crystal protecting the dial and uniformly bright Chromalight display. 

Signature Rolex refinements like the fluted bezel and supple Jubilee bracelet retain luxury pedigree while the annual calendar and GMT complication powered by Rolex’s in-house movement prove practical anywhere one may roam. For frequent travelers who mandate flawless style and peerless function in equal measure, the latest Sky-Dweller iteration upholds its trajectory as one of the world’s great adventure companions. 

Unique Characteristics

The 2023 Sky-Dweller Ref. 336934 debuts distinguishable new colors like mint green and bright black for the lacquered dial, contrasting beautifully with the fluted white gold bezel and stainless-steel case. This refreshed palette demonstrates Rolex’s knack for styling evolutions even amid an already iconic watch. 

And displayed against the dark dial backdrop, the Sky-Dweller’s innovative complications shine through in legible fashion. An inverted red triangle points clearly to the chosen reference city time along a rotating 24-hour disc, while red rectangles indicate the current month through 12 distinct window apertures. The black dial maximizes this functionality’s visibility, just as the mint green variation provides a more subtle contrast. 

While functionality defines the Sky-Dweller’s essence, several styling touches still grant the watch its revered aesthetic polish. The signature fluted bezel immediately aligns the watch with luxury expectations before any complications come into play. Hour markers evoke a classical elegance, framing the metallic hands and dot markings that populate the dial with information. 

And the watch’s sleek shape from lug to bracelet link retains continuity from previous Sky-Dweller generations, upholding Rolex’s careful refinement process across decades. This ensures comfort and proportional balance when choosing the three-link Oyster or five-link Jubilee bracelet pairings. Understated day or night, the Sky-Dweller cuts a fine figure even without its globe-trotting toolset on display. 

Eminently capable yet undeniably elegant, the 2023 Sky-Dweller Ref. 336934 epitomizes Rolex’s guiding ethos as a pragmatic yet opulent creation. For globetrotters unwilling to compromise either functionality or style, its rare hybrid merits shine through. 

Positioning and Availability 

As part of Rolex’s 2023 watch catalog , the latest iteration of the Sky-Dweller upholds the company’s unrelenting pursuit of excellence and innovation decade after decade. With a retail price between $15,650 to $15,900 USD, it manages to balance functionality against cost compared to even more complicated offerings labeled under the Rolex banner. 

Combined with Rolex’s reputation for uncompromising quality , the Ref. 336934 Sky-Dweller represents one of the smartest luxury sports watch values on the market today. Its versatile styling allows both understated cool or more outright professional flair depending on the bracelet and dial combination selected. And unrelenting global demand for Rolex watches ensures strong residual value should one ever consider parting ways. 

But perhaps most remarkable is how the Sky-Dweller demonstrates what the manufacturer is capable of when pushing boundaries. Rather than resting on laurels, Rolex continues carving new niches that expand conceptions of what a wristwatch can achieve. For Rolex Ref. 336934, that means melding precision reliability with intelligent displays suited ideally for world travelers. 

At once pragmatic and prestigious, Rolex’s latest Sky-Dweller iteration upholds the company’s track record of cult classics blended from equal parts engineering prowess and design savvy. A 21st-century watch balances beautifully between past heritage and future innovation. 

Final Thoughts 

With its 2023 Sky-Dweller 336934 model, Rolex affirms its leadership in crafting the ultimate globetrotter’s watches, deftly calibrated for both professional travelers and high-flying jet setters. Superlative design meets intelligent functionality through intuitive interfaces like the Ring Command bezel and Chromalite hour markers. Distinct dial colors inject fresh styling flair while retaining the signature traits of an eminent lineage. Everyday reliability secured by the manufacturer’s patented movements and hardened metals makes enjoying these multifaceted capacities effortless. 

Few timepieces so aptly navigate complexity against accessibility as Rolex’s unique luxury tool watch, manifesting generations of watchmaking refinements into a showcase formed to suit modern life’s boundless joys and challenges. Elevating human journeys has long pulsed at the brand’s core, a motive once again reaffirmed by the handsome and capable Sky-Dweller Ref. 336934. With vision cast perpetually forward but roots still firmly in excellent foundations, Rolex proves once more why its celebrated crown logo endures as the inevitable worldwide companion for life’s exciting odyssey. 

About Bobs Watches Editorial

With over two decades of experience in the luxury watch industry, the Bob's Watches Editorial Team stands at the forefront of watch expertise and insight. Our team, composed of seasoned watch enthusiasts, skilled horologists, and knowledgeable industry insiders, is dedicated to bringing you the latest and most accurate information in the world of luxury timepieces. We pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail and our unwavering commitment to authenticity. Our editorial content is a reflection of our passion for luxury watches and our dedication to providing our readers with comprehensive, unbiased, and up-to-date information. Our expertise spans a wide range of topics, including in-depth reviews of the latest models, historical retrospectives of iconic timepieces, and insightful analyses of market trends. We are also renowned for our detailed guides on watch maintenance and investment advice, making us a trusted resource for both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts alike. As thought leaders in the watch industry, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve. That's why we continually update our knowledge and skills, ensuring that our readers receive the most current and relevant information. Whether you're seeking advice on your next luxury watch purchase or looking to deepen your understanding of watch craftsmanship, the Bob's Watches Editorial Team is here to guide you.

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Hands-On: Rolex Sky-Dweller Watches Updated For 2023

Launched over a decade ago, the Sky-Dweller is a fascinating, albeit compromised Rolex watch worthy of attention. In typical Rolex style, the Rolex Sky-Dweller watches updated for 2023 carry over just about everything that has made the collection great while introducing minute and not-so-minute improvements and modifications.

As a start, here are a few points to remember about this steadily expanding watch collection. The Sky-Dweller is the most complicated Rolex watch in production today, thanks to its combination of an annual calendar complication with instantaneous displays that jump at midnight, two time zones, and a Ring Command system that enables the rotating bezel to act as a crown function selector. The Sky-Dweller is also among the biggest, widest, thickest, and heaviest Rolex watches ever made, and we have sampled all three of its new-for-2023 model variations: The White Rolesor version with Oystersteel case, bracelet, and 18k white gold bezel; the “baller” all-gold-everything 18k Everose variant; and the solid 18k white gold piece matched to a lightweight, “high-performance” Oysterflex bracelet. Let us discover which combination of materials best suits this “elegant and trusted companion for world travelers,” as Rolex puts it.

For almost 80 years, since the first all-gold Datejust debuted in 1945, it has been difficult to overstate the presence of an all-gold Rolex watch. Over that time the Day-Date, Submariner, and, much more recently, the Yacht-Master II have perpetuated a legacy of “holier than thou” wrist-bling through ever larger and bolder cases, bracelets, and dials. The Sky-Dweller doubled down on this when it debuted in 2012 in nothing else but solid gold, or be it exclusively with leather straps. Measuring 42mm wide, and 13.8mm thick, the Sky-Dweller is one of the largest Rolex watches, and also a medium-large watch in the greater scheme of things that wears larger than that 42mm figure would suggest. Notably, this effect is further emphasized by the turning of the large watch trend, which is to say that despite its elegant and un-sporty design, the Sky-Dweller is not a discreet watch by any stretch of the imagination, and especially not in yellow or 18k Everose gold.

If you want a solid 18k gold bracelet on your Sky-Dweller, as it stands, you have limited options as only the Oyster three-piece link style is available (the five-piece link Jubilee only comes in steel on the Sky-Dweller) and you can only have 18k Everose gold or 18k yellow gold as there is no Oyster bracelet in white gold or platinum. This is odd because the GMT-Master II does come with an 18k yellow gold Jubilee, and the Sky-Dweller is available on an Oystersteel Jubilee, so it might be a matter of time before a gold Jubilee bracelet option joins the Sky-Dweller collection. This is important because, with the wide, flat(-ish) links of the Oyster bracelet, the gold Sky-Dweller is an absolute beast of a watch that is as heavy on the wrist as it is on the eyes.

Introducing changes that can be measured in fractions of a millimeter is this new-for-2023 model you see above, called Rolex Sky-Dweller reference 336935. Until now, there used to be a difference in the lug width measurement of various Sky-Dweller watches, as the first gold models on an Oyster bracelet had a 21mm lug width, while those sold on a leather strap had a 22mm opening. The larger width was taken over by the Rolesor (two-tone) versions in 2017, and it is now, in 2023, that the yellow gold and Everose gold Oyster bracelet-equipped versions adopt this wider, 22mm lug design.

In parallel with this move, the center links of the gold Oyster bracelets of the Sky-Dweller watches have 0.5mm wider center links. Such a move makes the watch head optically smaller, which is not a bad thing given the high volume of the Sky-Dweller. The lug-to-lug measurement has been increased by 0.3mm, hinting at a slightly redesigned lug and case profile. Also new here is the dial Rolex refers to as “Blue-Green,” not to be confused with the Bright Blue dial on the Oystersteel-cased reference 336934 that actually costs a bit less than a third(!) of this all-gold model.

Also new is the Sky-Dweller reference 336934, a watch in White Rolesor, which is Rolex-speak for a watch that uses Oystersteel for most all of its exterior and 18k white gold for certain parts such as the bezel, center links, and crown — but it is just the bezel that is in 18k gold when it comes to the Sky-Dweller. Nuanced changes here include the aforementioned 0.3mm added to the lug-to-lug which aligns with what we saw with the 2023 redesign of the Rolex Daytona, where the steel version adopted longer lugs ( to its detriment, we thought ). Difficult to spot, but also new is a thinner seconds hand — which is as minute an alteration as they get, again, in typical Rolex fashion — and the fluted edge of the crown also appears to be thinner, symbolizing Rolex’s quiet efforts to make the Sky-Dweller a bit more gracious.

If you can’t live without a Sky-Dweller in 18k white gold, you can only have it on an Oysterflex “high-performance elastomer” strap. There is no solid 18k white gold bracelet available, so as to better optically differentiate white gold from White Rolesor. Oysterflex-equipped Rolex watches could often be ranked among the weaker value propositions from Rolex today, as they are just $8,000 less expensive than those on a solid gold bracelet, which is not much of a premium to pay for a full-gold Rolex compared to one on a strap — but hey, kudos to Hublot for establishing such a strong market for rubber strap-equipped solid gold watches.

A closer look at the dial reveals a telling little detail: The Rolex crown is now present at 6 o’clock (twice, in favor of symmetry) which on a Rolex watch means that a new-generation movement has been installed in the watch. In 2023, the Sky-Dweller debuts the 9002 caliber, a development on the 9001 that has powered it for over a decade. Modifications include the incorporation of the nickel-phosphorus Chronergy escapement into its design, which is a high-efficiency, Rolex-developed escapement that has played a significant role in bringing some of its two-day power reserve watches up to three days. Strangely, the Sky-Dweller sticks with the three-day autonomy that it has had since 2012, and so it is the stronger anti-magnetic properties and the greater efficiency of the escapement (and hence yet greater accuracy over a depleting power reserve) that owners might take advantage of.

In conclusion, the Sky-Dweller quickly (by Rolex standards) grew into a versatile collection not just in terms of design and choice of materials, but also in terms of value proposition. The Rolex Sky-Dweller in White Rolesor (Ref. 336934) is priced at $15,650 USD and it is a ton (almost literally) of watch for that money. Presenting an annual calendar with a peripheral layout for the month and the added horological flex of instantaneous displays together with a second time zone, the addictively tactile Ring Command system, a 72-hour, 4 Hertz, remarkably accurate movement, and Rolex build quality, is an extremely strong proposition for just under $16,000. The Rolex Sky-Dweller wrapped fully in 18k Everose gold (Ref. 336935) is priced at $50,900 USD , demanding the stratospheric (and ever-growing, still) premium that an all-gold Rolex tends to have, but in return delivering the power-factor anyone who buys a colored gold Rolex is after. Last, the Rolex Sky-Dweller in white gold on an Oysterflex strap (Ref. 336239) is $42,700 USD representing the worst value-for-money here, which isn’t shocking from products designed to cater to those who want the latest trending luxury product — which the 18k gold Rolex (or Patek Philippe, for that matter) on a rubber strap definitely is. You can learn more at the brand’s website.

SwissWatchExpo Ultimate Guide to the Rolex Sky-Dweller

The Rolex Sky-Dweller celebrates its first decade of existence in 2022. When it was introduced, it was a trailblazer in every way. Not only was it Rolex’s first entirely new watch in two decades, but it was also Rolex’s first ever annual calendar complication. Combining high functionality with sleek good looks, Rolex truly reached for the skies with the Sky-Dweller.

Today, it is still the most complicated watch that Rolex offers. While it remains a top-of-the-line offering, it has become much more approachable over the years, with the addition of Rolesor and Oysterflex bracelet options.

Ever dreamed about owning a Rolex Sky-Dweller ? The time is ripe for you to get one. Learn more with SwissWatchExpo ‘s Ultimate Guide to the Rolex Sky-Dweller.

Rolex Sky Dweller 18k White Gold Black Dial Mens Watch 326139

About the Rolex Sky-Dweller

Introduced in 2012 at Baselworld, the Rolex Sky-Dweller is a very young addition to the brand’s portfolio. Without ties to any historical model, the contemporary timepiece came with a host of innovations: the first annual calendar from Rolex, the entirely new caliber 9001, and a bezel-operated control mechanism called the Ring Command.

The Rolex Sky-Dweller was the most highly anticipated watch at the time. It got the entire horology community talking as it brought an exciting and novel concept to the brand. Not to mention, its combined dual time and annual calendar are exclusive to the Sky-Dweller collection, making it among the highly sought-after pieces from the Rolex catalog.

Designed with sophisticated frequent fliers in mind, t he Rolex Sky-Dweller also presented the best of both worlds when it comes to aesthetics, combining the elegant styling of the Rolex Day-Date , and the bearing of a sports watch with its large 42mm case. Even more appealing is the Sky-Dweller’s remarkably clean and legible presentation of the complex dual-time and annual calendar features.

The Sky-Dweller has seen some changes and upgrades throughout its brief existence. However, Rolex is still writing history with this watch, which is still in its first generation. Here are the important milestones in the Rolex Sky-Dweller history:

2012:  Rolex introduces the Sky-Dweller. It had been 20 years since Rolex came out with an entirely new model, the last one being the Yacht-Master , launched in 1992. Several key features set it apart from the other members of the Rolex portfolio: its 42mm case, which makes its sizing similar to Rolex tool watches, despite its dressy looks; the combined 24-hour GMT function with a 12-month annual calendar; and the Ring Command Bezel which allows the wearer to set the time and date while being an aesthetic addition to the watch.

In comparison to other Rolex models, its dial is also a little more complicated, and yet easy to read. The time is shown by the center hands, the date by the window at 3 o’clock, and the month by the little rectangular windows next to the hour markers. A red arrow pointing to a 24-hour disc that is slightly off-center on the dial denotes the second time zone. Rolex created this large sub-dial to display your ‘home’ time, commonly known as the ‘reference time,’ while the center hands show the local time. Except for the addition of new colors and hour markers, the general layout of the collection has remained the same.

The initial line-up was composed of models in 18k yellow, white, and Everose gold.

ref 326938:  18K Yellow Gold Case and Bracelet

ref 326939:  18K White Gold Case and Bracelet

ref 326135: 18K Everose Gold Case and Brown Leather Strap

The yellow gold model had a champagne dial, whereas the white gold model featured a champagne dial. The chocolate brown dial on the Everose gold piece complemented the warm rose hue of the precious metal. These original Sky-Dweller models employed a black-colored indicator for the annual calendar, while the indices were only available in Arabic or Roman numerals, giving the dial a more intricate and exquisite appearance. They also remain in production, with the exception of the white gold variant, which was discontinued in 2018.

2014: Rolex expands the Sky-Dweller collection with three more references in the same gold alloys. Introduced at Baselworld, these newer models came with new dial colors (black dial on the white gold version, rhodium dial on the Everose gold edition). Rather than black, they also came with a red indicator for the annual calendar.

New bracelet options were also introduced: the yellow and white gold versions were given the choice of a leather strap in brown and black, while the Everose gold model was given a matching Everose gold Oyster bracelet. With these additional band selections, collectors can now select a matching gold bracelet or a leather strap for each of the distinct colors of gold.

ref 326138:  18K Yellow Gold Case, Leather Strap

ref 326139:  18K White Gold Case, Leather Strap

ref 326935:  18K Everose Gold Case and Bracelet

However, at the time, the Sky-Dweller was still the newcomer on the block, not fully adopted by the generally faithful Rolex community. The dial was mostly at fault, but so was the hefty price tag. The Sky-Dweller, made of solid 18k gold and having one of the brand’s most sophisticated movements, was one of the most expensive models from Rolex, and not all collectors were completely sold on it yet.

Rolex Sky-Dweller Steel White Gold Blue and Black Dial Mens Watches 326934

2017: Rolex makes the Sky-Dweller more accessible by finally introducing Rolesor versions – combining stainless steel with 18k yellow and white gold.  T his significantly reduced the entry-level price of the watch and allowed the brand to reach a broader audience. It wasn’t just about the price; this change was also about appealing to enthusiastic collectors who don’t enjoy wearing pure gold watches or who value the durability of a stainless steel model.

The first of the two new Sky-Dweller measures about 42mm and has a stainless steel case, yellow gold fluted bezel and winding crown, and an Oyster bracelet with yellow gold center links and stainless steel end links. 

The second new Sky-Dweller used even more steel. It’s called ‘White Rolesor,’ which means it uses both white gold and stainless steel. However, while the Yellow Rolesor edition features a gold crown and center links, it is only the bezel that is made from gold on this version. This particular model is the least expensive Sky-Dweller there is  – but because of high demand, it often sells for more than its retail price on the secondary market.

Moreover, Rolex outfitted the ‘White Rolesor’ Sky-Dweller with a blue, white, or black dial, with blue being the most in-demand model in the entire line. It also came with luminous baton hour markers rather than numerals, which gave the dials a cleaner and more contemporary look. These new indices also made the apertures of the annual calendar smaller and square.

ref 326933 : Stainless Steel and 18K Yellow Gold Case and Bracelet

ref 326934: Stainless Steel and 18K White Gold Case and Bracelet

Rolex Sky-Dweller White Gold White Dial Watch 326934

2020:  Rolex adds another bracelet option to the collection – the Oysterflex. Equipped with a pair of flexible, titanium-nickel alloy blades built into it, the Oysterflex provides the resilience of a metal bracelet with the flexibility and comfort of a rubber strap. This option comes exclusively with the 18K yellow and Everose gold versions. This update also came with the discontinuation of leather strap models within the collection.

ref 326238: 18K Yellow gold with Oysterflex bracelet

ref 326235: 18K Everose gold with Oysterflex bracelet

2021: Rolex adds the dressier Jubilee bracelet to the Sky-Dweller collection. If the Oysterflex was added to the solid gold versions, the Jubilee was paired with the Rolesor gold and stainless steel models, giving them added flair and an a ir of luxury . The Jubilee bracelet, which consists of three rows of small central links bordered by two rows of bigger links, was initially released in 1945 in the Datejust line to commemorate Rolex’s 40th anniversary. Along with the President, it was the company’s first exclusive bracelet and one of their more opulent and dressier designs. Today, the Jubilee is still a Rolex trademark and is offered in a wide variety of metals, link styles, and sizes.

The middle links of the Jubilee are yellow gold on the Yellow Rolesor model, just like the Oyster bracelet variations. The entire bracelet is constructed from stainless steel on the stainless steel or ‘White Rolesor’ type. Both watches are still being manufactured today.

ref 326934: Stainless Steel and 18K White Gold Case, Stainless Steel Jubilee bracelet

ref 326933: Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold Case, Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold Jubilee bracelet

Overall, the addition of the Jubilee bracelet to the Sky-Dweller line emphasized the watch’s luxury appeal and added more variety to the collection.

2022: The Rolex Sky-Dweller celebrates a decade of existence.

Key Features of the Rolex Sky-Dweller

The Rolex Sky-Dweller range has evolved in its decade-long history. While aesthetic improvements and metal and bracelet options have been added to the collection, its key features remain. Here are the distinguishing features of the Rolex Sky-Dweller.

Rolex Sky Dweller Yellow Gold Steel White Dial Mens Watch 326933

CASE DIAMETER: 42mm

MATERIALS: 18k Gold (Yellow, White, or Everose); White Rolesor (Steel & White Gold), Yellow Rolesor (Steel & Yellow Gold)

DIALS: Baton, Arabic, or Roman (discontinued)

BRACELETS: Oyster bracelet, Jubilee bracelet, Oysterflex bracelet; Leather bracelet (discontinued)

FUNCTIONS: Hours, minutes, and running seconds; Date Display, Month Indicator, GMT Functionality, Annual Calendar

MOVEMENT: Rolex Caliber 9001

WATER RESISTANCE: 100 Meters / 330 Feet

OYSTER CASE

The Rolex Sky-Dweller comes in a 42mm Oyster case, guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet). While its shape is reminiscent of the Rolex Day-Date, its large (for Rolex) size and thickness give it a bearing similar to that of a sports watch.

When it was first released in 2012, the Sky-Dweller was available in 18k yellow gold, white gold, or Everose gold. It also came with the choice of either Arabic or Roman numeral hour markers on the dial. Five years later, Rolex added two-tone Rolesor options to the collection and updated the dial to feature luminous baton hour markers for a neater and more modern look.

A WIDE SELECTION OF BRACELETS

In addition to new metals and dial colors, Rolex has expanded the Sky-Dweller range with new strap and bracelet options. Initially, the solid gold models came equipped with a leather strap or an Oyster bracelet. However, the leather strap varieties have been discontinued (together with the white gold equivalents) and were replaced in 2020 by identical solid gold models with rubber Oysterflex bands. A year later, in 2021, the iconic Jubilee bracelet was made available as an option for the steel and gold ‘Rolesor’ models.

Rolex Sky-Dweller Rose Gold White Dial Mens Watch 326935

RING COMMAND BEZEL

All Rolex Sky-Dweller models come with an 18k yellow, white or Everose gold fluted bezel. While we see this elegant and interesting design in Rolex Datejust and Day-Date models, what makes the Sky-Dweller bezel different is its added functionality. It is in fact a Ring Command Bezel, which works in tandem with the winding crown, and can be used to select which function on the watch will be adjusted.

The Sky-Dweller’s Ring Command Bezel has a total of 4 positions – 0 through 3, 0 being all the way to the right, and 3 being turned all the way to the left. By shifting through these positions, one can set the local time (which jumps in one-hour increments), the reference time (shown on the 24-hour disc), or the date and the month of the annual calendar.

This bezel, which has 60 distinct parts, is patented by Rolex. At the heart of this feature is a double cam and levers that activate the movement’s multiple gear trains. Overall, this is an absolutely intelligent move by Rolex and possibly the most stunning element of the Sky-Dweller.

24-HOUR DISPLAY

While the local time is shown using the hour markers and read using the conventional center hands, the Rolex Sky-Dweller has a 24-hour display that shows the reference time or the time at home or at the traveler’s home base. This display is shown via the off-center disc with numbers 2 to 24. The disc works together with the red arrow below 12 o’clock to indicate your reference time. Wearers can modify the time without changing the seconds or reference time, thanks to its bidirectional jump-hour technology.

SAROS ANNUAL CALENDAR

The Rolex Sky-Dweller’s annual calendar mechanism, named SAROS, stands out for its innovative display. The months of the year are indicated by 12 apertures located above the hour markers, with the current month marked in red. The annual calendar also displays the correct date throughout the year and only needs to be adjusted once – on the 1st of March, with February having only 28 or 29 days. The date is connected to local time and always displays the current date in the wearer’s local time zone.

Furthermore, the SAROS Annual Calendar employs a fixed planetary gear wheel at the movement’s center. The date disc moves the satellite wheel, which interacts with the planetary wheel month by month. Where things become tricky is that certain months have fewer days than others. A four-finger component is attached to the satellite wheel for this purpose. On months with 30 days, the satellite finger receives an additional impulse to jump two days on the 30th of the month. As a result, the aperture always displays the right month.

Rolex Caliber 9001 (photo: Rolex)

9001 MOVEMENT

All Rolex Sky-Dweller models are powered by the in-house Caliber 9001 movement. It is one of the most complex calibers created by the brand but was engineered to guarantee simplicity of use. A selector wheel on the outside edge of the 9001 allows the Ring Command Bezel to work with the movement in setting the Sky-Dweller’s functions.

The movement is also fitted with the blue Parachrom hairspring for protection against magnetic fields and temperature fluctuations, and Paraflex shock absorbers for increased shock resistance. It also offers an ample 72-hour power reserve  and a frequency rating of 28,800 vibrations per hour.

Popular Rolex Sky-Dweller Models

The Rolex Sky-Dweller has a lot going for it: the combination of a large case with dressy looks, the sophisticated GMT and annual calendar features with an intuitive dial, and the ever-increasing range of options within the collection. You can’t go wrong with the Rolex Sky-Dweller, but here are some fan favorites:

ROLEX SKY-DWELLER BLUE DIAL ref 326934

The blue dial Rolex Sky-Dweller was introduced in 2017, as part of the more accessible stainless steel and gold models. The dial not only fits right in with the monochromatic finish and sporty Oyster bracelet, but it’s also in tune with prevailing sport watch trends, as we have seen with the Nautilus , Royal Oak , and the Seamaster . Cleaner baton hour markers also provided a more modern look and ease of reading.

The release of this version appeared to pique collectors’ appetites and stimulate interest in all of the earlier, previously overlooked versions, as well as the new steel and gold Rolesor alternatives.

ROLEX SKY-DWELLER WHITE GOLD BLACK DIAL ref 326934

Introduced in 2017, the ref. 326934 is considered an entry-level model in the Rolex Sky-Dweller collection. This model is perhaps most often seen with its handsome blue dial installed but it is also available with a black dial, which is perfect for those who prefer a monochromatic display. Its brooding watch face makes the white gold-outlined hands and hour markers pop, while subtle red accents add a playful touch.

Housed in a 42mm case made of Oystersteel with a fluted rotating bezel made of 18-carat white gold, the ref. 326934 creates a clean and classic look suitable for the beach, the boardroom, and everything in between. It is also quite a bit lighter than the full-gold models, and better at withstanding a daily beating.

Like many other modern Rolex watches, this watch has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal over the dial and an Oyster bracelet.

(photo: Rolex)

ROLEX SKY-DWELLER STEEL YELLOW GOLD WHITE DIAL ref 326933

Technically speaking, the Sky-Dweller ref. 326933 looks similar to the previous model, the ref. 326934 but with bezel, crown, hands, indices, and center links crafted in solid 18k yellow gold. In addition, its dial is white rather than black.

Visually, this timepiece is most similar to the Datejust, to which the Sky-Dweller cannot help but be compared especially when paired with the Jubilee bracelet. However, with a 42mm diameter, it has a larger presence than even the largest Datejust model ever made. Having said that, the gently sloping bezel causes this watch to lie lower on the wrist than its specifications suggest, and it does not seem out of place in more formal situations.

Powering the ref. 326933 is the automatic Caliber 9001, which offers a -2/+2 seconds per day accuracy rating after casing and 72 hours of power reserve. A high-performing Paraflex shock absorber increases the shock resistance of the movement. Rolex continues to manufacture this reference to this day.

ROLEX SKY-DWELLER EVEROSE GOLD ref. 326135

The popularity of rose gold watches has grown among sport watch enthusiasts, as they provide a one-two punch: high functionality paired with luxury appeal. Rolex Sky-Dweller Everose Gold models are made from the brand’s patented rose gold alloy, whose combination of pure gold, copper, and a small amount of platinum gives a long-lasting color and shine. Dial colors come in chocolate brown, rhodium gray, and intense white which complement the alloy’s warm luster.

The Sky-Dweller ref. 326135 stands out because of its sheer size and attractive color. Crafted from 18k rose gold, it pairs well with any ensemble and can be easily spotted across the room. Instead of a matching metal bracelet, it has a leather strap in a beautiful tobacco brown tone.

This model, like many leather strap-equipped Sky-Dwellers, has lug hoods; however, it is fully made of Rolex’s unique 18k Everose gold alloy, which is specifically designed to keep its warm color even after lengthy exposure to outer elements. It also has a sapphire crystal that is scratch resistant and a fluted rotating bezel that lends interest. 

As you might have come to expect by now from a company like Rolex, the Sky-Dweller ref. 326135 is exceptionally made. Both the hour and the minute hands are lit up so that you can easily see them at night. The watch also has a 24-hour time on the inner ring and a 12-hour time on the outer ring. The watch also shows the date, which happens so regularly.

(photo: Christie’s)

ROLEX SKY-DWELLER WHITE GOLD ref. 326939

The ref. 326939 is one of the solid 18k gold Sky-Dweller references to be released in 2012. Like its siblings, it comes with a gold case and a matching gold Oyster bracelet. It did, however, replace the yellow gold and Everose gold of the other two references with a full 18k white gold construction, giving it a considerably more subtle overall appearance.

A true masterpiece, the ref. 326939 also boasts an ivory dial and an 18-carat gold fluted rotating bezel. Despite the iconic Rolex sweeping second hand, it also contains a feature that allows you to quickly configure it as well as maintain track of seconds. In addition to its monochrome appearance, the watch is waterproof to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet), making it  usable even for swimming, snorkeling, and light water sports.

Overall, the ref. 326939 is an exceptionally stunning timepiece that functions just as well as it looks. It really is the total package, all rolled up in one. Despite the more expensive asking price, it is a one-of-a-kind timepiece that just cannot be replicated. As a result, it’s one of the most impressive Rolex Sky-Dweller watches one can purchase. 

This model was manufactured until 2018 when Rolex discontinued all solid white gold Sky-Dweller references.

How To Use the Rolex Sky-Dweller

The Rolex Sky-Dweller runs on the in-house Caliber 9001 – one of the most complex movements ever created by the Swiss brand. Introduced in 2012, it is a certified Swiss Chronometer and includes Paraflex shock absorbers to ensure the escapement has a smooth ride as it ticks through its huge 3-day power reserve. A blue Parachrom hairspring guarantees that magnetic fields and temperature changes have the least effect on timekeeping.

An ingenious creation, the Caliber 9001’s setting system was inspired by Rolex’s earlier entry into complicated sports watches with the Yacht-Master II, and the major feature that distinguishes this system from other complicated timepieces on the market is the fluted Ring Command Bezel, which is crafted in 18k gold. This, together with the middle links of the Yellow Rolesor model’s Oyster bracelet, adds weight and allows wearers to select the function of the watch by winding the crown. You can change the local time, the reference time, or the date and month of the annual calendar by navigating through the settings.

Rolex Sky-Dweller 18k White Gold Black Dial Mens Watch 326139

The annual calendar keeps track of the month and date, distinguishing between months with 30 and 31 days and requiring only one modification per year, on March 1st. While it does not recognize leap years, as opposed to perpetual calendars, the wearer only has to set the date once to ensure the accuracy of all calendar functions. Rolex’s Caliber 9001 achieves this with only four gears added to the present design that displays the date – a solution that, by its sheer simplicity, helps to maintain the movement nicely and durably.

As the median option in terms of convenience, annual calendars are likewise right down the middle when it comes to price. On average, they are more expensive than basic calendar watches, but they are usually far less expensive than perpetual calendars, whose very sophisticated inner workings usually come with an equally fantastic fancy price tag.

The display of the annual calendar on the Sky-Dweller is one-of-a-kind, with an unobtrusive window situated on the border of the relevant hour marker that represents one of the twelve months of the year. For instance, depending on the model, the window adjacent to three o’clock will appear red or black to denote the month of March. The aperture next to 4 o’clock changes color for April (the fourth month). As a result, it is quite easy to understand the information at a glance.

To set the Sky-Dweller’s annual calendar, one must use the Ring Command bezel. Position Zero is the typical setting for this, with the bezel, turned all the way to the right or clockwise. You cannot use any of the complications while in Position Zero. The bezel must be rotated to Position 2 (left) in order to set the date and month via the crown. The month will change if the date goes over 30 or 31 and this is represented by a different hue in the aperture pane. Finally, after making any changes to the watch’s functions, remember to reset the bezel to Position Zero.

Rolex Sky-Dweller 18k Everose Gold Roman Dial Mens Watch 326935 (photo: Christie’s)

In addition to the annual calendar, a 24-hour ring is used to signify a second time zone. All of this is governed by a traditional crown. As previously explained, the crown works in tandem with the Ring Command bezel. The bezel is used to select a function in this system, and the information is subsequently set via the crown.

The second setting of the crown allows the main hour hand to be moved independently of the minute hand at hour intervals. The next position adjusts the minute and hour hands, and the 24-hour disc. It may appear to be a bit perplexing at first, but after a few uses, it becomes intuitive and is in reality a very elegant solution. The last bezel setting allows the wearer to adjust the calendar information in both directions.

Common Questions About the Rolex Sky-Dweller

Built for the sophisticated global traveler, the Rolex Sky-Dweller is a stylish watch equipped to tell time across the world. Here are some of the most common questions asked about the Rolex Sky-Dweller.

WHAT IS A ROLEX SKY-DWELLER?

The Rolex Sky-Dweller is a watch that displays the time in two time zones simultaneously and has an annual calendar that shows the date and month with minimal adjustment. It brought together these two complications and combined them with an ingenious control element: the Ring Command Bezel.

All Sky-Dweller models come in a 42mm Oyster case and are available in a variety of metals and straps.

WHY IS THE ROLEX SKY-DWELLER SO EXPENSIVE?

The Rolex Sky-Dweller is one of the most advanced and innovative Rolex watches, which is protected by 14 patents. It includes a clever annual calendar feature, and a dual-time zone capability, both controlled using the Ring Command Bezel.

The technical sophistication, ease of use, and patented features of the Sky-Dweller collection make it unique in the world of watches and therefore fetches a higher price tag.

Rolex Sky-Dweller Yellow Gold Oysterflex 326238 (photo: Rolex)

HOW WILL I KNOW IF MY ROLEX SKY-DWELLER IS GENUINE?

Rolex watches are built to meet uncompromising quality standards. If you see any sign of a flaw on the watch, such as misaligned or misspelled text, unfinished surfaces, or wrong engravings and markings, it is most likely a counterfeit.

It is also a must to do research on your desired model, and become familiar with its supposed features. This will help you in checking if the details on the watch are correct.

The best way to avoid counterfeit watches is to purchase a watch from a reputable and trusted dealer, such as SwissWatchExpo , who can provide a guarantee of authenticity on the watch.

IS THE ROLEX SKY-DWELLER WATERPROOF?

Rolex Sky-Dweller watches are guaranteed water resistant to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet). It was not made specifically for diving, but they come with screw-down crowns and case backs, which protect the movement from moisture that can be encountered with daily use.

Interesting Facts About the Rolex Sky-Dweller

1. the sky-dweller is one of the most complicated watches created by rolex..

The Sky-Dweller is the most complex watch from Rolex together with the Yacht-Master II, introduced in 2007. The Sky-Dweller includes a GMT function and an annual calendar in addition to the hours, minutes, and seconds.

Rolex Sky Dweller Yellow Gold Steel Champagne Dial Mens Watch 326933 (photo: Rolex)

2. The Sky-Dweller is the first annual calendar by Rolex.

Although Rolex has offered a GMT function since the 1950s, the Sky-Dweller is the first Rolex model to include a true complication – an annual calendar. The watch’s annual calendar is based on a mechanism known as SAROS. To produce an entire annual calendar, two-gear ratios and four-gear wheels had to be incorporated into the original Rolex calendar mechanism.

3. The Sky-Dweller  is Rolex’s newest collection.

Rolex is not a company that regularly rolls out new collections. In reality, it is a fairly uncommon occurrence. Instead, the Swiss company depends on well-known classics such as the Submariner and Datejust, to mention a few. Keep in mind that Rolex is about development, not revolution. To that end, rather than always introducing new models, the brand works to enhance the aesthetics, quality, dependability, and performance of the timepieces in its current collections.

But every now and then, the brand releases new and unique creations. The Sky-Dweller is one such example. Introduced in 2012, it is currently Rolex’s most recent offering. It’s a brand-new model that stands alone and is designed for sophisticated jet-setters.

4. The Rolex Sky-Dweller has 72 hours of power reserve.

A power reserve of three days when fully wound is quite adequate. It gives just enough time to switch out the Sky-Dweller with another wristwatch. You can, for example, wear a different watch for a few days and then return to a fully functional Sky-Dweller without having to reset the time.

5. The Rolex Sky-Dweller is protected by 11 to 14 patents.

Like most modern Rolex watches, the Sky-Dweller boasts numerous patents – 11 to 14 to be exact, depending on the version. This includes the Ring Command bezel that sets all of the watch’s functions including the second time zone and annual calendar. Having said that, one can deduce that the watch was created after years of research and development.

6. The Rolex Sky-Dweller  comes with a Ring Command bezel.

The Sky-Dweller’s fluted bezel may initially appear to be an ordinary decorative one. But the truth is that it is so much more. It is actually a sophisticated function known as a Ring Command bezel, which interacts with the movement directly.

By rotating the bezel, one can adjust the date, local time, or reference time, all from the crown. There are three different positions on this patented bezel, and that allows the crown to have only one setting position.  It takes 60 components to make this brilliant technology work, at the center of which is a double cam that engages the gear trains inside the movement. Many consider this as the most impressive attribute of the Sky-Dweller.

7. The Rolex Sky-Dweller was only available in precious metal for the first five years.

The Sky-Dweller was only produced in white, yellow, or Everose gold for the first five years of its existence. As a result, the Sky-Dweller fell into the premium price range, making it only available to a select group of people. This naturally caused people to overlook the watch.

That all changed in 2017 with the introduction of Rolesor versions that combine stainless steel with solid gold. Not a lot of collectors expected this move from Rolex. This made the Sky-Dweller more accessible to a larger audience.

Rolex Sky-Dweller Blue Dial Steel White Gold Mens Watch 326934 (photo: Rolex)

8. The Rolex Sky-Dweller was the first new collection from Rolex since 2007 (technically since 1992).

As mentioned, the Sky-Dweller was released in 2012. If you include the Yacht-Master II, it was Rolex’s first new line since 2007. But, excluding the Yacht-Master II, the Sky-Dweller was Rolex’s first new model collection since the Yacht-Master debuted in 1992.

Rolex, as a brand, is about evolution rather than revolution, so its primary focus is on continually enhancing and refining its present collections. However, due to the Sky-Dweller’s manufacture, there is now only one generation. Perhaps an updated version will be released in the future.

9. The Rolex Sky-Dweller relies on the Caliber 9001.

The Caliber 9001 is one of Rolex’s most sophisticated movements. Developed and manufactured entirely in-house, it is complete with a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, Parachrom hairspring, and paraflex shock absorbers that increases its resistance to shocks – particularly if dropped. It also offers 72 hours worth of power reserve and is certified by the COSC, which means that Sky-Dweller is precise and of high quality.

10. The Rolex Sky-Dweller has a Reference Time and Local Time.

On the Sky-Dweller’s dial, a little red arrow is located 12. This points to an off-center revolving disc with a 24-hour scale. Both the arrow and ring represent your reference time, which could be your home time.

Meanwhile, the Sky-Dweller’s hands display the local time, which is set via a bidirectional jump-hour mechanism. The date is linked to the local time, which changes in a matter of milliseconds at midnight. With the Sky-Dweller, Rolex achieved its goal of creating a stylish, easily readable watch with two time zones.

11. The Rolex Sky-Dweller maintains the same style despite having several metal configurations.

All Rolex Sky-Dweller models measure 42mm and feature a water-resistant Oyster case and a flat and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.

Stylish, highly functional, and intuitively designed, the Rolex Sky-Dweller has been the choice timepiece of world travelers. Explore our collection of Rolex Sky-Dweller watches at SwissWatchExpo.com .

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OYSTER PERPETUAL SKY-DWELLER

TO THE ULTIMATE AND BEYOND

With its two time zones and annual Saros calendar, the Sky-Dweller is an elegant and trusted companion for world travellers. The range has been updated with numerous enhancements illustrating the role that excellence plays even in the tiniest details.

A WEALTH OF EXPERTISE   An elegant watch for frequent travellers, the Sky-Dweller displays the time in two time zones simultaneously and has an annual calendar. The reference time is displayed in 24-hour format via an off-centre disc, and local time is read using the conventional centre hands. The annual calendar, named Saros, automatically differentiates between 30- and 31-day months. It is operated by a patented mechanism and stands out for its innovative display: the months of the year are shown in 12 apertures around the circumference of the dial, beyond the index hour marker – the current month being shown in red. The instantaneous date change is linked to the local time. The Sky-Dweller includes the Ring Command system, an interface between the rotatable bezel, winding crown and movement that allows the wearer to select and set the timepiece’s functions one by one, easily, quickly and securely.

ROLESOR, A MARRIAGE OF GOLD AND STEEL Rolesor, the combination of gold and Oystersteel on a Rolex watch, has been a signature feature of the brand since 1933, when the name was registered. It is a meeting of two metals: one, noble and precious, attractive for its lustre and stability; the other, highly resistant to corrosion, assuring strength and reliability. All of these qualities mirror the elegance and performance that come together in a Rolex watch. On the new Sky-Dweller offered in the white Rolesor version, the bezel is in white gold; the winding crown, middle case, case back and bracelet are in Oystersteel. 

THE OYSTER CASE, SYMBOL OF WATERPROOFNESS  A paragon of robustness and elegance, the 42 mm Oyster case of the new-generation Sky-Dweller is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet). The middle case of the versions presented is crafted from a solid block of Oystersteel, or 18 ct white or Everose gold. Its case back, edged with fine fluting, is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that allows only Rolex watchmakers to access the movement. The Twinlock winding crown, fitted with a double waterproofness system, screws down securely against the case. The crystal, which features a Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock for easy reading of the date, is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire and benefits from an anti-reflective coating. The waterproof Oyster case provides optimal protection for the movement it houses.

PERPETUAL CALIBRE 9002 The new-generation Sky-Dweller is equipped with calibre 9002, unveiled this year. A distillation of technology, this self-winding mechanical movement – a derivation of calibre 9001, one of the most complex movements designed by Rolex and which had driven the model since its launch in 2012 – delivers outstanding performance in terms of precision, power reserve, convenience and reliability. Calibre 9002 incorporates the patented Chronergy escapement, which combines high energy efficiency with great dependability. Made of nickel- phosphorus, this escapement is resistant to strong magnetic fields. The movement is fitted with a blue Parachrom hairspring, manufactured by Rolex in a paramagnetic alloy. The hairspring offers great stability in the face of temperature variations as well as high resistance to shocks. It is equipped with a Rolex overcoil, ensuring the calibre’s regularity in any position. The oscillator is mounted on the Rolex-designed, patented high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers, increasing the movement’s shock resistance. The oscillating weight is fitted with an optimized ball bearing. Calibre 9002 is equipped with a self-winding system via a Perpetual rotor. Thanks to its barrel architecture and the escapement’s superior efficiency, the power reserve of calibre 9002 extends to approximately 72 hours.

OYSTERFLEX AND OYSTER BRACELETS Among the versions of the new-generation Sky- Dweller presented this year, the watch in 18 ct white gold sporting a bright black dial is fitted on an Oysterflex bracelet. Developed by Rolex and patented, this innovative bracelet is made up of two flexible, curved metal blades – one for each of the sections – overmoulded with high-performance black elastomer. The new white Rolesor version (combining Oystersteel and white gold), adorned with a mint green dial, as well as the 18 ct Everose gold watch, with a blue-green dial, are fitted on an Oyster bracelet. Developed at the end of the 1930s, this three-piece link bracelet remains the most universal in the Oyster Perpetual collection and is known for its robustness. The Oysterflex bracelet and the Oyster bracelet of the Sky-Dweller are both equipped with a folding Oysterclasp. The Oysterflex bracelet is furnished with the Rolex Glidelock extension system. Developed by the brand and patented, this inventive mechanism with a rack located under the clasp cover enables fine adjustment of the bracelet length, without the need for tools. The Rolex Glidelock on the Oysterflex bracelet has six notches of approximately 2.5 mm, allowing the length of the bracelet to be adjusted easily up to some 15 mm. For its part, the Oyster bracelet of the Sky-Dweller features the Easylink comfort extension link, developed by the brand, which allows the wearer to easily increase the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm. On the version in 18 ct Everose gold, the bracelet also includes patented ceramic inserts – designed by Rolex – inside the links to enhance its flexibility on the wrist and its longevity. 

SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER CERTIFICATION Like all Rolex watches, the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification redefined by Rolex in 2015. This designation testifies that every watch leaving the brand’s workshops has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories according to its own criteria, following the official certification of the movements by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). The in-house certification tests apply to the fully assembled watch, after casing the movement, guaranteeing superlative performance on the wrist in terms of precision, power reserve, waterproofness and self-winding. The precision of a Rolex Superlative Chronometer is of the order of −2 /+2 seconds per day – the rate deviation tolerated by the brand for a finished watch is significantly smaller than that accepted by COSC for official certification of the movement alone. The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolized by the green seal that comes with every Rolex watch and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.  

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Mastering the Rolex Sky Dweller

In the past half-century, since it launched its GMT-Master, Rolex has brought out just two new complications : the Rolex Yacht-Master II, in 2007, with a countdown yacht timer, and the Rolex Sky-Dweller , equipped with both a second time zone and an annual calendar, in 2012. In this feature we explain how the Sky-Dweller, and its innovative movement, works.

The Rolex Sky-Dweller contains the in-house Caliber 9001. The second time zone is indicated by an off-center, rotating 24-hour disk. Local time, indicated by the center- mounted hands, can be adjusted quickly when you change time zones by setting the hour hand forward or backward in one-hour increments. The minutes, seconds, and second-time-zone indicators are not affected during this operation.

The calendar mechanism, which changes instantaneously (an annual calendar automatically differentiates between months of 30 days and 31 days, and need be adjusted just once per year, at the end of February) is relatively simple, Rolex says: the company has added just two gear ratios and four gear wheels to its existing instantaneous date calendar. As Rolex explains it, “The mechanism is designed around a fixed planetary gear wheel at the center of the movement. A satellite wheel engages with the planetary wheel and rotates, orbiting the planetary wheel in one month, driven by the date disk. The satellite wheel is fitted with four fingers for the four 30-day months (April, June, September and November). Click on watch photos for larger images.

Click here to watch the Rolex Sky-Dweller video…

“The gear ratio between the satellite wheel and the planetary wheel is calculated in such a way that at the end of each 30-day month – and only in these months – one of the satellite’s fingers receives an additional impulse from the date-change mechanism. This makes the calendar disk jump two days (from the 30th to the first) within a few milliseconds to display the correct date.” Rolex has dubbed the mechanism “Saros,” a Greek word that refers to the approximately 18-year cycle that can be used to predict when eclipses will occur. Rolex chose the name because it brings to mind the revolutions of the Earth and moon, which are like the motion of the satellite wheel (the Earth) with its four fingers (the moon). The Rolex Sky-Dweller calendar has an unusual month display. The hour numerals correspond to the 12 months of the year. Next to each numeral is a window. The window for the current month (e.g., “IIII” for April,) is black; the other 11 windows are white. (On the brown-dial model, the correct month is indicated by a white window for better contrast.)

To set the watch, you use both the bezel and the crown . First you rotate the bezel to one of three positions to select which of three functions — date, local time or home (24-hour) time – you want to set. Then, using the crown, you set the function, going either forward or backward. Rolex says, “The heart of the mechanism is a double cam and levers that engage various gear trains inside the movement according to the function selected. One of these cams is activated by pulling out the winding crown; the other is driven by rotating the bezel [Rolex calls it a “Ring Command Bezel”] to activate setting wheels located in the middle case of the watch.” Caliber 9001, which has bi-directional winding is, like all Rolex calibers, certified by COSC . It has a stop seconds function and a power reserve of 72 hours. The movement has 380 components and is protected by seven patents, four of them new.The case is 42 mm in diameter and water-resistant to 100 meters. The Rolex Sky-Dweller comes in white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, on matching bracelets or leather straps, and in a version with case and bracelet made of Rolex’s proprietary Everose gold. Prices range from $38,150 to $48,850.

This article was originally published in 2012 and has been updated with new text and art.

I want to have information of only Rolex watches new and old

I only whish the yellow gold model had roman numerals iam waiting to get it

Nice but not my favourite Rolex.

This watch was designed by a gentleman while sitting under the ugly tree,much like every Rolex watch ever made.What about some genuine creativity. John Landy

J E A L O U S.

Innovative? Yes. Ugly & overpriced? Yes. Sky Dweller is another model that the market accepted lukewarmly. It seems that Rolex has lost its knack with certain lines.

Design likes are subjective and many may agree with you. One thing undeniable is the typical Rolex architecture in design of a watch with an advanced movement which subtly provides dual time zone performance along with a full calendar needing to be adjusted once every five ur years with its chronometer movement. This watch is not often in stock at jewelry stores as there is significant demand for the production.

Is it a Vacheron Constantin or Patek’s?…No. It is defineately Rolex styling and a typical Rolex movement, designed to last generations.

Seriously considering the yellow gold model of Sky Dweller. Love the watch and its features but already have two Rolex watches recently purchased. Date Just II looks a lot like the Sky Dweller, even to the Champaign dial. We’ll see…

The case is 42 mm in diameter and water resistant to 100 meters. —- WRONG! water PROOF….***

We agree that the Rolex Sky Dweller is the most intricate and amazingly innovative automatic winding watch in the marketplace today!

I love my yellow gold model. It has become one of my favorite time pieces.

If only rolex had not overlaped the lower numerals with the 24hr disc this watch would have been perfect.

I agree with Anand.

I also agree with Anand. With the additional comment that it looks strikingly similar to the Date Just. They must be thinking what works for one model will work for another. –Chris

After the Explorer II, this is probably the best looking Rolex out there. Love the white gold version. If only I had enough time (read: money).

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The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium, Very Rolex Yet Surprisingly Disturbing

It is undoubtedly a rolex from head to toe, yet it felt very surprising on the wrist....

Launched in 1992, the Rolex Yacht-Master has undoubtedly enjoyed a long shelf life but has never attained the same cult status as a Submariner. A watch inspired by the nautical world and meant to be used as a luxury yachting watch, its vocation and looks have always been slightly confusing. It looks somewhat like a Submariner but without the diving credentials. It has sporty specifications, yet it is truly luxurious and has often appeared in precious metals. Recent versions, with the enlarged 42mm diameter and the matte black bezel, changed this perception. But clearly, it’s the new Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium that signs the independence act of the collection. We’re taking a closer look at this watch that feels extremely familiar and, at the same time, left us with contradictory thoughts. Good or not, let’s check this out. 

Some context

The Yacht-Master collection was introduced at the 1992 edition of the Baselworld Fair. And believe me, this was quite an event. Rolex is known for its strategy of incremental updates and rarely presents new watches. In fact, when the YM was launched, it was one of the very few entirely new collections since the launch of the Daytona in 1963. However, despite the new name (well, not entirely, as it was first used in the late 1960s on a prototype watch based on a Daytona) and its unprecedented vocation within the Rolex portfolio, the watch felt familiar.

The modern-day version of the Yacht-Master made its first appearance with the reference 16628, an 18k yellow gold version with a white dial and black-filled hour markers. Looking at it, the resemblance with the Submariner and other aquatic models at Rolex is… obvious. Some say (nothing official here) that during the 1980s, the brand experimented with many different options to revamp its iconic Submariner. Several attempts later, something close to the Yacht-Master appeared; however, Rolex felt that redesigning the Sub was probably not the right move. Yet, the design caught people’s attention but had to be slightly updated so as not to cannibalise the all-important Submariner. The decision was made to position this design as a higher-end, luxurious nautical model.

The differences were straightforward: steel, 300m water-resistant case, black bezel, black dial and instrumental characteristics for the Submariner compared to the gold; 100m water-resistant case, bright dial, solid gold bezel, more rounded shapes and luxurious touches for the Yacht-Master. However, the visual resemblance persisted, which is probably why it took many years for the YM to become a model on its own. An important moment in the history of this watch is, to me, the introduction of the reference 116655 , an Everose model with a matte black dial, a matte ceramic bezel with raised numerals and the Oysterflex rubber bracelet. This is the moment when the YM became different… and much more attractive.

Since then, Rolex has gradually improved its nautical watch with the release of the Yacht-Master 42 – a new size, larger than a Submariner, to differentiate the collection. It would later be followed by a very appealing yellow gold edition .

The Prototype Yacht-Master 42 of Sir Ben Ainslie… In titanium

The current RLX Titanium edition of the Yacht-Master 42 doesn’t spring out of nowhere. It has existed for about three years already, but only as a prototype, on the wrist of legendary sailor Sir Ben Ainslie – winner of the 34th America’s Cup with Oracle Team USA in 2013, four-time Olympic champion, CEO and Skipper of INEOS Britannia and skipper of the Great Britain SailGP Team. This watch came to us as a surprise long after its creation in 2020. Despite appearing in the wild repeatedly, we only noticed its existence in late 2021, after it was mentioned in an interview on October 2020 in The Week . It was also mentioned in the official Rolex print magazine.

The watch in question, a prototype made exclusively for Ainslie for a very specific purpose and designed to be tested on the field, was made in RLX Titanium (back then an unprecedented material for Rolex, which would later be used on the Deepsea Challenge ) and looked like a deluxurised version of a well-known watch. Entirely matte, equipped with a black dial and black bezel and with a no-date display, it was worn on a technical NATO strap, which according to the brand, combines Cordura with high-performance elastomer and is closed by a Velcro for easy adjustments.

The existence of this watch immediately gave us some ideas, incorporated in our 2022 Rolex Predictions featuring a titanium Yacht-Master . And as we anticipated, it became a reality this year .

The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium

This year, Rolex launched its commercial version of the Yacht-Master 42 Titanium, which resulted in a slightly different watch from what we’ve seen on the wrist of Ainslie. More in line with the current white gold and yellow gold YM42 , the watch has many distinctive features. It isn’t just a titanium attire; it is a standalone model with its specificities and unique features.

First of all, let’s talk titanium at Rolex. The brand, over the years, has been using an array of metals – steel, with its own Oystersteel alloy (904L), gold in all possible colours and even proprietary alloys and platinum. Ceramic has long been used too, but only for bezel inserts. Rolex has never used ceramic or any other high-tech material for its cases. Until the recently introduced Deepsea Challenge , titanium has remained a rarity, used for the caseback of the Sea-Dweller Deepsea and for the Pelagos , which isn’t a Rolex but a Tudor, so it doesn’t really count.

Now, in less than six months, Rolex has released two watches made entirely of titanium, with an alloy named RLX – which is grade 5 titanium. One is a beast, a gigantic timepiece made to explore the deepest point of the oceans – a watch, objectively speaking, that is hardly wearable. The other one, the Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium reference 226627, is certainly one of the most comfortable models in the brand’s collection.

As said, the YM42 Titanium is more than just a new material applied to an existing watch. Of course, it shares multiple elements with its gold siblings, but some details truly set it apart. The case measures 42mm in diameter with a fairly contained 11.60mm thickness. Measuring 50.3mm from lug-to-lug, it’s not the smallest watch in the brand’s portfolio and wears slightly larger than a classic Submariner (40.5mm x 12.5mm x 47.6mm). All parts of the habillage are made of titanium, from the monobloc middle case to the crown, the rotating bezel, the caseback and the bracelet. The specifications are classic Rolex Yacht-Master, with a Triplock crown with integral guards, a screwed back, a sapphire crystal with AR coating and a Cyclops lens over the date and 100m water-resistance.

Classic features of the YM have been retained, such as the bidirectional bezel with a 60-minute Cerachrom insert. The latter sticks to the classic look of the collection, with a matte base and raised, polished numerals and markers without a lumed index. What makes the Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium so special, then? Well, first of all, the case features one very appealing detail: bevelled lugs. A nod to the past, this feature is exclusive to this titanium version and brings more dynamism to the case, as well as providing a nice historical reference – something that Rolex fanboys will surely appreciate (I do…). The second specificity of this model is its matte look. But I’ll come back to that point later.

The dial of this titanium YM42 is, however, classic. It retains most of the attributes of the white gold reference 226659, with oversized applied markers and hands in polished white gold and all tracks and printings in white. There is not a single touch of colour on this dial, which comes in a new colour named intense black, with a fine satin finish. Matte, with a velvet-like texture, this dial isn’t pure black like most of the watches in the brand’s collection but feels more like a very dark anthracite. Combined with a flat sapphire crystal with AR coating, the result is an almost complete lack of reflections. And the overall legibility, thanks to large markers and great contrast, is superb.

Inside the case is a classic Rolex movement, the calibre 3235 – used in the Submariner Date , the Datejust 41 and 36 , the Sea-Dweller or the Deepsea . A Superlative Chronometer (meaning certified by COSC and then by Rolex once the movement is encased), this automatic movement comes with all the recent innovations of Rolex: a bidirectional rotor on ball bearings, a Chronergy escapement, a paramagnetic nickel-phosphorus pallet fork and escape wheel and a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. It beats at 4Hz, stores a comfortable 70h power reserve and features an instantaneous date and a stop-seconds mechanism. Simply one of the best time-and-date engines on the market.

The bracelet of this new Yacht-Master 42 is also made of RLX Titanium. A classic 3-link Oyster style, it is also entirely matte with a so-called technical satin finish . Contrary to most Oyster bracelets, the sides are also matte, and only the Coronet on the clasp is polished. As you would expect, it is on par with Rolex quality standards, with an Oysterlock folding safety clasp and the Easylink comfort extension link to adjust the bracelet length by approximately 5mm. Also, this bracelet includes patented ceramic inserts inside the links to enhance its longevity and flexibility on the wrist.

Some thoughts… It is a disturbing watch (but a good one)

When you’ve been into watches for some years, you develop some preconceived notions about Rolex timepieces and the way they look and feel on the wrist. There’s a certain heft, a presence on the wrist, consolidating the perception of quality and solidity. There’s also a sheen that is unique to Rolex, with glossy bezels and dials. Rolex watches are so emblematic that your brain is pre-formatted to a certain conception of what they should look and feel like on the wrist. The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium changes everything and breaks the norm. And it left me with mixed feelings, but not necessarily in a bad way.

When you take a Submariner and strap it around your wrist, it feels like home… It’s reassuringly heavy yet comfortable. Even though weight might be a bit irrational, weight adds to the feeling of quality and weight robustness. Having worn Rolex sports watches on so many occasions in my personal and professional life, I expect a watch from the Crown to weigh about 150/160 grams on a bracelet. It is a construction that is so deeply embedded in my brain that the moment I strapped the YM42 Titanium, I was left with a very disturbing sensation.

Yes, the watch looks like a Rolex, but it doesn’t feel like one on the wrist. It’s about 35% lighter than steel (around 100 grams), and everything I associated with how a Rolex should feel on the wrist simply vanished. I don’t want to sound too dramatic, but believe me when I say that it was a rather special experience at first. But the beauty is that you soon forget about this first impression and enjoy a watch that is surprisingly light. Despite its size, it is extremely comfortable and balanced. A watch that you’ll forget in about 30 seconds after you strapped it on the wrist. The initial feeling of a lack of robustness is, of course, just a misinterpretation of a pre-formatted brain and has nothing to do with the actual heft of the watch.

The second surprise with this watch is how it plays with the light and its lack of reflections. As said, most sports Rolex have a certain sheen. Even a Submariner or a Deepea feature glossy, reflective parts, such as the bezel and the sides of the case and the bracelet. The Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium is the most matte watch in the brand’s collection, with only a few polished accents (numerals on the bezel, bezel rim, and crown guards). Even the bevel on the side of the lugs is satin finished. This lack of sheen is definitely something new to Rolex and, far from me to complain, makes this model one of the most discreet and instrumental in the collection. It’s monochromatic, light on the wrist, and despite a size that I would have loved to be a bit smaller, a real joy to wear. It’s not a poser’s watch. The Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium is a tribute to when Rolex watches were made for a job. Yes, I’m very positive about this new release.

Availability & Price

The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium 226627 isn’t yet available at retailers but will be soon. At least, on paper, as it won’t be easily accessible, even by Rolex standards. The brand doesn’t communicate production numbers, but we’ve heard that this will remain, for now, a rather exclusive model. It is priced at EUR 13,900 ,  CHF 13,400 or  USD 14,050 . More details at rolex.com .

Technical specifications – Rolex Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium 226627

10 responses.

RLX, which is Grade 5 Titanium. 🙂 I laughed out loud, because it’s just so typical for the obfuscation the brand foists upon us via their marketing behemoth on an annual basis.

A “Piece Unique” is more common than this model ….

I have been looking forward to this for a while. But, I was hoping/expecting a more adjustable bracelet. If they can do it on the Pelagos at 1/3 the price, there’s no excuse they can’t do it for this

I only know that the so-called special steel Rolex uses on the bezel of their regular models was soft and easily scratched on the Rolex I owned. My humble Tissot which I wore every day for years, was much more scratch resistant. I wasn’t impressed with the materials Rolex uses. They make them look impressive in photos.I thought Rolex was the watch to have, until I got one.Sold and moved on.

IWC Mark XX vs new Ingenuier – the internet melts down at how expensive the watch is using the same movement.

DJ36 vs YM42 RLX- the internet would do anything (deranged Sxual favors included) to pay double for the YM even though they have the same movement.

Quite like the look of this one on its own, but on the wrist it looks genuinly gigantic..

Old dog doing new trick? It’s tough

Well, it really looks nice, and if it is that big and only weights 100 grams, that is really awesome!!!! I love Titanium watches more than any gold watch. But I am of the opinion that although Rolex is a brand producing excellent watches with a QC second to none, it is still too expensive for my taste. I own since 2017 as part of my watch collection, an Ocean 7 Diver chronometer with an ETA 2824-2, saphire crystal, ceramic bezel, 2000m WR with He Valve, and it had never failed me as my daily watch, and I only paid for it 365.00 USD including taxes new. I also have a 1971 Submariner, and I use both daily,one on each wrist, and I don’t see any difference on the accuracy/function. But I have to pay a fortune every time the Rolex is serviced, not with the Ocean 7 that I can service myself- I am a pretty good amateur watchmaker myself, is one of my hobbies. And when I am working at the Hospital near the MRI machines with that strong magnetic field, I then use my Speedmaster Master Chronometer with cal.3861, and it works flawlessly, and it is less expensive than this YM. I like expensive watches, but still look for the best bang of my buck. And I am an owner of a JLC Deep Sea 40mm, a Blancpain Fifty Fatoms, a Zodiac Super Sea Wolf, a Juvenia 200M Diver’s, and an Omega SMPO as part of my diver’s watch collection. But I like this Titanium YM a lot more than the Submariner or the Sea Dweller. That is what I can say.

best thing about this watch is it’s an alternative to the biG piLLowized case of the redesigned submariner a few years back. softer scratchable titanium and no bezel lume (guess people only yacht in the daytime) are reasons not to buy.

Really, why does one need a 42mm titanium Rolex watch when sailing his uber racing yacht!?! One need to keep your eyes on the gyro compass, or the magnetic compass including (always) the trim of the sails including the large readout on the on the E-chart display which includes instantly time, speed, direction and position. Last: Why does one need a watch when sailing in a corrosive salt sea and air environment? Answer: Beats me unless one wishes to show off his wealth at the yacht club dinner during post racing presentations where a 42mm titanium Rolex is a must.

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The Oysterflex Bible – every Rolex Oysterflex reference, named and rated

We all know only too well how a Rolex Oyster or Jubilee bracelet embraces the wrist unlike any other assembly of steel parts available. It’s a watch bracelet with the feel of silk. Lesser common an experience is the sampling of an Oysterflex bracelet, Rolex’s version of a rubber strap. At the time it was released, the brand stridently avoided that description, by the way. We must mention neither the war, nor rubber.

Back then, it seemed like typical watch industry doublespeak – where every commoner material is granted a loftier title. That is, until it was in the hand; Rolex was perfectly right . Through typical – and utterly masterful – over-engineering, the brand succeeded in elevating the whole concept of rubber strap to another level. Since then, it’s become a ‘Flex by name, and a flex by nature – this is every current Rolex Oysterflex reference, in one handy place.

The beginning of the Oysterflex story

With its debut in 2015 on the 40mm and 37mm Yacht-Master , it made Rolex fun, dare we say it, even ‘urban’  and thereby captured a younger audience in the process. This was at the very dawn of ‘Athleisure’, and the tracksuited, Yeezy set happily spent double the price of a classic Submariner on a large gold sports watch on soft rubber.

I’m happy to admit I was of the staunch belief that while rubber was comfortable on my divers, when spending more than $20,000, the mere mention of it would make me laugh … it’s not premium, is it? Well, think again. The Oysterflex bracelet made me raise an eyebrow from day one, when Rolex insisted this was a bracelet and not a strap, unexpectedly not the point of contention it may seem. The material is a flexible high-density elastomer, which is commonly utilised for high performance bushings in sports cars. The raised eyebrow is back up — now raised out of interest. This sets the bar, revealing the years of research behind a mere strap (sorry, bracelet).

This is why it’s a ‘bracelet’, not a strap

The Oysterflex is, in 2020, by far the best example available of a rubber bracelet on the market, offering the durability of metal, the assurance and class of a deployant mechanism, and the comfort of rubber. Encased within the elastomer is a titanium-nickel core, giving it shape and structural integrity on or off the wrist. The bracelet itself features a patented tiered design and gives you a hitherto unknown feeling of comfort even on warmer days, as the shape lifts the bracelet up from your wrist with wing-like curved cushions.

This lends the Oysterflex a very different feeling to the lint-magnet clingy silicone you associated with the first raised eyebrow. A raised upper section creates a well-needed depth to the design, tapering discreetly to the brilliant solid gold Oysterlock deployant. The Oysterlock in itself is a detail good enough to spend an hour locking and unlocking if only to appreciate the haptics of the clasp. And yes, the genius of Easylink, allowing you an easy extension of the bracelet by around 5mm for a more relaxed fit in the summer heat when your wrist might expand by a millimetre or two.

They could not have made a bigger splash in 2015 than launching the Oysterflex on the sharply redesigned black dial Yacht-Master. The Everose gold, in its warm tone, was the perfect counterpoint to the matt black rubber strap, with the totally un-Rolex move of glossy black details on a matt black Cerachrom bezel. In an instant, Rolex went from your dad’s Sunday best, to out-customising the customisers with a dark take on cutting-edge luxury sports. Mic dropped, and AD stocks instantly depleted.

Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm ref.116655, the Origin of the Species

Yes, this watch is still the best of both worlds, with the warm glow of Everose gold and matt black looking at once tough yet precious on its black elastomer bracelet.

The sharpest applied indices this side of a surgeon’s scalpel is paired with the brilliant touch of a gold print logo under 12 o’clock, while the fresh red Yacht-Master logo is a touch of fresh genius. Read Andrew’s original, sharp in-depth piece here . RRP: The Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm ref. 116655 was $31,600AUD at time of launch and is now $38,600AUD.  A pavè diamond dial version is available as ref.126655

Rating: The OG, and still the King. 

Rolex yacht-master 37mm ref.268655.

Let’s be a bit cheeky here and look at the smaller brother of this warm-hued beauty. This is a perfect smaller edition of the original 40mm Yacht-Master, here in 37mm and still marketed as a ladies’ watch. Personally, I have both 36 and 38mm watches that are some of my absolute favourites in terms of wearability, so let’s open this one up to both sexes, shall we? The insider’s tip is that this one will be easier to get hold of at your local AD, and boy does it wear comfortably on the wrist, effortlessly slipping under a cuff and just as full of delightful gold and black elastomer contrast as its larger 40mm brother. RRP: The Rolex Yacht-Master 37mm ref. 268655 is $32,750AUD – Also available is a pavè diamond dial version like its 40mm brother has the ref.126655

Rating: I rate this model as unisex, and more likely than every other Oysterflex model to be available. 

Rolex Yacht-Master 42mm ref.226659, in white gold

Well, what can we say? The ref.226659 is simply more of a good thing, keeping the matt black Cerachrom bezel of the original, though here in solid 18k white gold — an example of stealth irony, which appeals tremendously to me. This Yacht-Master is ironically safer to wear on the street than a ’90s bi-colour GMT, thanks to its monochrome look, black Oysterflex and dark bezel, giving it a distinct tool watch vibe.

The contrasts work brilliantly, with the crisp white print and dazzle of the 18k white gold case being a sharp contrast to the black elastomer bracelet. Stealth Wealth is a term of ever-increasing popularity in 2020, and this would be the perfect choice. Read our story from 2019 here , and have a look at our reaction when it was unveiled at Baselworld here . Price: The Rolex Yacht-Master 42mm ref. 226659 is $40,750AUD

Rating: One of the greatest stealth wealth watches of all time

2017: The Daytona chronograph enters the ring

A year after the phenomenal reception of the steel and Cerachrom Daytona with its added strength and lustre to the bezel, Rolex introduced all three precious metal iconic chronographs with what was by now the talk of the town, the Oysterflex. All leather options on Daytonas are now replaced by the brilliance of titanium-nickel encased in elastomer, and gives the already sporty Daytona a tougher vibe. Should you want to bling it up there are plenty of exquisite diamond set and mother of pearl dials to choose from.

We covered this release in 2017 , and already then posed a question that will end this Oysterflex piece by yours truly … no points for guessing what we wanted to see. The Daytona models available on Oysterflex are the white gold reference 116519LN, the Everose gold reference 116515, and the yellow gold reference 116518LN you will find covered in our story here.   Prices: The Rolex Daytona ref. 116519LN is $41,850AUD , the  Rolex Daytona ref. 116515LN is $41,850AUD and the Rolex Daytona ref. 116518LN is $40,150AUD

Rating: Less lit than Lil Yachty, but a nice way to twist a classic 

New for 2020, the Rolex Sky-Dweller joins the Oysterflex family

The Rolex Sky-Dweller will never be a discreet timepiece or a tool watch; it owns its own rarefied air as the most complicated wristwatch in the Big Crown’s catalogue, and it is expressly for the wrist of business class travellers and beyond. Even with our sub-40mm focus today, 42mm is not large when you consider the inherent ergonomics of any Rolex case from 37 to 42mm, and why not enjoy some of the world’s most perfect bevels and dial details on a slightly larger canvas. The Sky-Dweller is the last reference to make you enjoy the soft embrace of the Oysterflex, and we covered this latest release in our story here.

Rating: The biggest ‘Flex yet, literally (because this model is 42mm)

The dazzling ones

Yes, we have an even stronger dial to give maximum effect and more flex than the bracelet can ever muster (sorry!), and that is the full dazzling shock value of a full pavè diamond dial on a matt black soft elastomer bracelet. Enjoy the comfort only an Oysterflex can bring to the party, and mix up your Haute Horlogerie with a healthy dose of pizzazz. And should you go searching on the pre-loved scene, there is also a rainbow bezel reference 116695 to be found should the pavè not be dazzling enough for Sir..

Price: The Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm ref.126655 is available. Price on request. As they say, if you don’t think you can afford it, don’t ask.

To conclude, Rolex rocks with the Oysterflex

It’s as simple as that. The group of staunch supporters of The Crown with eyebrows raised in shock at the mere notion of rubber touching the precious metal of a Rolex case is still there … all of four people. This was the contemporary boost that Rolex needed, and on that blessed day when they decide to fit the Oysterflex on a 41mm Submariner, well, may God help us all.

GMT-Master II

Witnesses to history

Exceptional timepieces

The GMT-Master and GMT-Master II owe their iconic status as much to their technical and design qualities as to the feats of the adventurers who have played a part in their story. Certain GMT-Master watches worn by remarkable individuals have witnessed history in the making. Over the years, Rolex has safeguarded this heritage by conserving some of these exceptional timepieces.

New-York – Moscow flight

From the White House to Red Square

Four years after its launch, the GMT-Master took part in an event that reinforced its image as a watch to connect people: the first non-stop flight by Pan Am between New York and Moscow. Not only was this historic occasion a technical exploit, it was also hugely symbolic. At the height of the Cold War, in July 1959, the plane was carrying journalists to the USSR to report on US Vice President Richard Nixon’s visit to the Soviet Union. At the controls of the Boeing 707 making this pioneering intercontinental journey was Captain C. N. Warren, who used his GMT-Master as a navigation aid. He stated that “the flight itself was navigated by Rolex.”

Pegasus Overland

A voyage of cultural discovery

In 1959, eight men from a British army regiment embarked on a round-the-world expedition named Pegasus Overland, which Rolex supported by equipping each team member with a GMT-Master. Driving two off-road vehicles, they travelled through Europe, Asia, Oceania and Africa, crossing some 34 countries. During the 51-week journey, they captured every moment on film. Their footage gives a unique glimpse of life around the globe in the late 1950s, showing the fashions, cultures, architectures and landscapes of the time.

The X-15 rocket plane

All-time record

From 1959 to 1968, NASA and the US Air Force developed the X-15 hypersonic flight research programme. The rocket-powered experimental aircraft were designed to test pilots’ ability to withstand the effects of extreme velocity and suborbital flight. The extensive data collected from measuring accelerations, pressures, shocks, vibrations, temperatures and other aspects of aerodynamic friction and atmospheric re-entry techniques led to major advances in aerospace research. Among the dozen or so pilots involved, William J. Knight was particularly outstanding. On 3 October 1967, over the Mojave Desert in California, wearing a GMT-Master, he attained a speed of 7,274 km/h (4,520 mph, or Mach 6.7), setting a record that stands to this day.

Apollo XIII

The heart of the space conquest

On 11 April 1970, the Apollo 13 mission left Earth on a voyage that was to be the third American moon landing attempt. Command module pilot Jack Swigert took with him a watch dear to his heart: a GMT-Master, which he wore throughout the mission, like a good-luck charm. Three days after lift-off, a technical fault caused an explosion in the spacecraft’s second oxygen tank. Launched on their lunar trajectory, the three astronauts had no choice but to continue on that course and loop around the Moon in their attempt to return to Earth. Swigert had to correct the trajectory four times. He saved the mission from tragedy by preventing the craft from ricocheting off the Earth’s atmosphere on re-entry. On 17 April, the capsule splashed down in the Pacific Ocean between New Zealand and Fiji, its crew safe and sound.

Apollo XVII

The final mission

On 7 December 1972, the Saturn V rocket launched from Cape Canaveral for the final Apollo lunar mission. Its destination: the highlands bordering the Sea of Serenity. One of the crew, Captain Ronald Evans, was wearing his GMT-Master. As the pilot of the command module, he remained in orbit while his fellow crew members landed on the Moon’s surface. On 14 December, the lunar module redocked with the Apollo 17 spacecraft to begin its long journey home. On 17 December, Evans conducted a spacewalk of over an hour. Two days later, the three astronauts were recovered following splashdown in the Pacific Ocean, closing the final chapter in the Apollo mission story.

The realms of the GMT-Master

Aeronautics

Conquering the skies

Astronautics

Rockets and time zones

From sky to screen.

Adventurers

On the wrists of extreme travellers

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