Diamonds, formed at naturally high temperatures and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust, are rare and extremely valuable. Additionally, they are not all created equal, which explains why Rolex only works with the most colourless ones that represent the pinnacle of quality in terms of purity, clarity, and intensity.
Likewise, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies are subject to a similar process: every step begins only after Rolex is confident that it has acquired only the best stones.
In this year’s unveiling, the new gem-set watches radiate brilliance unlike anything else. These three examples also demonstrate the company’s impeccable gem-setting skills.
Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 40
The Yacht-Master debuted in 1992 as a robust and utilitarian watch for navigators and skippers. Featuring a bidirectional bezel, Oysterflex bracelet with the Oysterlock folding safety clasp, and a Triplock winding crown with a triple waterproofing system, integral crown guard, and scratch- and glare-proof sapphire glass, it is perfect for exploring the seven seas.
With this new version of the Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 40, Rolex adds a touch of sparkle and colour. In white gold for the first time, trapeze- cut gems adorn the bezel. Pink, light and dark blue, as well as purple sapphires, and diamonds form a repeating sequence of five hues that portray the aurora borealis. The bezel is further enhanced by a triangular diamond at 12 o’clock, while the case shimmers with the light of 46 brilliant-cut diamonds.
It is fitted with calibre 3235, a new-generation Rolex movement that offers precision, shock and magnetic field resistance, and reliability. Additionally, it features a self-winding Perpetual rotor with approximately 70 hours of power reserve.
Oyster Perpetual Day-Date
Affectionately known as the presidents’ watch, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date is one of the most iconic watches of our time. As the first watch to show the full weekday, it set a new standard when it launched in 1956. Today, Rolex offers a bespoke day display in several languages. The semi-circular three-piece links represent refinement and comfort at their finest, and it is always made from precious metals.
Photo: Rolex.
This year, two new versions of the Day-Date shimmer with diamonds. The first is in yellow gold with 10 baguette- cut diamonds as hour markers and a dial that’s dressed in pavé diamonds. It is framed by a bezel also meticulously set with diamonds. The watch also features the trademark President bracelet.
The second showcases the classic ice-blue dial — a hue reserved exclusively for Rolex watches made of platinum, the most noble metal. It also has 10 baguette-cut diamonds as hour markers, plus a bezel set with baguette-cut diamonds specially calibrated to fit perfectly. The President bracelet completes its exquisite look.
Photo: Rolex.
Both these Oyster Perpetual Day-Date watches are driven by calibre 3255, a movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. As a showcase of Rolex technology, it offers fundamental improvements in precision, power reserve, shock and magnetic resistance, ease of use, and reliability.
