Rolex Sky Dweller Watches
The new kid on block, the Rolex Sky Dweller is the Swiss manufacturer’s youngest collection. One of the most innovative and complicated range of timepieces in the Swiss manufacturer’s illustrious range, this masterpiece of technology is protected by no fewer than 14 patents. A true style icon, Rolex Sky Dweller watches are a must for globetrotters and savvy collectors are like – due to their effortless combination of sophistication and ease of use.
The History of Rolex Sky Dweller Watches
Rolex Sky Dweller watches first made their debut at Baselworld 2012 and became the Swiss watchmaker’s first completely new collection for 20 years (following 1992’s launch of the Yacht Master II). Whereas that range was primarily focused at a small group of people who participated in sailing regattas, the Sky Dweller’s remit was a lot more universal. While it’s functionality would firmly put the timepiece in the sports collection, the minimalist profile and precious metal casings place it more among the dress watches. Indeed, it is described by many people as a GMT-equipped DayDate.
The name of the watch was revealed long before any other details, which naturally sent watch enthusiasts into a frenzy of trying to guess what it would look like. Most assumed that it would be a more robust version of the GMT-Master, much in the same way as the Sea Dweller is the more capable version of the Submariner. With its traditional fluted bezel and a lack of supplementary pushers on the case, it was soon clear that these predictions were incorrect and the watch was evidently meant to line up with the President and DateJust.
Rolex Sky Dweller watches sported a 42mm Oyster case that was topped with a sapphire crystal and fluted bezel. It was also water resistant for up to 100 metres. The dial includes dual time displays, a date window and month indicator. The centre hand indicates local time, while the 24-hour off centre disc shows a secondary timezone using the red arrow. Next to the hour markers are 12 rectangular windows that turn into another colour depending on the current month – with January being 1 o’clock, February being 2 o’clock etc.
The first three Rolex Sky Dweller watches were available in yellow gold with a matching Oyster bracelet, white gold with a matching Oyster bracelet and a rose gold with a brown leather strap. Another three models joined the collection, essentially flipping the appearance of the original trilogy. This means that the yellow and white gold versions came with leather straps, while the rose gold version had a matching Oyster bracelet. Rolex also added new dial design options in a variety of colours, with either Roman or Arabic numeral markers.
Up until 2017, Rolex Sky Dweller watches were exclusively available in 18ct gold, with nothing to appeal to fans of stainless steel. This all changed at the Baselworld convention, when the watchmaker unveiled two new Rolesor variants. Bringing down the entry price of the watches steeply, the new timepieces became available in steel and yellow gold, and steel and white gold. The watches were also given a subtle facelift, with baton indicators replacing the Arabic numerals. In addition, the centre hands were slightly lengthened to improve readability.
The Perfect Blend of Innovation and Simplicity
While it is safe to say that the Rolex Sky Dweller surprised pretty much everyone on its release, it quickly satisfied any potential detractors with its effortless combination of complicated operations with ease of use. An easy example of this is the integrated annual calendar, which automatically distinguishes between months that have 31 or 30 days. This means that the timepiece only needs to be adjusted once per year, rather than every month.
The rotatable Ring Command also lets the wearer easily choose between the different functions, just by changing how far it is rotated. For example, by rotating it one, two, or three times in an anti-clockwise direction, you can change the date, local time and reference time.
At its heart, the Rolex Sky Dweller is an extremely reliable chronometer that guarantees fantastic levels of precision. Perfect for frequent international travellers and for general use as well, this set of timepieces is the ideal addition to anyone’s collection.