Every Rolex Tells a Story: Yundi

every rolex tells a story yundi
Every Rolex Tells a Story: Yundi
Keeping time is an essential skill for internationally acclaimed Chinese pianist Li Yundi. He cites “precision and the pursuit of perfection” as the ideals he strives for musically. These are also the ideals he strives for when choosing a watch. 

Yundi became the first Chinese person - and the first person in fifteen years - to be given the gold medal in the International Frederic Chopin Piano Competition in 2002. After that, he decided it was time for a well earned gift, so he made his first Rolex purchase.

The watch he chose was the sporty, black dial stainless steel Rolex Daytona 116500LN - an interesting choice considering that he is a classical pianist. However, the watchmaker intended for this watch to measure speed as well as time, so Yundi surely puts it to use when his fingers match the speed Mozart intended for his eleventh sonata.

The Daytona went on to accompany Yundi as he traveled the world, appearing in front of cheering crowds of piano-lovers. Some would argue that wearing a watch while playing the piano is too distracting, but it’s also important to note that Yundi sees this watch not as an accessory but as a witness. For many Rolex owners, their watches represent significant accomplishment and remind them of what they are capable of.

When it came time to give his father a birthday present, Yundi gave him a Rolex watch of his own and now they share in that success together. To learn more about Yundi’s contribution to the ongoing “Every Rolex Tells a Story” series, visit the watchmaker’s official website at rolex.com.

Rolex Datejust 41 Stainless Steel Black Dial Reference 126300

rolex reference 126300
Rolex Datejust 41 (Reference #126300) (photo: Rolex)
The Rolex Datejust 41 in stainless steel with a black dial (Reference #126300) is a modestly-priced dress watch with a combination of classic and contemporary design elements. The Datejust is the quintessential Rolex dress watch that dates back to 1945. However, this stainless steel configuration features a smooth bezel and black dial that makes it resemble a contemporary sports watch, like the popular stainless steel Submariner Date.

With a case that measures 41 millimeters in diameter, this Datejust also appeals to current watch collector’s desire for larger watch faces. It makes a great first Rolex for someone that isn’t sold on a tool watch but still wants something current. The smooth center links on its Oyster bracelet match the bezel and add an elegant touch. A folding Oysterclasp with a 5mm Easylink comfort extension secures the bracelet. The date aperture at 3 o’clock is magnified by Rolex’s Cyclops lens, one of the watchmaker’s most iconic design elements.

Priced at $7,350 USD, it is just over a thousand dollars less than the Submariner Date and  $800 USD more than the Explorer I. It is powered by a Calibre 3235 self-winding mechanical movement manufactured by Rolex in-house. This model offer a water resistance of 100 meters and a power reserve of approximately 70 hours.

The Datejust 41 (Reference #126300) carries the legacy of the historic Rolex model with characteristics of the most popular tool watches of today. It can be worn in almost any environment without calling too much attention to the wrist, making it the perfect watch for those who think yellow gold watches are gaudy. For more information on this model, visit rolex.com.

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