Light Blue Rolex Milgauss Modification Idea

The first thing to take into account when deciding whether to modify your Rolex is that the watchmaker will not accept one of their timepieces for service if it has been modified. So, if you would like to change the color of the dial, for example, you will have to put the original Rolex dial back on before sending it in to the service center. If you make more permanent modifications, like adding a coating through a company like Titan Black, they will not work on the watch at all. This means that you will have to rely on someone else to service or repair your watch in the future.

If being blacklisted by Rolex Service Centers doesn't bother you and you plan on keeping your watch forever, you can feel free to modify your watch without being concerned about anything other than the dirty looks you will get from brand loyalists. There are many ways to modify a watch, from something as simple as swapping out the hour markers to more drastic modifications like blacking out or engraving. The good thing about a Rolex is that you don't have to modify them too much to make them stand out since there is such uniformity in their wristwatch model design. The photo above shows a Milgauss (Reference # 116400GV) that I altered in Photoshop.

The Milgauss is a charming model that is often overlooked. I love the lightning bolt second hand and its scientific legacy. But when it comes to the aesthetic, I have a hard time with the black dial combined with its orange and green design details. The Z-Blue dial version does a better job of offering a fresh and bold configuration, but the black dial isn't as sexy. I took to Photoshop to tweak the hour markers and other design details to make them pop against the black background and stainless steel case. I chose a light blue color that looks just as fresh as the Z-blue dial, but a little more low key.

While modifications are looked down upon by the watchmaker and purists, it is up to the owner of the watch to decide what to do with it. As long as you are okay with the restrictions that come with modifying your Rolex, I say go for it. If I've learned anything about watches in the past few years, it's that the most important part of owning a watch is that you love the way it looks on your wrist.

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Rolex Testimonee Yuja Wang (photo: Rolex/Hugo Glendinning)

Wang's musical education began at Beijing’s Central Conservatory of Music. In 1999 she moved to Canada to participate in the Morningside Music summer program at Calgary’s Mount Royal College. After that she enrolled as the youngest ever student at Mount Royal Conservatory. In 2001 she was appointed as a Steinway Artist and the following year when she was offered a place at Philadelphia’s prestigious Curtis Institute of Music where she studied with Gary Graffman. She graduated from there in May of 2008 after already achieving success after her debut a few years earlier with the National Arts Center Orchestra in Ottawa. 

2016 Rolex Explorer (photo: Rolex/Alain Costa)

The Explorer is Rolex's most understated professional model. In stainless steel with a simple and legible display, it is wonderfully symmetrical and easy to read. Its characteristic arabic numerals at 3, 6 and 9 o'clock have been filled with luminescent material in this latest version, making its Chromalight display look perfectly clear in the dark, as the photo below shows. In addition to the change in lume, this model also features an elongated minute hand for better legibility as compared to the shorter hand in the previous model, known as 'T-Rex', because the minute hand fell short of reaching the hour markers. Opinions differ as to which version better represents the Explorer, but when you look at the lume photo it is hard to deny that the luminescent numerals improve the display.

Chromalight Display of 2016 Rolex Explorer (photo: Rolex/Alain Costa)

The Explorer is powered by a 3132 self-winding mechanical movement manufactured by Rolex in-house. The Oyster case of this stainless steel sports watch measures 39 millimeters in diameter and features a smooth bezel and Twinlock winding crown. Waterproof up to 100 meters, it comes on an Oyster bracelet with an Oysterlock clasp that includes an Easylink 5 millimeter comfort extension link. The dial is black with a satin finish and the hour markers and numerals are made from 18 carat white gold and filled with long-lasting luminescence. The suggested retail price for the Explorer is 6,200 Swiss Francs or approximately $6,503 US. For more information on this and all of their models, including where to buy one, visit rolex.com. I've embedded the video below from their YouTube channel for additional information and beautiful shots of this classic Rolex.

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Rich Kids of London on Instagram

Amassing a following of over 150k followers in less than a year, Rich Kids of London is an Instagram account that posts photos of young British kids flaunting their parents' wealth. While many who are born to privilege prefer a lower public profile, these young Brits post photos of private planes and sports cars with cheeky captions about what their daddies' money can buy them. With the success of many troll accounts on the social media platform over the past few years, it was only a matter of time before one of them focused on the absurdities of youth and privilege.

When they're not pouring bottles of champagne into a jacuzzi or eating cereal over their iMac screens, they spend time placing their Rolex watches at the bottom of the toilet for a photo op, as you can see on their feed. Most of the photos feature cars, planes, bottles and watches with similar comments. While these photos may be insulting to people who have to work hard to afford such luxuries, it is clear that those posting them are looking for passionate reactions, as the definition of internet trolling suggests.

While controversial accounts like this will always be a part of the internet landscape as long as there is an element of anonymity involved, the notion of gaining popularity by mocking inherited wealth with frivolous photographs is certainly telling of the times. Technically speaking, posing next to a fancy car or pouring champagne on a luxury watch doesn't mean you're wealthy. It just means you're a special kind of person. This personality type has gone by many names over the years but most of those names are too vulgar to publish here so, for now, we can just call them Rich Kids of London.

Frederik the Great (photo: cphs.coth.com)

Founded by Mark Bellisimo, CEO of International Equestrian Group, the Rolex Central Park Horse Show was launched in 2014 to present the best jumpers and dressage riders in the world. With five days of multi-discilpine equestrian sport and performances, the outdoor event runs through Sunday, September 25th. One of the most anticipated equestrian events of the year taking place in Wollman Rink, it also features free events for families, kids and the general public including pony rides, demonstrations and presentations.
For more information on the Rolex Central Park Horse Show, visit their official website at www.centralparkhorseshow.com. To watch Frederik the Great in action, visit his YouTube channel. I have embedded a video below with captivating shots of the Fresian stallion.

There's something about the Explorer II model (Reference # 216570) that oozes masculinity. It has a 42mm case, on the larger side for Rolex, but it is more than size that makes model a favorite of manly men around the world. There is a lack of pretension in its bezel and dial that seems to appeal to those looking for a simple and straightforward watch. The dial is legible and luminous and the stainless steel case looks like it can handle a beating. If you are looking for an unassuming Rolex (as unassuming as a Rolex can be, anyway) this is the model for you. It is also priced very well given its size, making it attractive to those who want a reliable watch at a reasonable price.

Rolex GMT-Master II BLNR (photo: Rolex)

The BLNR configuration of the GMT-Master II (Reference # 116710BLNR) is one of Rolex's most popular models, coming in behind the Daytona and Submariner. While fashionable women are often photographed wearing Daytonas and Submariners, you rarely see them wearing a BLNR. Known as the 'Batman' by enthusiasts, the BLNR seems to hold a special place in the heart of men while going largely unnoticed by women. The use of blue and black on the bezel, colors generally used to market to men, may have something to do with it. However, even the BLRO configuration, with a red and blue bezel, looks masculine to me. I can't pinpoint what makes this so, but I would definitely consider the BLNR one of the most masculine Rolex models.

Rolex Deepsea (photo: Rolex/Manu Schwendener)

While many women have been photographed wearing a Rolex Deepsea (Reference # 116660), I still consider it one of the most masculine watches in the their professional collection. The case thickness makes it look bulky even on larger wrists, making it the perfect model for those who associate size with masculinity. The absence of the Cyclops magnifying lens adds an element that appeals to a lot of guys. There is also something about its depth rating that piques the interest of those who spent their youth dreaming of exploring the deep. Even though there are far more Deepsea watches in the world than deep sea divers, the ingenuity that went into creating this dive watch fills the wearer with a sense of pride and wonder that is unmatched.

There is more to masculinity than the characteristics usually attributed to men, but what appeals to most men in terms of watches is easy to see. Rolex may not release their sales and production figures, but you can look at the gray market and visit online forums to get an idea. For more information on these and other models, check out my Rolex Models page here.

Every Rolex Tells a Story: Tiger Woods (photo: Rolex)

"When I’m not playing golf, I want to be in the ocean. I grew up in Southern California, in the Pacific, surfing, and I dive all the time. Water has always been a part of my life... For all of this, I need a watch that is very reliable, that’s why for me the Rolex Deepsea is a natural fit. I love the way it feels. It’s heavy, it’s sturdy, it’s very manly," says Woods about his choice of Rolex. He describes his experience underwater as a break from the connectivity of modern life, something that makes sense given the fact that he has been under a microscope for years as a household name and top athlete.
Woods plans to stage a comeback to competitive gold with the first event of the PGA Tour's 2016-2017 season, the Safeway Open on October 13th. The golfer has been recovering from surgeries since participating in the at the 2015 Wyndham Championship last year. Though nothing is set in stone, this fall will see him return to competing in the biggest golf tournaments in the world. On his time away from the golf course, he spent time with his children, designing golf courses and, of course, in the sea.

2016 Yellow Gold Rolex Daytona (photo: Rolex/Caleb George)

Two Tone Rolex Yacht-Master II Model (photo: Rolex/Kyle Myburgh)

First and foremost, while Rolex Authorized Dealers are prohibited from advertising discounts on their timepieces, they are not legally bound to any price set forth by the watchmaker. Now, if you are wondering if Rolex dealers offer discounts, I think it's safe to assume that you are either a first time buyer or new to watch collecting to some extent. I point this out because your relationship with your dealer is a contributing factor to what sort of discount you can expect to receive from them. If you are a valued customer, you can and should ask for a better price than the first one the sales rep throws out. This applies to all but the current 'it' watches, like the ceramic stainless steel Daytona, that are hard for them to keep in stock and fetch a premium. However, if it is your first time walking into the dealer, you have to rely on your charm and negotiation skills to work down the price.

The model you choose usually dictates how much of a discount you can expect from any dealer, even one that you frequent. Generally speaking, Rolex's stainless steel sports models are the hardest to get at a discounted price simply because they are always in demand as there is a larger market for timepieces priced under $10,000 US. With precious metal configurations, you have a better chance of receiving a discount as they are priced higher and usually not as in demand as their stainless steel counterparts. However, this also depends on the dealer. If you walk into an AD in New York City while on vacation and expect them to offer you a discount, you may be disappointed.

To put yourself in the best negotiating position when purchasing a Rolex, you should think of it no differently than walking into a auto dealership and working down the price of a car. Go in after doing research on pricing, both suggested retail price and resale value. This will let you know how much room you have to negotiate and where to set your initial offer. Do not present your offer as an ultimatum, but as a budget that you would like to adhere to for this purchase. The idea is to create a long-term relationship that will allow you to continue to receive discounts in the future. In my experience, candor and politeness go a long way with salespeople, especially when you are willing to work with them to get a good price on your item without taking away too much of their commission.

The best way to ensure that you get the best prices and service from your dealer is to nurture the relationship over time. If they sell jewelry or other items that you may be interested, give them your business so that when it comes time for you to negotiate the price of your grail watch, you have a leg to stand on. Many dealers have private events and will even bump you up on a list for a hard to find watch if you are a VIP. However, if you are looking for a deeply discounted Rolex watch, you may want to check out the gray market and leave the dealers for those who want to sip beverages and attend events with the sales reps, owners and other valued customers.

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Conductor Gustavo Dudamel (photo: Rolex/Monika Rittershaus)

A Rolex Arts Testimonee since 2008, Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel began his career young, making his conducting debut at age 12. He has remained busy since then, serving as musical director for several orchestras before turning thirty years old. Most recently he conducted the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra at the 2016 Salzburg Festival in collaboration with Testimonee Cecilia Bartoli on a new production of the broadway musical West Side Story.

In addition to serving as the musical director for the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra, he has fulfilled the same role for the El Sistema project of Venezuela, a program that brings classical music to the country's youth. He has also directed the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra in Sweden and the Los Angeles Philharmonic in the US. He has also been a favorite at the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. He has an extensive discography that goes back a decade and has won Grammy and Classic Brit awards for his work.

More recently, the young musical talent conducted the opening and ending credits of the latest film from the Star Wars franchise. In the YouTube video embedded below, Dudamel conducts the Star Wars theme for the film's famed composter John Williams. For more information on Gustavo Dudamel's schedule, bio and recordings, visit his official website at gustavodudamel.com.

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2016 Stainless Steel Submariner Date (Reference # 116610LV) (photo: Rolex/James Higginson)

In stainless steel, the Submariner Date comes with either a green dial and bezel combination (Reference # 116610LV) or a black dial with black bezel (Reference # 116610LN). The green configuration, known as the 'Hulk' by some, is shown in the photo above. The combination of stainless steel with green seems odd at first glance, but this version is very popular amongst enthusiasts. The dial has a sunray finish that looks particularly resplendent in the sun. The 904L steel of the case and Oyster bracelet have a satin finish and the Oysterlock clasp features the Glidelock extension system that adds 20mm to the bracelet in increments of 2mm.

In terms of precious metal configurations, Rolex offers the Submariner Date in either white or yellow gold or a combination of yellow gold and stainless steel, referred to as Rolesor. The photo below shows the white gold version with a blue dial and bezel combination (Reference # 116619LB) on the left, the yellow gold/black dial and bezel combo (Reference # 116618LN) in the middle and the two tone stainless/yellow gold Rolesor with blue dial/bezel combination (Reference # 116613LB) on the right. Aside from those shown in the photo, the watchmaker also offers a yellow gold Sub Date with a blue dial and bezel combo (Reference # 116618LN) and the two tone Rolesor with a black dial and bezel combination (Reference # 116613LN).

2016 Gold Rolex Submariner Date Configurations (photo: Rolex/Seref Yucar)

Equipped with a 3135 self-winding mechanical movement manufactured in-house, the Submariner Date features a depth rating of 300 meters and a power reserve of 48 hours. The precious metal configurations feature polished center links on the bracelet. Its 40mm case is sealed with a screw down Triplock winding crown, ensuring a watertight seal. Its hands and hour markers contain Cromalight appliqués that make it highly legible underwater or in darker environments.

The stainless steel Submariner Date configurations dominate the market, but the yellow gold and Rolesor versions compliment the nautical blue dial and bezel spectacularly. The white gold version is known as the 'Smurf' by some and is also a favorite amongst those who don't like yellow gold watches. Anyone who is looking for a solid and simple dive watch with a classic aesthetic should look no further than the Sub. The watchmaker offers a Submariner without a date function for those who like a cleaner dial display. And if the Cyclops magnifying lens is a deal-breaker for you, check out the Sea-Dweller 4000, a 40mm dive watch made by Rolex that has a date function without the magnification lens.

After decades on the market with very few changes to its aesthetic and functionality, the Submariner Date has proven to be a reliable dive watch. Its consistency has also helped keep its resale value high, something that is important to those who tend to flip watches in their collections. For more information on the archetype of the diver's watch, visit the watchmaker's official website at rolex.com.

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Titan Black Rolex Explorer Oro (photo: titanblack.co.uk)

Horology geeks tend to turn their noses up at modified watches, but companies like Titan Black continue to find success with those willing to spend their money on timepieces that are truly one of a kind. The watches in their Titan Black Collection, like the Rolex Explorer Oro shown above, are all sold in limited quantities. They are also the only luxury watch customization company to offer modifications on any watch, not just watches from their collection. They also offer concierge services to watch collectors, helping their clients source rare and hard to find vintage pieces

The Explorer (Reference # 214270) is one of the simplest models in Rolex's professional line. The legibility and symmetry of its dial make it easy to tell time on it. The large arabic numbers at 3, 6 and 9 o'clock are unmistakable and its otherwise clean design makes it an excellent candidate for a modification. The Oro customization from Titan Black moves the watch away from the basic stainless steel and black configuration most commonly seen on Rolex sports models. With gold on the hands, hour markers, logo and model name and their DLC coating on the case, bezel and bracelet, this watch takes on a life of its own. However, the combination of black and gold isn't at all jarring or flashy, as one may expect when imagining a modified watch.

Most of the watches in their range are blacked out as one would expect, with some exceptions. The Lathbridge watches from their collaboration with designer Patrick Cox, like the Daytona shown in the photo below from the Titan Black Instagram feed, feature a cognac colored coating. The color is a bit more earthy and warm than yellow gold, but not as pink as rose gold. The polish is subtle and allows the timepiece to avoid being considered flashy or gaudy. In addition to working with Patrick Cox, the company has also created special edition Cartier, Richard Mille and Audemars Piguet timepieces.

Customization may be considered a dirty word in the world of Rolex, but Titan Black's work offers an adventurous take on classic timepieces that is worth a look. Their pieces may not fit into everyone's collections, but they are designed to make the person wearing it feel unique and distinguished. If you are interested in seeing what a watch would look like with one of their modifications, check out the Design Your Own page on their official website, titanblack.co.uk.

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@patrickcox_lathbridge collaboration #Daytona Chocolate DLC 1/20 #BespokeWatchSpecialists InStore #London #bulldogbusiness 🇬🇧

A photo posted by TITAN BLACK (@titanblackout) on Mar 5, 2016 at 2:55am PST

After forty years, the gold Rolex is still on his wrist, as you can see in the video embedded below. The athlete credits his health and life accomplishments, which include being named a UN Messenger of Peace and carrying the Olympic Torch for India, to his involvement in sports. He sees his Day-Date as a symbol of how perseverance and dedication can lead to excellence and he wears it proudly. For information on Vijay Amritraj's story and a closer look at his vintage Day-Date, visit rolex.com.

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A student of music since her childhood in Bulgaria, Yoncheva received degrees in piano and voice in her home country, studying under Nelly Koitcheva. She later obtained a mater's in voice at the Conservatory of Geneva under the tutelage of Danielle Borst. After receiving her formal training, the opera singer applied her vocal talent to singing competitions. Most notably, she won top prize and the special CultureArte prize at Operalia in 2010. The video embedded below shows the singer performing "E strano...Sempre Libera..." from 'La Traviata' in a concert in 2012.

Rolex Lady Datejust (photo: Rolex)

Rolex Daytona 116500LN (photo: Rolex/Stephan Cooper)

In my Rolex Shopping Guide, I usually break down Rolex watches based on pricing, as most people need to budget and plan ahead of making a luxury watch purchase. I find that it's best to avoid the pitfall of falling in love with a precious metal configuration when you only have the budget for a stainless steel sports model. And even if you have all the money in the world, it still makes sense to compare models of equal value when evaluating a purchase. However, for most people being able to come up with the money isn't reason enough to pull the trigger on a Rolex.

When it comes to luxury watches, there are many great companies that compete for the attention of watch collectors and enthusiasts. Most offer great wristwatches with competitive pricing, but not every luxury watch is created equal. When it comes to retaining their value, Rolex watches are hard to beat. That's not to say they are an investment - unless you are knowledgeable and connected in the watch world, the chances that you will find a watch that's going to earn you a return above the price you paid for it are slim. Many fail to understand the difference between an item increasing in value and retaining its value when discussing watches. That's not to say they aren't a valuable asset, though.

Aside from value retention, there are other reasons to consider a Rolex purchase. Their timepieces are well made and built to last a lifetime, even more with proper care. This makes them wonderful heirlooms for your children. The company's continued focus on excellence also makes their watches symbols of success and achievement, making a Rolex purchase a great way to mark an accomplishment. The style factor should not be overlooked, either, as a luxury wristwatch elevates one's aesthetic effortlessly.

Everyone has their own individual reasons for buying a Rolex, but do you need a reason at all? As much as I like to carefully plan all of my purchases, I have to say that the best reason to buy a Rolex is no reason at all. There is a pleasure in purchasing a beautiful watch that supersedes any logical reasoning attached to the transaction. Luxury purchases will always seem illogical to some, so my recommendation is to spend less time trying to rationalize your luxury watch purchase and more time enjoying the experience of wearing the watch on your wrist.

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Rolex Arts Testimonee Yo-Yo Ma (photo: Rolex/Marco Grob)

Ma became a Rolex Arts Testimonee in 1998, the same year that he began Silkroad, a non-profit organization with the goal of facilitating the intersection of the arts, business and education by developing  new music, education programs, cultural partnerships and other contributions to the world through music. Rolex is exclusive partner of Silkroad and the organization works with Harvard University to assist in music education training for arts educators.

The Silkroad Ensemble, formed by Yo-Yo Ma in 2000, is a critically acclaimed ensemble of musicians from all over the world. The group has recorded six albums together, creative innovative sounds that cross cultural boundaries and bridge ancient rhythms with modern instrumentation. Their latest recording, Sing Me Home, was released earlier this year as the companion album for The Music of Strangers, a documentary film directed by Oscar winner Morgan Neville. The film puts together performance footage, interviews and archival films to tell the story of the ensemble. Following the performers around the world, it provides a glimpse at the personal journeys of the ensemble's musicians. I have embedded the trailer for the documentary below.

In the photo above, Ma is wearing a classic yellow gold Rolex Day-Date, a perfect match for the accomplished musical artist and philanthropist. The cellist has performed for 8 US Presidents, giving the President't Watch a new interpretation. For more information on the Rolex Day-Date, check out my post on the singular model here. Visit Yo-Yo Ma's official website for a schedule of performances, multimedia and music. Check out silkroadproject.org for more information on the organization.

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