2016 Everose Rolesor Rolex Yacht-Master 40

.Rolex Shopping Guide.
Rolex's Yacht-Master 40 model (Reference # 116621), shown in the photo below in Everose Rolesor (a combination of rose gold and stainless steel), combines characteristics of two of their popular models, the Submariner and Yacht-Master II, to create a sophisticated nautical watch that can go from the open seas to an elegant oceanfront event. With a chocolate dial that compliments its 18 ct rose gold bezel, the aesthetic of the YM stands out amongst Rolex's professional watches as a chic alternative that incorporates current trends in a subtle yet beautiful way.
2016 Everose Rolesor Rolex Yacht-Master 40 (photo: Rolex)
Like the Submariner Date and Sea-Dweller 4000 models, it is fitted with a 3135 self-winding mechanical movement manufactured in-house by the watchmaker. It features the same functionality and case size as the dive watches, but instead of a Cerachrom bezel it features a rose gold bezel with raised, polished numerals and gradations against the sand-blasted background. The Oyster case is made from Rolex's 904L stainless steel alloy and waterproof up to 100 meters, thanks in part to its Triplock winding crown. This two-tone configuration features brushed steel links with polished rose gold center links.

What differentiates this nautical wristwatch model from the others that share its movement and functionality is the sophistication of its bezel and dial combinations. In addition to Everose Rolesor, the 2016 Yacht-Master 40 is available in a combination of steel and platinum with either a dark rhodium dial or a blue dial for those who prefer cool tones. This elevates the model beyond a simple tool watch, with the precious metals taking it to another level as compared to a stainless steel Sub, for example. It is also smaller than the Yacht-Master II, making it more accessible to people with smaller wrist sizes.

The suggested retail price for the Everose Rolesor Yacht-Master 40 is 13,400 Swiss francs, or approximately $13,500 US. This puts it roughly $3,000 to $5,000 above the stainless steel Sea-Dweller 4000 and Submariner Date models, respectively. Considering that it features the same functionality, the decision to purchase the Yacht-Master comes down to desire for gold or platinum on the bezel and center links. For more information on this and other Rolex Models, click here or visit rolex.com.

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Check Out Kevin Durant Sporting a Ceramic Daytona

.Celebrities.
After a controversial decision to leave the Oklahoma City Thunder for the Golden State Warriors in the summer of 2016, Kevin Durant has faced an onslaught of criticism that is new to the NBA All-Star. In Issue 1273 of Rolling Stone Magazine, the basketball phenom opens up about his decision to follow his own dreams and leave behind a city and a team that he was loyal to for almost a decade. On the cover of the magazine, shown below, Durant is shot wearing the highly coveted Rolex Daytona 116500LN with the ceramic bezel.  

Kevin Durant on Rolling Stone Magazine Cover Wearing a  Rolex Daytona 116500LN
Durant was born in Washington DC and grew up in a part of town where he worried for his physical safety on a daily basis. He had two coaches that helped him develop the work ethic that eventually got him drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 2007 as the second overall pick. The team moved from Seattle to Oklahoma City and became the Thunder, the team he would dedicate the next eight years of his career to. In the Rolling Stone interview, Durant opens up about his disappointment in the team's management decisions and the difficulty he experienced making the call to tell them that he would be playing for the Warriors in 2016.

Known as one of the kindest NBA players, it is difficult to imagine him receiving a backlash after making the decision, like many before him, to go for a championship on a team with more than one or two MVPs. However, the player is channeling the criticisms into his work ethic, using the words to motivate him to make the most of his practices. Others may crumble under the pressure, but Durant's upbringing makes the challenges he faces in the NBA pale in comparison.

Even though Durant's jersey is a top seller, the basketball star isn't extremely ostentatious with his earnings. His choice in the ceramic stainless steel Daytona reveals a casual elegance in his style, opting for a hip yet modest timepiece compared to the diamond-paved, precious metal watches that many other professional athletes wear on their wrists. The NBA season is just getting started, so time will tell if Durant's decision to join Steph Curry and the Warriors will give them what they need to repeat their 2015 NBA Championship win. For more information on the Ceramic Daytona, check out my posts on the model by clicking here.

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Which Rolex Watch is the Best for Frequent Flyers?

.Rolex Shopping Guide.
If your career or lifestyle makes you a regular at international airports across the world, you may be interested in a watch that can help you keep track of what timezone you're in and what time it is back home. While smartphones have facilitated timekeeping for the modern traveler, there are instances when you can't access your smartphone - especially if you had the misfortune of buying a Galaxy Note 7. But regardless of your smartphone status, a watch with a GMT complication can still come in handy. After all, glancing at your watch is far more discrete than pulling out your mobile device at the dinner table in front of potential clients. I have listed my choices for the best Rolex for frequent flyers below, compared based on pricing, aesthetic and utility. 

Rolex GMT-Master II BLNR (photo: Rolex/Kychan)
The most logical model to make it on this list would be the GMT-Master II BLNR, or Batman as it is known by Rolex enthusiasts. It has the most straightforward GMT complication, combining a bi-directional rotatable 24-hour bezel with a GMT hand to allow the wearer to easily jump from timezone to timezone by rotating the bezel. The 2016 configuration shown above (Reference # 116710BLNR) for 8,500 Swiss Francs or $8,915 US, however, availability can be an issue with this model, as Authorized Dealers usually don't have them in stock due to the model's popularity.

White Gold Rolex Sky-Dweller (photo: Rolex/Ashim D'Silva)
For those who prefer a dressier precious metal configuration, the Sky-Dweller model would be a good fit. Shown in the photo above in white gold (Reference # 326939), it features an annual calendar function that displays the month in apertures above the roman numeral hour markers. Instead of a 24-hour bezel, it features a 24-hour sub-dial that is adjustable using the Ring Command bezel. At approximately $48,850 US, this timepiece is ideal for someone who wants a watch with a useful complication with an elegant aesthetic. The fluted bezel and materials used on the Sky-Dweller give it a sophisticated look that is only equalled by the usefulness of its complications.

Polar Rolex Explorer II (photo: Rolex/Brenda Mendoça)
With a retail price of approximately $8,076 US, the stainless steel Explorer II model is the most affordable of Rolex's models with a 24-hour hand. It doesn't come with the bells and whistles that the GMT-Master II and Sky-Dweller come with, but the Explorer II (Reference # 216570) offers a rough and tumble alternative that can truly go with you anywhere. It features a 24-hour hand and 24-hour display on the brushed steel bezel, allowing you to keep track of the time in two different timezones. While it is not as prestigious as the Sky-Dweller or the BLNR, you don't have to worry about the Explorer II when you travel as much as you would worry about the other models. It is less flashy and can weather the dings and scratches that may come from outdoor activities.

I would argue that a GMT function is one of the most useful complications for the average person. After all, we can't all be deep sea divers or race car drivers. That may be why Rolex offers so many models with a 24-hour hand. Each of the models above have their own legacy and legions of fans around the world, making any of them a wonderful choice. The choice ultimately comes down to what kind of travel you do and how much you would like to spend. Adventurers will likely choose an Explorer II while corporate executives may prefer the Sky-Dweller or GMT-Master II. For more information on these watches, visit rolex.com or check out the Rolex Models page on this site.

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Rolex Case Size Comparison: Deepsea vs Sky-Dweller

.Model Comparisons.
Two of the larger sized Rolex models, the cases of the Deepsea (Reference # 116660) and Sky-Dweller (Reference # 326139) measure 44 millimeters and 42 millimeters, respectively. With a thickness of approximately 17.7 millimeters, the Deepsea towers over the 14 millimeter thick Sky-Dweller. I have put together a few photos of the two cases to show their relative size compared to each other and other popular Rolex models, like the Cosmograph Daytona (Reference # 116509) and Submariner Date (Reference # 116610LN), both featuring 40 millimeter cases.

White Gold Rolex Sky-Dweller Case (left) and Rolex Deepsea Case (right)
The photo above shows the case of the Sky-Dweller next to the Deepsea's case. The Deepsea looks significantly larger even though the difference between the two in terms of thickness and diameter is only a few millimeters. However, when dealing with wristwatch sizes, a few millimeters can make the difference between a watch that looks great on your wrist and a watch that looks like it's weighing your wrist down.

White Gold Rolex Sky-Dweller Case (top) and Rolex Deepsea Case (bottom)
In this photo, with one on top of the other, you can clearly see the difference in thickness between the two models. You can also notice the slight difference in color between the Sky-Dweller case, made from 18 carat white gold, and the Deepsea case, made from 904L stainless steel. The bezel and crystal of the Deepsea certainly add thickness to the robust case. In the photo it even looks like the Sky-Dweller is floating above the Deepsea due to the protruding domed crystal.

White Gold Rolex Sky-Dweller (left) and White Gold Daytona (right)
The photo above places the Sky-Dweller's case next to the 40 millimeter case of the white gold Cosmograph Daytona model. The Daytona represents the standard size of the 2016 collection of Rolex professional watches. Just over 12 millimeters thick, it sits lower than the Sky-Dweller on the wrist, with about two millimeters between them.

Rolex Deepsea (top) and Stainless Steel Submariner Date (bottom)
In this final photo, I placed the Deepsea atop the Submariner Date, another watch that measures 40 millimeters and just over 12 millimeters in thickness. The bezel of the Sub makes it a hair thicker than the Daytona, yet it is still dwarfed by the Deepsea case.

It is easy to assume that the Rolex models with larger cases are relatively the same size. However, when you factor in the thickness and the extra millimeters in diameter, there is a big difference between the Deepsea case and that of the Sky-Dweller. The Sky-Dweller is more comparable to the Daytona in terms of size, leaving the Deepsea in a class of its own. The bezels on these models also make a difference in terms of size, with the rotatable ceramic bezels of the dive watches adding to the thickness of the case. Ultimately, it is always a good idea to try on a watch before committing to a purchase, but if your local Authorized Dealer doesn't have one in stock, I hope these photos help you figure out the relative size of each of these models.

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2016 Rolex Daytona 116500LN White Dial vs Black Dial

.Rolex Shopping Guide.
At Baselworld 2016 Rolex introduced the first stainless steel Cosmograph Daytona configuration to feature a Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert. The 116500LN became in instant sensation, with waiting lists around the world forming only minutes after the watchmaker revealed the configuration. It is available with either a white dial, as shown to the left in the photo below, or a black dial, as shown to the right. The white dial version has become the most popular, with the black dial version offering a more subdued, monochromatic take for those interested in having the current 'it' watch without being flashy about it. 

2016 Rolex Daytona 116500LN with White Dial (left) and Black Dial (right) (photo: Rolex/Ihtesham Ismail)
The combination of Rolex's 904L stainless steel and Cerachrom ceramic is perfect for a watch worn on a daily basis. These materials are highly resistant to scratching and fading, maintaining their appearance even in the most extreme environments. Although this particular model is currently fetching a premium due to consumer demand, it is still a sporty, casual watch originally created for the race track. The white dial version looks sportier than the black dial, which can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on where you plan on wearing it. It goes great with blue jeans and Bermuda shorts, but it would take a very stylish person to pull it off with a suit at a black tie affair.

With the dial in black and sub-dials outlined in silver, the Daytona blends in more with the rest of Rolex's professional models. Most of the stainless steel models I see on the street or in wrist shots online feature a black dial. The lack of contrast technically makes the dial less legible than the white, but the balance creates a more sophisticated aesthetic. This version is ideal for someone looking for an understated chronograph that still features the latest technological advances of the watchmaker. The fact that it doesn't stand out so much makes it a better fit for a formal event than the white dial version, though opinions on whether a sports watch is appropriate for formal attire vary.

Reminiscent of the checkered flag, the white dial Daytona 116500LN configuration is perfect for fans of racing and the watch's legacy dating back to the 1960s. The black dial version is ideal for those Rolex collectors and enthusiasts looking for a solid everyday sports watch that doesn't call too much attention to their wrists. Regardless of which you choose, the 116500LN is sure to please. For more information on either of these configurations, visit rolex.com.

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Limited Edition Rolex Daytona Designed by Lenny Kravitz

.Celebrities.
A renaissance man with an eye for mid-century modern design, Lenny Kravitz has spent the past decade building his design resume with Kravitz Design, Inc. His main focus has been on interiors and furniture, but the musician recently collaborated with Les Artesans de Genève on a modified Rolex Daytona that exudes rock and roll appeal. They took a 116523 reference Daytona and added design elements made from leather and gold while still maintaining the iconic look of the Cosmograph Daytona model. 

Lenny Kravitz Wearing Kravitz Design LK 01 Rolex Daytona (photo: Mathieu Bitton)
After two years of development, the Kravitz Design LK 01 is available in limited quantities for 41,380 Swiss francs and comes in a black case with a bluetooth speaker built in. The modifications include a Barenia calf leather strap, a handmade golden bakelite bezel that preserves the tachymetric scale of the original and a dial modified by hand. 22 carat gold features were added, including a gold rotor added to the movement, a staple of Les Artisans de Genève, that can be seen through the clear case back, another modification. The case is treated with a black diamond-like carbon coating, allowing the case to blend in with the dial and straps for a monochromatic look that makes the red and gold details pop.

Kravitz Design LK 01 Modified Rolex Daytona (photo: lesartisansdegeneve.com)
Kravitz takes natural glam to a new level with his foray into wristwatch design. Similar to his interior design concepts, this timepiece brings a vintage seventies style to the modern blacked out wristwatch trend for a truly unique watch. As a watch collector, Kravitz's eye is well trained and he is clearly a proponent of modifications, something many watch enthusiasts rail against. A combination of creativity and hand craftsmanship brings the LK 01 to a higher echelon than other modified timepieces, transcending the trend and cementing it to the legacy of the talented rock star and designer. For more information about this timepiece, visit the official website of Les Artesans de Genève.

When is a Rolex Watch the Right Birthday Gift?

.FAQ.
I came across an article on gq.com in which Jessi Klein, head writer for Inside Amy Schumer, shares a story about buying her husband a Rolex watch for his forty-fifth birthday. She refers to Rolexes as 'engagement rings for dudes' based on the fact that men feel the same way about the watches that women feel about diamond rings. It's a fair comparison and I would agree that they make wonderful birthday gifts, there are some caveats when it comes to buying someone a Rolex.

When is a Rolex Watch the Right Birthday Gift? (photo: Ben White)
The first thing to take into consideration is budget. Rolex prices range from less than $10,000 to upwards of $100,000 US, so you must have your finances in order before making the decision to give one as a gift. Most of their stainless steel professional models, like the Submariner, are on the more affordable side while precious metal and diamond models will run you significantly more. There are also models that are harder to find than others, like the 2016 Ceramic Daytona. Dealers may charge a premium for them, so that should also be taken into consideration.

Pricing and availability are important factors of a Rolex purchase, but choosing the right model can make the difference between a watch that will last a lifetime and one that will go back to the dealer for an exchange. This is perhaps the most difficult part about buying a watch as a gift for someone. While from a distance many models look similar, each one has its own legacy and caters to different personalities. For example, even though they have a similar look, the GMT-Master II and Submariner have different functionalities that cater to different demographics. Using Jessi Klein's comparison to an engagement ring, it's similar to the difference between a marquis cut diamond and a pear cut diamond.

The main difference between an engagement ring and a Rolex is that there is a specific occasion for giving someone an engagement ring, whereas you can give someone a watch to mark many different occasions. Whether given to honor an advancement in career, a birthday or a relationship milestone, a luxury timepiece is meant to stay with the owner for a lifetime and even longer, as many choose to pass their watches down to future generations. Anyone would be lucky to receive a Rolex as a birthday gift, but I would say that the best time to give one as a gift is when you are certain that they will be getting a watch that they will never want to take off.

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White Gold Rolex Sky-Dweller vs Stainless Steel Yacht-Master II

.Model Comparisons.
Both on the larger side as far as Rolex models go, the white gold Sky-Dweller on black leather strap (Reference # 326139) and the stainless steel Yacht-Master II (Reference # 116680) offer unique complications and bold aesthetics that set them apart from other models. Introduced in the past decade, both are relatively new to the market compared to some of the watchmaker's classic models. However, they still maintain the classical design sensibilities that Rolex is known for with case sizes and complications that represent twenty-first century ingenuity. 

White Gold Rolex Sky-Dweller Case (left) and Stainless Steel Yacht-Master II Case (right)
The Sky-Dweller was created to allow the wearer to keep track of time around the globe with its patented interface: the Ring Command bezel. This feature makes it easy to set the time functions of the watch while maintaining the fluting that is characteristic of Rolex dress watches. It also features a Saros annual calendar and 24-hour display with dual time zones, giving the wearer a stylish but functional timepiece that can go with them anywhere. Like most of their date models, it also features a date aperture at 3 o'clock with a Cyclops magnifying lens affixed to the crystal above it. It is equipped with a 9001 self-winding mechanical movement with a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. 

Stainless Steel Yacht-Master II Case atop White Gold Rolex Sky-Dweller Case
The Yacht-Master II features a complication that caters to skippers during yacht races: a professional regatta chronograph. Like the Sky-Dweller, its bezel interacts with the movement inside to operate the timer. It can be programmed up to 10 minutes with a fly-back reset function that allows one to synchronize the timer with the official countdown of the yacht race. The bezel features a blue Cerachrom insert that is virtually scratch-proof and will not fade over time. In the photo above, you can see that the YM2's 44 millimeter case is slightly larger than the Sky-Dweller's 42 millimeter case.  However, the Sky-Dweller's case is slightly thicker than that of the Yacht-Master II. The YM2 is equipped with a 4161 self-winding mechanical movement with a power reserve of 72 hours.

78210 Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet of the Yacht-Master II
The stainless steel Oyster bracelet (Reference # 78210) shown in the photo above belongs to the Yacht-Master II. All Yacht-Master II configurations feature an Oyster bracelet, whereas the Sky-Dweller is available with either a leather strap, like the black leather strap shown in the photo below, or an Oyster bracelet in 18 carat gold. The Sky-Dweller model is only available in precious metal configurations, with the YM2 available in either stainless steel, Everose Rolesor (combination of rose gold and stainless steel), yellow or white gold. The suggested retail price for the white gold Sky-Dweller is approximately $39,550 US. The stainless steel Yacht-Master II retails for approximately $18,750 US, with the white gold configuration priced closer to the Sky-Dweller at $48,150 US.

White Gold Rolex Sky-Dweller on Black Leather Strap
These models represent a new era for Rolex, with their large sizes and Ring Command bezels interacting with the movements inside their cases. The Sky-Dweller caters to those who take to the skies while the Yacht-Master II is ideal for those with a taste for the open seas. For more information on either of these wristwatch models, visit rolex.com or check out the Rolex Models section of this blog for more model comparisons, Rolex model information and technical information.

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2016 Rolex Milgauss 116400GV

.Rolex Models.
Worn by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva due to its resistance to strong magnetic fields, Rolex's Milgauss model was originally designed for engineers and technicians that are exposed to magnetism at their job sites. Its name is a combination of mille, the French word for thousand, and gauss, a unit that measures magnetism. The 2016 version of this model features many technological advances that help to protect its 3131 movement (manufactured in-house by the watchmaker) from malfunctioning due to exposure to magnetic energy. 

2016 Rolex Milgauss 116400GV (photo: Rolex/Jonathan Pease)
Available with the Z Blue dial shown in the photo above or a white or black dial, this model features a lightning bolt seconds hand that pays homage to the original version introduced in 1956. It comes in stainless steel on an Oyster bracelet with polished center links with an Oysterclasp fitted with a 5 mm Easylink extension. The case measures 40 millimeters in diameter and is sealed with a Twinclock winding crown. It has a depth rating of 100 meters and a power reserve of 48 hours. A distinctive feature of this model is its unique green tinted sapphire crystal.

A magnetic shield made of ferromagnetic alloys protects the movement within the case, with the oscillator and escapement made from paramagnetic materials to protect them from magnetic interference. The escapement wheel is made from a nickel-phosphorus alloy that is produced in-house through a process called UV-LiGA. The oscillator has a blue Parachrom hairspring that is also resistant to magnetism. Between the shield and the component parts, Rolex assures the wearer that the precision of this timepiece will not be affected by work environments in the telecommunications, aerospace and nuclear energy fields.

Most people are not exposed to large amounts of magnetic energy at their job sites, but that shouldn't stop them from looking at this charming wristwatch model. You don't have to be a scientist to sport a Milgauss, just like you don't have to be a professional diver to enjoy the Deepsea. The suggested retail price for the 2016 Rolex Milgauss (Reference # 116400GV) is $8,200 US. For more information on this and other 2016 model configurations, visit rolex.com or visit or local Authorized Dealer.

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Russell Peters Wears a Platinum Rolex Daytona

.Celebrities.
Russell Peters Wears Rolex in Netflix Special (photo: Russell Peters Facebook)
Canadian standup comic Russell Peters is the most financially successful comedian that most Americans haven't heard of. He was the first comedian to be given a standup special on Netflix (Notorious in 2013) and his current special on the streaming service, Almost Famous, pokes fun at his lack of name recognition while selling out shows across the globe. Peters was born in Toronto to Anglo-Indian parents and began his comedy career with the blessing of George Carlin, who told him to get on stage whenever possible. The comedian took the advice to heart and created a comedy empire in the years that followed, headlining at Madison Square Garden and O2 Arena in London to name a couple of his accomplishments in the world of standup.

Peters' comedy focuses on the humor in cultural differences between ethnic groups, as you can see in the clip embedded below from Notorious in which he talks about discussing paint color with a Mexican Home Depot employee. The comedian has yet to be embraced by Hollywood, which he attributes to not being 'in with the in crowd' or being introduced to Hollywood executives by a tastemaker. He is currently filming a television series set to air in Canada, with the possibility of being picked up in the US. For now, he makes his living touring the world with his comedy.

In his latest special, he wears a platinum Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, a symbol of success and status that not every comic can claim. Almost Famous is now streaming on Netflix as Peters tours the US working on new material. For more information on Peters, including tour dates, visit his official website at russellpeters.com. To check out the 2016 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona in all of its configurations, visit rolex.com.

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Top 5 YouTube Videos to Help You Spot a Fake Rolex

.Rolex Shopping Guide.
How to Spot a Fake Rolex (photo: Rolex/Jean-Daniel Meyer)
There are many different ways to tell the difference between an authentic Rolex and a knock off. Some fakes look quite convincing, but when they are taken apart they reveal their true origins. There are as many ways to spot a fake Rolex as there are ways to manufacture one, so I decided to compile a few YouTube videos to illustrate the differences between an authentic Rolex and a counterfeit. Seeing a fake next to the real thing is the best way to train your eye to spot the design flaws and technical inconsistencies that can help save you from being swindled on the gray market. Check out the videos I embedded below to find out what to look for in an authentic Rolex wristwatch.


Pawn Stars is a reality show on History Channel that centers around Pawn Shop owners. In the video above, one of them breaks down how he can tell the difference between a real Rolex watch from a fake. He focuses mainly on waterproof testing, checking for proper configurations and the magnification of the Cyclops lens.


Archie Luxury focuses on the finer points in his video, recommending taking the bracelet off the case to check the serial numbers on the case and bracelet for authenticity. He also comments on the stamping and printing on these watches, pointing out that some fakes have incorrect information stamped on them, like a stainless steel Explorer having an 18k gold stamp in the case - a dead giveaway that is less apparent than other inaccuracies.


The video above shows the movement of a fake Chinese knock off (you can skip to the 5:00 minute mark to get to the movement). I included this one so that you can see the difference between a fake Rolex movement and the real thing. The rotor on the fake only moves in one direction and the rest of the movement lacks the markings and parts that make a Rolex and Rolex.


The Daytona model is one of the watchmaker's most coveted and this video by TraxNYC is very helpful in comparing two counterfeit versions with the real thing. It goes into detail about the markings and design features of this model, something that would be helpful to watch on your phone when you are getting ready to check out a Daytona for purchase.


In this final video, a gentleman compares his authentic Datejust II with a knock off that his friend purchased. He goes into great detail, revealing the issues with the instantaneous date change and the winding crown that give away his friend's fake. It is very difficult to tell the difference just looking at them, so this video would be great for anyone on the market for a preowned DJ2.

There are other videos on YouTube that go into the difference between real and fake watches, but I feel watching these five will give you a good primer on what to look for in an authentic Rolex. The key is to know every single detail about the model you are looking at, from the finer details like stamping and markings to functionality and consistency. I would recommend going to rolex.com and printing out the PDF brochure for the model you are looking at before going to see the watch in person. Their model brochures include reference numbers and details about the dials, bracelets, crown and configurations that will help you know what to look for in an authentic Rolex.

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Rolex Lume Shots: Deepsea, GMT-Master II and Yacht-Master II

.Model Comparisons.
Rolex Deepsea Lume
Lume is an abbreviated term for the luminescent material used to distinguish the watch hands and hour markers from the dial in the dark. For the past few years, Rolex has used their Chromalight luminescence, a blue tinted luminescent material shown in the photo above on the Deepsea model. The reason they chose the color blue is that it is the last color distinguishable in the depths of the ocean. Previously, the watchmaker used a green tinted luminescent material called Super-Luminova. The GMT-Master II in the photo below shows the green lume that was used prior to Chromalight.

Rolex GMT-Master II Lume
Super-Luminova is the brand name for the strontium aluminate–based non-radioactive and nontoxic photoluminescent pigments invented in 1993 by Nemoto & Co., Ltd. of Japan. LumiNova pigments replaced radium-based luminescent paints in the watch industry and for other applications, like scientific instruments and signs. The pigments are activated by sun or artificial light to glow for hours at a time. According to speculation on the forums, it is believed that Rolex still uses paints from Nemoto in their Chromalight luminescence, even though it is branded as a proprietary material of the watchmaker. 

Rolex Yacht-Master II Lume
Regardless of how it is produced, the Chromalight luminescence creates a sharper contrast against the darkness, something that is more evident in models with smaller hour markers, like the Yacht-Master II shown above. Its square hour markers are substantially smaller than those of the Deepsea and GMT, but the clear blue light still allows the wearer to tell the time in the darkness. The amount of lume varies in each Rolex model, with the professional watches offering the most luminescent displays compared to other collections. 

Most wear their wristwatches in well lit spaces, but luminescence is important when the situation calls for it. Whether deep sea diving, exploring caves or camping under the night sky, a luminescent display makes your Rolex a useful tool in any environment. 

Stainless Steel Rolex GMT-Master II vs White Gold Daytona Model Comparison

.Model Comparisons.
Two Rolex fan favorites, the GMT-Master II and Cosmograph Daytona models offer different functionalities but a similar aesthetic when paired with black dials. The stainless steel GMT-Master II with black bezel shown below (Reference # 116710LN) is a classic professional model that finds its origins in the age of aviation while the white gold Cosmograph Daytona (Reference # 116509) represents the spirit of race car drivers that set land speed records on the sands of Daytona Beach, Florida, half a century ago. Whether traveling by land or by sea, either of these models would make a great companion for anyone looking for the reliability and legacy of a Rolex.

Stainless Steel Rolex GMT-Master II (Left) and White Gold Cosmograph Daytona (Right)
While there is a significant price jump from a stainless steel GMT-Master II to a white gold Daytona, seeing them next to one another shows the slight difference in color between the two materials. The white gold Daytona has a slightly warmer tone than the stainless steel GMT, which has a cooler tone closer to a silver in color. The other notable difference between the two is their functionalities. The GMT-Master II allows the wearer to keep the time of two different locations on one watch, while the Daytona allows the wearer to keep time and pace with a chronograph function. 

White Gold Cosmograph Daytona atop the Stainless Steel Rolex GMT-Master II
The photo above shows the Daytona case atop the GMT-Master II case. Both cases measure 40 millimeters in diameter, but the Daytona case has a slimmer profile. They both feature Oyster bracelets with polished center links, Oysterlock clasps and 5 millimeter Easylink extensions. They are both waterproof to a depth of 100 meters thanks to their Oyster cases and Triplock winding crowns. The GMT-Master II has a date function, with an aperture at 3 o'clock and a Cyclops magnifying lens. The Daytona does not feature a date function, with chronograph sub-dials taking up most of the space on its dial. The hours on the Daytona are marked with arabic numerals in 18 karat white gold appliqués while the GMT features geometric Chromalight appliqués. 

Stainless Steel Rolex GMT-Master II (Left) and White Gold Cosmograph Daytona (Right)
The Cosmograph Daytona model is powered by a 4130 self-winding mechanical movement manufactured completely in-house by Rolex. It has a power reserve of 72 hours and a tachymetric scale printed on the smooth white gold bezel to allow the wearer to measure their pace during laps around the race track. With a 48 hour power reserve, the GMT-Master II features a bidirectional 24 hour bezel that allows the wearer to set the 24-hour hand to GMT time and move the bezel back and forth to switch between timezones around the globe.

Both of these professional Rolex models offer useful complications for everyday life with black and stainless steel/white gold configurations that are far more popular these days than traditional yellow gold configurations. The choice between the two will likely come down to pricing, material and functionality. The red details on the display of the Daytona giving it a sexy look while the clean and clear GMT display make it highly legible. Regardless of which you choose, they both represent Rolex's professional collection very well and will look great your wrist. 

Will Rolex Introduce a Bronze Model Configuration in 2017?

.FAQ.
In a recent New York Times Men's Style article, Alex Williams reports on the current trend of using bronze as a material for luxury wristwatches. The Tudor Heritage Black Bay Bronze, shown in the photo below, was one of the timepieces he mentioned in a list that also included Panerai Luminor Submersible 1950 Automatic Bronzo and models by IWC and Zenith. I have come across many positive comments about the Black Bay Bronze on blogs and forums and it makes me wonder if Rolex will release a bronze configuration in 2017 - and if so, on which model?
Tudor Heritage Black Bay Bronze (photo: Tudor)
Only time will tell if the watchmaker chooses to expand their bronze product offerings from their sister brand to Rolex, but if I had to guess which model they would choose to go bronze it would be either the Yacht-Master or the Explorer II. Even though the current trend favors dive watches, I think creating a bronze Submariner would dilute the market for the Black Bay. It would probably make more sense if they choose to make the Sea-Dweller 4000 or Yacht-Master in bronze, but I think the Explorer II would make for a killer bronze watch with a chocolate dial. I came up with the concept design below based on the 2016 Explorer II model (Reference # 216570).

Rolex Explorer II Bronze Configuration Concept Design
We will have to wait till Baselworld 2017 to find out what the next year will hold for new Rolex model configurations. Bronze watches may be a passing trend or become a new staple of luxury wristwatch collections in the years to come. The attention Tudor's official website devotes to the Black Bay Bronze on their homepage makes me think that we may be seeing more bronze watches from them in the future. Hopefully their experience with the material will help Rolex decide if it's worth coming up with a bronze watch of their own. For now, my money's on the Explorer II.

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Which is the Smallest 2016 Rolex Model?

.FAQ.
2016 Rolex Lady-Datejust 26 (photo: Rolex)
It should come as no surprise that the smallest Rolex 2016 model is part of their women's watch collection. The Lady-Datejust 26 is available in several dial and bezel combinations in either stainless steel or Rolesor, a combination of white gold and stainless steel. It comes with either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet, with the option of adding diamonds to the dial and bezel. Dial colors range from silver and blue to pink and black. 

Equipped with a 2235 self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex, the Lady-Datejust 26 is a certified Swiss chronometer, a designation reserved for high-precision watches that have successfully passed Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) testing. To browse all of the 2016 Lady-Datejust 26 configurations, visit rolex.com. 

White Gold Rolex Daytona vs Sky-Dweller Model Comparison

.Model Comparisons.
Rolex's white gold Cosmograph Daytona model on black leather strap (Reference # 116519) gives the sporty chronograph an elegant look while maintaining its legacy as a watch for race car drivers. The Sky-Dweller shown below to the right of the Daytona also features a white gold/black leather configuration (Reference # 326139) with a similar aesthetic but different size and complication. The Daytona is a beloved classic model that has been around for over half a century. The Sky-Dweller is the latest model introduced by the watchmaker, designed to make it easy to keep time while traveling the globe. 
White Gold Rolex Daytona and Sky-Dweller Models Side by Side
The most obvious difference between the two white gold wristwatch models is the size of their cases. The Daytona, on the left in the photo below, features a 40 millimeter case diameter while the Sky-Dweller to the right has a 42 millimeter case. Two millimeters may not sound like much, but the difference in the height of the cases is clearly visible. Another difference that is made clear in this photo is in the design of the bezels. The Daytona has a tachymetric scale printed on its smooth bezel to allow the wearer to time laps around the race track. The Sky-Dweller is equipped with a Ring Command bezel used to choose between the time and date functions.

White Gold Rolex Daytona (Left) and Sky-Dweller (Right)
Since 2000, the Daytona model has been powered by a 4130 self-winding mechanical movement manufactured in-house by Rolex. It has a power reserve of 72 hours and a depth rating of 100 meters. The dial features center hour and minute hands, a small seconds hand a 6 o'clock, 30 minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12 hour counter at 9 o'clock. The hour markers are made from 18 carat white gold with the Arabic numerals filled with Chromalight luminescence. 

Protected by seven patents, the Sky-Dweller model is equipped with a 9001 self-winding mechanical movement also manufactured in-house by the watchmaker. It too features a power reserve of 72 hours and a depth rating of 100 meters. The black dial features center hour, minute and seconds hands, a 24-hour display on an off-center disc and 12 month apertures around the circumference of the dial, with stop-seconds for precise time setting. 

The Arabic numerals of the Sky-Dweller are made from 18 carat white gold, but without the Chromalight luminescence used on the Daytona model. And, as you can see in the photo below, the Daytona (sitting atop the Sky-Dweller) features a Triplock winding crown while the Sky-Dweller uses a Twinlock winding crown. 

White Gold Rolex Daytona atop Sky-Dweller 
Another notable difference between the two is the fact that Rolex doesn't offer a white gold Cosmograph Daytona with a black dial on leather strap in their 2016 collection, so pricing will vary depending on where you find one. The suggested retail price for the 2016 Sky-Dweller in white gold on black leather strap is approximately $39,550 US. 

While there are obvious differences between these two white gold Rolex models, the Daytona and the Sky-Dweller both offer a sporty style that becomes timeless when paired with a black leather strap. Size, availability and complications will ultimately sway consumers one way or another, but both of these configurations offer a robust list of features that are sure to please anyone. For more information of these models, check out the Rolex Models page of this site or visit rolex.com. 

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2016 Everose Gold Rolex Day-Date

.Rolex Models.
To honor the 60th anniversary of the presidents' watch, Rolex released the Day-Date 40 model in Everose gold and white gold with an olive green dial, the watchmaker's signature color. Powered by a Calibre 3255 manufactured in-house by Rolex, this Superlative Chronometer has a power reserve of 70 hours and functions with a precision of -2/+2 seconds per day. Its 40 millimeter case size brings this classic dress watch into the 21st century while preserving the sophistication that has made this model a favorite amongst the most powerful men in the world for over half a century.

2016 Everose Gold Rolex Day-Date 40 (photo: Rolex/Giovanni Corte)

Among the most prestigious of all Rolex models, the Day-Date 40 features a President bracelet made up of three semi-circular links that conceal the Crownclasp. It has a depth rating of 100 meters thanks to its Oyster case, which is sealed with double watertight security by a Twinlock winding crown. The fluted bezel is characteristic of Rolex's dress watches, encircling the crystal with refracted light. The combination of Everose gold with the olive green dial shown above (Reference # 228235) creates a beautiful color balance that is unique and refreshing when compared to more common precious metal configurations.

The Day-Date model is a favorite of celebrities, as you can see on my Celebrities Wearing Rolex Watches page. This versatile model pleases a wide range of tastes due to its classic aesthetic and clean display. While many, like Justin Timberlake and Victoria Beckham, choose to sport the yellow gold configuration (Reference # 228238), the rose gold configuration is a wonderful choice for anyone who wants their timepiece to stand out. The olive green dial will surely be limited, making it possible for this configuration to appreciate over time if availability should become limited.

For more information on this and other Rolex 2016 models, visit the Rolex Models page on this site or visit rolex.com. The Day-Date is also available in Platinum with an ice blue dial or yellow gold.

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