A Look Back at Rolex's Baselworld 2016 Model Releases

.Rolex Models.
As Baselworld 2017 approaches, predictions about model updates have dominated the chatter amongst Rolex enthusiasts. While I have already posted my predictions and desires for this year's releases, I thought it would be a good idea to take a look back at which models were updated at Baselworld 2016. I covered last year's event on this blog, but I went back to their press release to get an idea for how they introduced each update to get a feel for what we might expect to see this year. 
Rolex Daytona, Air-King and Datejust Models from Baselworld 2016 (photo: Rolex)
The image above shows the star of Rolex's Baselworld 2016 stand, the Cosmograph Daytona 116500LN. This model update dominated coverage of the brand for months after the trade show and still demands a waiting list to get your hands on one. Next to it is the Air-King, which was re-introduced in a larger size with a unique logo with a yellow crown and green lettering. The Datejust received an upgrade in terms of size, with a 41 millimeter case this time around fitted with the new 3235 movement.

Everose Gold Rolex Models from Baselworld 2016 (photo: Rolex)
Everose gold was a common theme last year, with the Lady-Datejust 28, Pearlmaster and Yacht-Master getting rose gold configurations. The Lady-Datejust features a 2236 movement that is powered by the watchmaker's patented Syloxi silicon hairspring. The Pearlmaster above offers a blinged out watch for women that surely had their gem-setters busy for some time. The Yacht-Master 40 received an Everose Rolesor configuration with a chocolate dial. The combination of a chocolate dial with rose gold is a common theme in the Rolex Oyster collection.

Rolex Explorer and Cellini Models from Baselworld 2016 (photo: Rolex)
At first look last year, I wasn't sure what the update to the Explorer I was. Over time I discovered that they actually added luminescence to the large characteristic Arabic 3, 6, and 9 and also elongated the minute hand. Rose gold once again is featured, this time on the Cellini model shown above. Based on hindsight, it is likely that Rolex will stick to this method for their Baselworld 2017 model releases. They will likely feature one of their materials, like the Everose gold was features in 2016. All bets are on the Sea-Dweller 4000 receiving a full update for its 45th anniversary and the watchmaker will likely take advantage of the press from the show to introduce small but meaningful updates to existing models, like they did with the Explorer and Datejust 41 last year.

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2016 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air-King

.Rolex Models.
The original Rolex Air-King model reflected the style of the golden age of aviation. The watchmaker reintroduced the model at Baselworld 2016 with a larger (40mm) case, but the same Air-King lettering and green and yellow logo that they placed on the dial of the 1950s model.

Rolex Air-King (photo: Rolex)

This Superlative Chronometer is made of 904l stainless steel and carries a 3131 movement manufactured completely by Rolex. The movement is equipped with a blue Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorber. The clasp on the oyster bracelet features an Easylink rapid extension, which allows one to adjust the size of the bracelet up to 5mm without removing links.

One of the distinguishing features of the Air-King is the minute scale displayed between the arabic hour markers. This clear display makes it very easy to tell the time at a glance. This model also has the Mercedes hour hand that Rolex is known for as well.

The Air-King is a throwback in terms of style, but it is equipped with the latest technology that Rolex has patented over the past decades. This makes it an interesting addition to their model line up, especially for those who find the professional models excessive.

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2016 rolex air-king at baselworld 2016
2016 Air-King Model Display at Baselworld 2016

Rolex at Baselworld 2016

.Lifestyle.
photo of the entrance to baselworld 2016 basel switzerland
Entrance to Baselworld 2016
For watch collectors, horology enthusiasts and jewelry lovers, Baselworld 2016 offers a first look at the curated creations that watchmakers and jewelers will be rolling out over the next year. This year, Rolex presents several new configurations of their most popular models, including the buzzed about 2016 Daytona with the black and white dial (photo below).

Picture of show card for 2016 baselworld in basel switzerland
Show Card Baselworld 2016
The annual event takes place in Basel, Switzerland, and allows attendees to get up close and personal with unique and coveted timepieces before they are available for purchase. It isn't necessary to be on the market for a new luxury timepiece to enjoy Baselworld, however. One could spend hours appreciating the achievements of these world renowned luxury brands.

Rolex at Baselworld 2016
Rolex has received a lot of attention for bringing back the classic white dial that catapulted their Cosmograph Daytona model into the spotlight in the 1960s. Made famous by actor and race car driver Paul Newman, this is one of the company's most talked about models. The 2016 Daytona is also available with a black or blue dial in white gold and there is also a yellow gold version with a green dial. 

2016 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona white dial black bezel paul newman
2016 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona with White Dial at Baselworld 2016
photo of Rolex display at Baselworld 2016 with Cosmograph daytona black dial
2016 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona with black dial  at Baselworld 2016

Baselworld 2016 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona display yellow gold green dial white gold blue dial
2016 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona in White and Yellow Gold at Baselworld 2016
I find the yellow gold Yacht-Master II on the right hand side of the photo below particularly beautiful. The combination of yellow gold with the blue bezel and white dial is timeless and 
complimentary to the grandeur of this wristwatch.

Baselworld 2016 rolex display yacht-master II rose gold white gold yellow gold
Rolex Yacht-Master II Display at Baselworld 2016





The GMT-Master II is displayed in gold with either a black or green dial. This is another instance where Rolex has chosen excellent color combinations to represent their professional wristwatches. The oyster bracelet and black ceramic bezel give the GMT-Master II a sporty (and utilitarian) quality. This yellow gold configuration is sophisticated and can easily transition from days to night in terms of styling.

2016 Baselworld Rolex display GMT Master 2 yellow gold with green dial and black dial
Yellow Gold Rolex GMT-Master II display at Baselworld 2016
Rolex refers to the combination of 904L stainless steel and platinum as 'Rolesium' and this combination is available on the new 2016 Yacht-Master. The display below shows the 37mm version next to the 40mm of the model with a dark rhodium dial. The cool tones of the Rolesium and dark rhodium compliment the turquoise second hand of this icy watch. 

photo of rolex display baselworld 2016rolesium yacht-master dark rhodium dial stainless steal platinum
2016 Rolex Yacht-Master at Baselworld 2016
A 2016 version of Rolex's Explorer model was released with an entirely luminescent display. Perhaps the most simple of the professional models, the Explorer's blue luminescence makes it one of the easiest watches to read in the light and in the dark. Its straightforward design makes it the ideal choice for someone who wants to wear a Rolex but does not want to make a big fuss about it.

photo of Rolex Explorer Display at Baselworld 2016
2016 Rolex Explorer Model at Baselworld 2016
Baselworld 2016 will come to an end on March 24th, but the timepieces and jewelry that were launched at the event will be talked about (and blogged about) for the next year. For more information about Rolex's new models, visit their official website and check out my favorite configurations blog entry.

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Basel SBB Train Station in Basel, Switzerland

2016 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

.Rolex Models.
There has been much fanfare about the 2016 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona model unveiled at Baselworld 2016. The new dial is a throwback to the Paul Newman Daytona made popular in the early seventies after the actor and race car driver received one as a gift from wife Joanne Woodward.
2016 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona (photo: Rolex)
An authentic Paul Newman Daytona goes for more than triple what another Daytona with the same model number would go for. Hodinkee offers an in-depth look at the Paul Newman Daytona and what differentiates it from other Daytona models of that era.

The 2016 Cosmograph Daytona features a white dial with contrasting black sub-dials reminiscent of the Paul Newman. It is equipped with Rolex's 4130 movement and a black monobloc Cerachrom bezel with a tachymetric scale engraved into it.

This stainless steal wristwatch has already become a sensation at Baselworld and on the Internet. The new Daytona combines Rolex's updated and constantly evolving manufacturing standards with a sense of nostalgia that puts this model on everybody's radar.

When creating a logo for this blog, I was inspired to incorporate the dial of the 2016 Daytona in my design. The black and white geometric elements create a wonderful backdrop for the gold blog title. I don't normally feel inclined to produce fan art, but I think it's fitting in this instance considering that this is a blog about Rolex.


Rob's Rolex Chronicle Logo

Rolex Unveils Everose Rolesor Yacht-Master at Baselworld 2016

.Rolex Models.
Rolex has unveiled several new configurations of their Yacht-Master model at Baselworld 2016. Most notably, they have created an Everose Rolesor version. ('Everose Rolesor' refers to the combination of Rolex's Everose 18 karat rose gold and their 904L stainless steel alloy.)

2016 Rolex Everose Rolesor Yacht-Master (photo: Rolex)
This combination of metals is used in a few of their 2016 model configurations. Photographed above with a chocolate dial, the Yacht-Master features a bidirectional rotatable 60 minute graduated bezel with raised numerals. This certified Superlative Chronometer is powered by a 3135 movement manufactured completely by Rolex.

The Everose Rolesor version of the Yacht-Master paired with the chocolate dial makes for a very distinct, contemporary looking timepiece. The mix of warm and cool tones create a balance that stands out amongst more traditional yellow or white gold color combinations. This model is also available in monochromatic combinations of platinum and stainless steel.
Closeup of the 2016 Rolex Everose Rolesor Yacht-Master (photo: Rolex)

Rolex Introduces Updates to 9 of Their Wristwatch Models at Baselworld 2016

.Rolex Models.
Every year at Baselworld, watchmakers introduce their latest innovations and product updates to the world. This year, Rolex will be presenting upgrades to 9 of their wristwatch models. Some have received a complete makeover, while others more subtle adjustments. 

For those who are unable to make it to Basel, Switzerland this weekend, I have compiled my favorite configurations of the new 2016 model lineup that is now available to browse on Rolex's official site. Check out my picks below. 


Rolex Cellini Date

2016 Rolex Cellini Date
The Cellini is perhaps the most distinctive amongst Rolex Models, with a more elegant aesthetic that harkens back to the early 20th century. This year, Rolex has released a version of the Cellini Date with a blue guilloche dial, blue leather strap and 18 karat white gold case. The color combination brings the model into the 21st century, while retaining the sophistication of the Cellini.

Rolex Air-King
2016 Rolex Air-King
I have come across many vintage Air-King models while browsing online shops and have come to appreciate their simple yet sporty look. I really like that the minute scale is displayed between the large 3,6 and 9 numerals on the dial. In their homage to aviation, Rolex kept the same 'Air-King' lettering used in vintage models. The stainless steel and black dial make it look similar to the Explorer, but this model features a colored Rolex logo and a green second hand.

Rolex Explorer
2016 Rolex Explorer
This update would fall under the 'more subtle' category I mentioned earlier. I spent a few minutes going back and forth on the Rolex website trying to figure out the difference between this one and the previous model. To my understanding, this model has improved luminescence, making it easier to read in the dark. While largely unchanged, I love the Explorer model because it is so simple and clean. The combination of black and stainless steel is chic, but still substantial. It is also probably the least ostentatious of all the models, which is something I appreciate.

Rolex Pearlmaster 39

2016 Rolex Pearlmaster 39

In contrast, the Pearlmaster 39 is one of the flashiest of the new models. It boasts a dial paved with diamonds, a diamond bezel and diamonds going down the bracelet. This is the Rolex for anyone who loves ice. The dial on this version is quite stunning. It looks like a diamond mosaic and the combination of the brilliant diamonds with the Everose gold on the case and strap is very pleasing to the eye.

 Rolex Ladyjust 28
2016 Rolex Ladyjust 28

The Ladyjust 28 also combines brilliant diamonds with Everose gold. This model comes with a two-tone jubilee bracelet, combining Everose gold with 904L stainless steel. Rolex refers to this mix of metals as 'Rolesor.' Another aspect of this model I found interesting was the dial. The hour markers are diamonds and the dial has what appears to be clouds in the background.

Rolex Datejust 41

2016 Rolex Datejust 41

With a 41mm case, this larger version of the classic Datejust is perfect for anyone who feels that size matters. This model also features a 'Rolesor' combination of gold and stainless steel, pictured here in yellow gold. Equipped with a 3235 movement manufactured completely by the watchmaker, this model is available with either a fluted or smooth bezel. It also comes in Everose combinations.

Rolex Day-Date 40
2016 Rolex Day-Date 40

2016 marks the 60th anniversary of the Day-Date model and Rolex made a few adjustments to last year's Day-Date 40 to mark the occasion. This version features an olive green dial (Rolex's hallmark color), fluted bezel and president bracelet. It is available in white gold as pictured above and also in yellow gold with a diamond and ruby dial. It also comes in a smaller (36mm) size with a jade green/jade lavender carousel dial with diamonds. 

Rolex Yacht-Master

2016 Rolex Yacht-Master
I really like the 2016 color combinations for the Yacht-Master. Last year it was available in Everose gold with a black rubber strap and this year they ushered in several new color combinations with metal bracelets. The version in the photo is a mix of platinum and steel with a blue dial - a very nautical take on the timepiece. It is also available in 37mm with a dark rhodium dial. 

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 

Perhaps the most stylish of the 2016 model lineup is the Cosmograph Daytona with a white dial and black ceramic bezel. Paying tribute to the 1965 version of the Daytona, this wristwatch honors the legacy of Rolex while standing on its own as a fashionable timepiece for today's horology enthusiast. The color combination is both classic and contemporary, proving that great design transcends time.

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