After much anticipation and speculation about what Rolex would present at Baselworld 2017, we can now look back at their new model introductions with a critical eye. There have been mixed reviews about their 2017 model configurations, as is usually the case, but most of the updates have been well-received by enthusiasts. The watchmaker didn't actually introduce any new models this year. Instead, they focused their presentation on new material configurations, mostly in combinations of stainless steel and precious metals.

The 2017 Rolex watch models come at a lower price point than configurations introduced in years past. This comes after the watchmaker made pricing available on their website for their most modestly-priced timepieces. It is clear that they are taking a pragmatic approach to making money while the Swiss watch market has seen years of decline in wristwatch sales. Stainless steel configurations offer the best opportunity for Rolex to take care of their bottom line while sales of precious metal timepieces remain stagnant.

I have posted live photos of the Rolex stand at Baselworld and information about their new model introductions previously. Price guides for the 2017 Sky-Dweller and Daytona configurations are available in the Rolex Shopping Guide section. I have consolidated all of the information coming out of the trade show below for a comprehensive look at the 2017 models including new features and pricing.

2017 White Rolesor Rolex Sky-Dweller

2017 White Rolesor Rolex Sky-Dweller (Reference # 326934)

There weren't too many rumors or predictions about the Sky-Dweller model leading up to Baselworld this year. Rolex's decision to change it up came as a welcomed surprised to enthusiasts around the world. Dealers are already creating waiting lists for the white Rolesor version shown in the photo above. Time will tell if the fervor for this configuration will match that of last year's ceramic Daytona, but for now it is safe to say that the 2017 Sky-Dweller is the runaway hit from the international trade show.

New Features & Options
The 2017 Sky-Dweller model configurations feature the same Calibre 9001 self-winding mechanical movement that the precious metal versions do. Their functionality, therefore, remains the same. However, the display and materials have been modified to make way for a set of two-tone Rolesor configurations. In addition to white Rolesor, there are also yellow gold two-tone versions available with either white, black, blue or champagne dials. The hour markers are now rectangular and the dial color is uniform with the off-center 24-hour disc.

Pricing
I have added pricing for every 2017 Sky-Dweller configuration, including precious metals, in a price guide for easy price comparisons. The white Rolesor version shown in the photo above is the most affordable, priced at $13,700 (suggested retail price in USD, may vary from dealer to dealer around the world).

2017 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona on Oysterflex

2017 Rolex Daytona on Oysterflex (Reference #116518LN)

One of the predictions that was prevalent early this year was the addition of the Oysterflex elastomer bracelet to new model configurations in 2017. My guess was that it would be featured on the 50th Anniversary Sea-Dweller, but as it turns out the precious metal Daytona configurations were the ones to see an Oysterflex configuration this year. The Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert that was added to the stainless steel Daytona last year was also added to the new precious metal versions.

New Features & Options
The Rolex Daytona on Oysterflex is available in yellow gold, white gold or Everose gold. All of the Oysterflex configurations come with the black Cerachrom bezel insert that displays the tachymeter. A gold Oysterlock safety clasp is featured on the elastomer bracelet for security. The Everose version is available with either an ivory, black, chocolate brown or pink dial.

Pricing
I created a pricing guide for every 2017 Daytona model, including the yellow gold Oysterflex configuration shown above, priced at $26,200. With the addition of the rubber watchband, there are now precious metal Daytona models at a more affordable price to the consumer.

2017 Rolex Yacht-Master II

2017 Rolex Yacht-Master II (Rerence #116680)

To say that Rolex introduced a new Yacht-Maser II configuration in 2017 would be a bit of an exaggeration. Like they did to the Explorer model last year, the watchmaker improved the display of the YM2. It is a minimal change that yields maximum results, however. As you can see in the lume photos I posted previously, the Chromalight display has benefited greatly from this tweak and the end user will benefit from it in the end.

New Features & Options
The hands of the previous Yacht-Master II model were swapped our for the Mercedes-shaped hands characteristic of most Rolex professional models. The small, square hour markers were enlarged and the marker at 12 o'clock is now triangular with the 6 o'clock marker rectangular. This allows the wearer to better tell the time in the dark with minimal design changes to the original model. All other features and options remain the same.

Pricing
The good news for consumers is that the minimal changes made to this model come at no additional cost. The pricing for all Yacht-Master II models remain the same, with the stainless steel Yacht-Master II shown retailing for approximately $17,800.

2017 Rolex Sea-Dweller 50th Anniversary Edition

2017 50th Anniversary Rolex Sea-Dweller (Reference #126600)

The most talked-about model prior to Baselworld was certainly the Sea-Dweller. With the 50th anniversary of its introduction celebrated in 2017, it was a no-brainer that there would be a new edition this year. However, the modifications to this model were surprising to most. I compared the new version to the previous model in a post that lists the differences between the configurations in detail. Even though most people wouldn't have predicted the updates, they are welcomed by most, with the exception of those who have issues with the Cyclops magnifying lens.

New Features & Options
The addition of the Cyclops magnifying lens was one of the most surprising new features on the 2017 Sea-Dweller. The Deepsea and Sea-Dweller models have never featured date magnification in previous years. The case was upsized to 43mm, just 1mm smaller than the Deepsea in diameter now. The name is colored in red on the dial in homage to the 1967 introductory model configuration.

Pricing 
The suggested retail price for the 2017 50th Anniversary Sea-Dweller is $10,800. This puts it over $2,000 more expensive than the Submariner Date and about $700 less expensive than the Deepsea.

2017 White Rolesor Rolex Datejust 41

2017 White Rolesor Rolex Datejust 41 (Reference #126334)

The classic Rolex Datejust is now available in a combination of white gold and 904l stainless steel with a case diameter of 41mm. The combination of steel and white gold with a blue dial was a common theme at the Rolex stand, with Sky-Dweller and Oyster Perpetual models also featuring the color combination.

New Features & Options
The Datejust was presented as shown above and also with diamond hour markers and Jubilee bracelets. One of the most important new features on this model is not aesthetic, though. A new Calibre 3235 now gives this model a 70 hour power reserve, increased from 48 hours in previous model years.

Pricing 
The Datejust 41 shown above is priced at approximately $8,900. This is the most varied model, however, so pricing on different configurations varies accordingly.

2017 Stainless Steel Rolex Lady-Datejust 28

2017 Rolex Lady-Datejust 28 (Reference #279160)

According to Vogue magazine, pink is the hottest color amongst Millennials. Rolex isn't in the habit of capitalizing off of watch trends, but their latest Lady-Datejust 28 configuration offers a pink dial at a price that is somewhat affordable to younger consumers. Like the Datejust 41, it is available in 904l stainless steel and white gold as shown in the photo above.

New Features & Options
When it comes to the Datejust, there are more options available than with any other Rolex model. It is also the most varied in terms of case sizing, with cases as small as 28mm and as large as 41mm. It is no longer available in 26mm, though. The only model available in that size is now the stainless steel Oyster Perpetual. The Lady-Datejust 28 benefits from a new generation Calibre 2236 featuring a Syloxi hairspring.

Pricing
The Lady-Datejust 28 in white Rolesor retails for about $6,000. Depending on the configuration, however, the prices go up to $54,300.

2017 Gem-Set Rolex Yacht-Master 40

2017 Gem-Set Rolex Yacht-Master 40 (Reference #116695 SATS)

The gem-set Yacht-Master 40 shown above is the most unique model configuration introduced at Baselworld. It has been met with confusion by enthusiasts and dealers. Some even liken the aesthetic of the rainbow-colored gems that cover the bezel to Candy Crush. While brands like Moschino embrace the likeness of the colorful video game, it seems a bit out of place for Rolex, especially on the rose gold Yacht-Master 40. This configuration is likely designed to appeal to shoppers in Dubai and other areas that embrace diamond and gems on their timepieces.

New Features & Options
The only new feature on this configuration is the addition of the 32 sapphires, 8 tsavorites and triangular diamond onto the bezel of the Yacht-Master model that was originally introduced in 2015.

Pricing
There is no price listed for this configuration in the official price guide provided by the watchmaker. It is not listed on their official website, either. The price is likely available upon request.

2017 Rolex Cellini Moonphase

2017 Rolex Cellini Moonphase (Reference #50535)

The Cellini Moonphase shown above is the pièce de résistance of the 2017 Rolex models. It features a beautiful display that harkens back to the mid-twentieth century. The moonphase indicator is colored in deep blue to contrast with the white dial. The case, hands and markers are made from Everose gold and the strap comes in dark brown alligator leather. It is secured by a gold Cronclasp in 18 ct Everose gold.

New Features & Options
While there is only one option for the new Moonphase, it certainly meets the needs of anyone looking for a classic dress watch with a low profile and vibrant display. The moon appliqué is made using a rhodium-plated meteorite. This makes the pattern of each one unique, as the material used is not found on earth. Another excellent addition to this model is the date displayed around the circumference of the dial and indicated by a light blue date hand.

Pricing
The Cellini Moonphase is priced at $25,500. It is the most expensive of the collection, which is priced in the $15,000 to $20,000 range.


Rolex has added most of these models to their official website at rolex.com, with the exception of the gem-set Yacht-Master 40. You can watch short videos of each model on their YouTube channel and other official social media accounts. While the 2017 models are ready for viewing, they will not hit dealers for purchase before the summer. However, if you are interested in any of the more popular configurations, it would be wise to call your trusted Authorized Dealer and place your name on the list for it. After all, there are still people waiting to get their hands on the ceramic Daytona introduced at Baselworld 2016.

>>BACK TO SHOPPING GUIDE

Celebrating One Year of Rob's Rolex Chronicle

Today marks one year since I published the first post to Rob's Rolex Chronicle. My original intention was to offer useful and nuanced information about Rolex to fans of the brand, including newbies to the world of horology. I have learned a lot about the company and their wristwatches over the past year and hope that I have shared that knowledge in the content of my posts.

The Rolex Models section has seen tremendous growth over the past year. It currently features sections about new and vintage watches as well as a Tech section that offers a look inside your favorite Rolex models. The Model Comparisons page has garnered particular interest, especially from those who are trying to figure out which model is right for them.

The Rolex Shopping Guide has also expanded over time, covering topics related to the search for the perfect Rolex model for you. There are so many factors that go into the purchase of a luxury timepiece that I felt it necessary to break them down in terms that the average consumer can comprehend. From pricing to functionality, I hope that my shopping guide offers a comprehensive look at the market and the most important aspects of the purchase decision.

The Rolex Owner's Lounge is the newest section of this site and it offers Rolex owners information on every aspect of ownership. The most utilitarian information is found in the Owner's Guide, covering topics that range from how to set the time on your watch to repairs and maintenance. The company's history is also presented in a Historical Timeline that covers their milestones over the past century. Another point of interest for readers is seeing their favorite Rolex model on today's most talked-about celebrities.

An FAQ page featuring Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Rolex completes this blog. The answers range from information about Rolex to mechanical watches in general. This is a great place to start if you are new to the world of wristwatches. I break down the parts of a watch, show you how they work and answer questions about Rolex as a company.

With Baselworld 2017 around the corner, I look forward to adding new and exciting content in the weeks to come. I would love to hear what topics readers enjoy the most so that I can focus my content on that. E-mail rolexchronicle@gmail.com or use the social media links on the sidebar to connect with me and share your thoughts and ideas.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for following my Rolex journey. This blog's readership has grown exponentially over the past few months and I look forward to seeing it grow even more in the future. For now, I hope that the information found in these sections is helpful and informative to you on your journey.

Thank you again!

Rob

Rolex Bronze Explorer II Concept

The image above is a bronze Explorer II that I put together to express my desire for a new and bold Explorer configuration. Since they currently don't offer Explorer models in any material other than stainless steel, I figure it wouldn't hurt to introduce a bronze version. Check out my post on this concept for more information on why I think a bronze Rolex would be a great addition to their professional collection.

Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000

I put together a post with my 2017 Rolex model update predictions that focuses on their past behavior in terms of model updates. The most likely prediction is a 50th anniversary model update for the Sea-Dweller 4000. There are a couple other models with anniversaries and I also list other factors that may influence the watchmaker's model updates, like sizes and materials.

Rolex Oysterflex Bracelet

One of the innovations that I feel will most likely be introduced on new model configurations is the Oysterflex bracelet shown in the photo above. With the popularity of rubber straps for Rolex watches, it makes perfect sense for the watchmaker to capitalize off the trend by offer more rubber strap models in addition to the Everose gold Yacht-Master that is currently offered with the Oysterflex.

Blacked Out Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000 Concept

Another concept that I chose to bring to life is a blacked out Sea-Dweller 4000. Although this would be a big move for the watchmaker, who usually maintains a classical aesthetic on their wristwatch models, I feel that it is entirely in their wheelhouse considering that they already use a PVD coating on their Tudor Heritage Black Bay Dark. It may be pie in the sky, but it doesn't hurt to dream.

When it comes to making predictions, I find that it is more important to express my desire than try to be dead on. We lose nothing by letting the watchmaker know which models we love, which we think could use an upgrade and what we want our Rolex watches to look like in the future.

Regardless of what we see at Baselworld 2017, I hope that their model updates combine the precision and innovation Rolex is known for with an emboldened aesthetic that incorporates some of the aspects of their Tudor brand that we have come to love. The only question left for me to ask going into the new year is: what would you like to see from Rolex in 2017?

>>BACK TO FAQ

2016 Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000 (photo: Rolex)

With 2016 coming to an end and Baselworld 2017 approaching, many wonder how watchmakers like Rolex plan to change their collections to mark the passage of another year. Forum members and bloggers have already begun speculating which models will receive new configurations and which may be discontinued. I have put together a few of my ideas on the subject based on past years below while we wait for the official announcement leading up to Baselworld next March.

Anniversaries
One thing that I have noticed about Rolex is that they like to mark the anniversaries of their models' introductions with special edition watches. The biggest anniversary being celebrated in 2017 is that of the Sea-Dweller, originally introduced fifty years ago. It is more than likely that this milestone will be marked with a new configuration, maybe featuring a blue bezel or dial, an Oysterflex strap or a size increase. Other models with anniversaries in 2017 are the Yacht-Master with its 25th anniversary, the YM2 introduced ten years ago and the original GMT-Master II which was introduced thirty-five years ago. Will Baselworld 2017 bring a GMT-Master II 'Coke' as many predict? Or will Rolex present a Sea-Dweller on Oysterflex Bracelet instead? We will have to wait and see.

Materials
One of the biggest model configurations introduced in recent years, the ceramic Daytona (Reference # 116500LN) proved that the demand for models with their Cerachrom bezel insert is high. Their Oysterflex strap is another interesting feature that I feel may appear on more models in the coming year. The watchmaker introduced many Everose gold configurations in 2016 on their sports and dress watches, making it another popular material to look out for. As I mentioned in a previous post, I also hold out hope for a bronze configuration, though many enthusiasts find it improbable. The idea of an Explorer II with a bronze case and leather strap still excites me, though.

Sizes
One of the ways in which Rolex introduces new model configurations is by changing their case sizes. The Datejust and Explorer models have seen increased case sizes in recent years and the big watch trend does not seem to be going anywhere, so I think it is likely that they will come out with new case sizes for one or more of their models. With the current selection of Sea-Dweller and Submariner models sized at 44 millimeters and 40 millimeters, I think that there is a possibility for a 42 millimeter Sea-Dweller 4000 configuration. I also see the possibility for a Yacht-Master configuration in a new size.

Predictions
One of the 2017 Rolex model predictions that has already gained traction on forums is the discontinuation of the 44 millimeter Deepsea. While I am not entirely convinced, I do think that the watchmaker would benefit from positioning a new Sea-Dweller configuration closer to the Deepsea in size while slowly phasing out the Deepsea over time. I think it is also more likely to see more Everose gold configurations than the introduction of a bronze model, though I think bronze would be a bold move. The Cerachrom bezel insert and Oysterflex strap may make appearances again, perhaps this time on more colorful configurations.

For more information on the 2016 Rolex model lineup, check out my Rolex Shopping Guide or visit rolex.com.