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

Rolex Chêne-Bourg Site (photo: Jean-Daniel Meyer)

According to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH, the decline of exports for the Swiss watch industry softened from October to November of 2016. While exports of precious metal configurations saw a decline, stainless steel models offset the loss with a small increase. Watches priced over 3,000 and between 200 and 500 Swiss francs saw the most significant decline, with wristwatches at other export prices showing a small increase.

Sales rose in mainland China and the United Kingdom, with Hong Kong remaining stable. The rest of Europe and the United States saw declines, however, bringing exports down. These numbers are seen as somewhat positive according to the Swiss watch industry, as the months prior showed a steady decline in imports overall. Whether the steadying of exports will signal an end to the decline remains to be seen. With watchmakers buying back inventory this year to offset their declining sales, it seems that they have their work cut out for them in the first quarter of 2017.

Rolex is not a public company, so their sales figures and production numbers remain shrouded in mystery. However, these numbers make it clear that the Swiss watchmakers need to create a significant amount of fanfare at Baselworld 2017 in the hopes of changing the negative trend in watch exports in the coming year. It would be wise to focus on the segments that are currently trending upward, so I don't expect as many precious metal configurations as interesting stainless steel models. Rolex is known to focus on their long-term goals as compared to other companies that tend to go with current trends. This will make it interesting to see how they position themselves at the trade show in March.

>>BACK TO LIFESTYLE 

Rolex Turn-O-Graph Reference 6202 (photo: Phillips)

One of the first Rolex models to feature a rotating bezel, the Turn-O-Graph model (Reference # 6202) was released in 1953. It wasn't popular at the time, but this stainless steel wristwatch was the predecessor to the brand's most famous professional models, including the Submariner. The 6202 shown in the photo above was part of the Rolex Milestones auction held by Phillips in Hong Kong last month and sold for approximately $32,225 US.

The Turn-O-Graph above features a black lacquer dial that is still relatively shiny given its age. This model was also available with a honeycomb dial at the time, similar to that of the Explorer (Reference #6350) that also sold at the Milestones auction. Given that this model features its original dial, bezel and bracelet, it is very rare due to the fact that this model was quickly discontinued due to the popularity of the Submariner and GMT-Master in later years. The numerals have an orange patina as does the lollipop seconds hand.

What makes this reference interesting in the current market is the fact that the Turn-O-Graph model was short-lived, making vintage pieces like this hard to find. It looks so similar to the Sub and GMT that it is familiar to collectors in terms of aesthetic, but still holds its own value in its uniqueness. For more information on this model and the others sold at auction in Hong Kong, visit phillips.com.

>>BACK TO ROLEX MODELS

While Tudor Watch Company offers their Heritage Black Bay Dark model with a black PVD coating on it, we have yet to see Rolex come out with a blacked out model. When thinking of how they might commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Sea-Dweller 4000 at Baselworld 2017, it occurred to me that offering a blacked out version is not only within their production capabilities, but also something that already has a market. Many companies offer after-market modification services and it might make sense for the watchmaker to apply a dark coating onto the stainless steel watch in-house to cut out the middle man.

The image above is a Photoshopped SD4K with a blacked out Oyster case and bracelet and the name and depth rating in double red to honor dive watches of years past. What I love about this concept is that it still maintains the Rolex aesthetic while bringing into the 21st century in terms of style. They are not known for following trends with their collections for the Rolex brand, so this would be a bold move that would revitalize a professional model that is usually overlooked. It would also be wise to invest in marketing another stainless steel configuration this year as precious metal watches aren't moving as much in international markets.

Even with all of my arguments for a blacked out Sea-Dweller 4000 in 2017, I know that it is a pie in the sky prediction based on Rolex's modus operandi when it comes to updating models. However, I don't think it hurts to daydream. As much as I respect the brand, I do crave a bold move from them in the coming year that would show watch enthusiasts that they are capable of more than building upon classic models and 20th century aesthetics.

>>BACK TO FAQ