Few could have predicted that a collaboration between the well-known watch brands Swatch and Omega would become so globally popular. Swatch Group, who owns both brands, has truly made history with the launch of the MoonSwatch—a watch for everyone.

Unexpectedly introduced in March 2022, the MoonSwatch quickly became an instant success. The launch of the watch collection drew significant attention on social media, where images of long queues outside Swatch stores worldwide quickly spread. This dramatically increased interest, even among those who typically do not follow watch trends, was for some people a surprise. The hype around these watches led to a boom in the secondary market, and stores imposed a limit of two watches per person to manage the demand.

The collection consists of eleven different models inspired by various celestial bodies, providing a wide range of colors so everyone can find a favorite. The affordability and versatility quickly made the watch popular among both fans and collectors. The MoonSwatch combines Swatch’s playfulness and design with Omega’s iconic Speedmaster style, creating an attractive mix of tradition and innovation.

Despite it being over two years since the launch, the MoonSwatch is still being sold actively. Swatch Group continues to keep the trend alive by launching new models, like the recently introduced Mission to the Moonphase in the “Full Moon” and “New Moon” variants. These models include a moon phase complication, a novelty for Swatch, with a charming detail where little Snoopy also rests on the moon—a nice tribute to Snoopy’s long-standing relationship with NASA.

Another novelty is the MoonShine Gold, launched to further increase exclusivity. This model features a black dial and a gray case, with a special detail where the chronograph’s second hand is only produced during a full moon, and is covered with Omega’s own MoonShine gold and decorated with a new pattern for every full moon.

With their unique brand combination, Swatch and Omega have created a covetable collection where each new collaboration, like the recent one with Blancpain to celebrate the 70th anniversary of their diveing watch Fifty Fathoms, continues to engage and fascinate watch enthusiasts worldwide.

Their ability to continuously introduce new, popular models showcases a smart and well-thought-out strategic move. The accessible price allows customers to purchase multiple watches and experiment with colors. For those who prefer to vary the look further, Wristbuddys offers affordable rubber straps for all models—Omega X Swatch and Blancpain X Swatch—in many colors and stylish options that suit various styles and preferences. 

The post Is it a Timeless Success – Swatch X Omega appeared first on Millenary Watches.

Rolex, the Swiss luxury watchmaker, has unveiled its latest releases at Watches and Wonders in Geneva, and everyone is buzzing with excitement.

One of the biggest news from Rolex at Watches and Wonders for 2023 is the upgraded Rolex Daytona collection, which has undergone a complete revamp. Rolex has replaced the previous reference 1165XX with the new generation reference 1265XX, denoting an upgraded model with a new generation caliber. This means that every single 1165XX Daytona reference has been discontinued and replaced by a new 1265XX reference.

In honor of the 60th anniversary of the watch, Rolex has taken steps to ensure that the legend of the timepiece lives on. The brand has revisited the entire range, with a focus on the reworking of the case, dial, and movement. This comprehensive overhaul includes numerous adjustments and evolutions, which serve as a reminder that the pursuit of excellence is a never-ending journey.

Rolex’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in the meticulous attention to detail that has gone into the anniversary edition of the watch. Every aspect of the timepiece has been re-examined and improved upon, from its external appearance to its inner workings.

This article will delve into the details of the new Daytona collection, exploring the features and enhancements that Rolex has incorporated to make this iconic timepiece even better. With its unrivaled reputation for precision and elegance, Rolex has once again raised the bar with its latest creations, and the new Daytona collection is no exception. Let’s take a closer look at what this new generation of Rolex watches has to offer.

New Rolex Daytona Collection 2023 1265XX

The upgrade of the Daytona series is huge news. The last update to the movement of the Daytona was in the year 2000 when Rolex released the 116520. With the launch of this model, Rolex presented its first in-house caliber, the caliber 4130. This means that the caliber 4130 had a total production run of a whopping 23 years. That is a lot even by Rolex standards. And with that in mind, the Daytona was certainly due for an upgrade.

Rolex didn’t save any energy and therefore upgraded every single Daytona watch in its collection. The most important upgrade certainly relates to the movement but visually, the Daytona has been upgraded and improved as well.

Rolex’s upgrade from reference 1165XX to 1265XX covers three areas: dial, case, and movement. Let’s have a closer look at the upgrades that Rolex did to the new generation Daytona.

Upgraded caliber 4131

The Cosmograph Daytona is a legendary timepiece that has a fascinating history in Swiss watchmaking. Initially, the Daytona was equipped with Valjoux movements, but in 1988, Rolex switched to calibre 4030, which was based on the Zenith El Primero calibre. This was the world’s first high-frequency self-winding chronograph movement. To ensure its reliability over time, Rolex engineers optimized the calibre by reducing its frequency to 4 Hz. In 2000, Rolex introduced the 4130 calibre, which has since been updated to become the 4131 in 2023.

Naturally, the new caliber 4131 used in the new generation Daytona is an upgraded and improved version of its predecessor.

The 4131 calibre is a remarkable feat of engineering, consisting of only 314 parts, and has earned a reputation as one of the most robust and efficient movements in the world. The calibre’s architecture is streamlined, providing space for the barrel and enabling a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. The vertical clutch mechanism allows the chronograph to operate continuously without sacrificing accuracy. Additionally, the Chronergy escapement and Parachrom hairspring contribute to the calibre’s outstanding performance.

In 2023, Rolex further enhanced the Cosmograph Daytona by optimizing its movement with the latest patented innovations. The entire development and production of the movement was carried out in-house by Rolex’s team of expert engineers and watchmakers. They focused on revisiting the mechanism to enhance its performance in terms of precision, robustness, and reliability. The result is a certified Superlative Chronometer, which solidifies the Cosmograph Daytona’s status as the standard-bearer for self-winding chronographs.

The new caliber 4131 boasts significant improvements, including two patented mechanisms: the Paraflex shock absorbers, which protect the oscillator from impact, and the Chronergy escapement, which resists high magnetic fields and significantly reduces energy loss.

The movement’s self-winding mechanism has been optimized for greater durability, thanks to the ball bearing in the Perpetual rotor. In addition, the movement has a new look, with its bridges featuring an exclusive Côtes de Genève Rolex decoration. These innovative and patented technical solutions set a new standard for excellence in terms of robustness, reliability, efficiency, and precision.

The engineers and watchmakers worked tirelessly to ensure that every component of the movement is optimized for superior performance. The result is a timepiece that is both beautiful and highly functional, capable of withstanding the most challenging conditions.

Revised Case and bezel

The case of the Daytona has not been dramatically changed. The Daytona still remains 40mm in diameter but it has been slightly reworked and refined to achieve a slightly slimmer and more elegant profile. The redesign of the case is not huge however

The biggest change in regards to the case and bracelet, however, is the fact that all Daytona watches that had ceramic bezels have now been redesigned to work as bezel inserts. On the 1165XX Daytonas, the ceramic bezels were completely exposed and sat on top of the case of the watches. The downside to this was of course that they were not protected. If you accidentally hit the edge of the ceramic bezel against something hard, there was a risk that the ceramic insert was going to crack. So for the 2023 upgraded Daytona model, Rolex has changed the design of the ceramic-bezel Daytonas by adding a metal frame for the bezel so that the ceramic part works as an insert similar to how other models in the Rolex lineup have. This makes the ceramic bezel works as an insert, keeps it protected, and minimizes the risk that it is going to crack if the watch is hit by a hard object.

The high-tech ceramic Cerachrom bezel on the Daytonas that are equipped with ceramic bezels now feature a graduation that is directly molded into the material, which is a remarkable technological achievement. The graduation is made easily readable by using a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) process to deposit a thin layer of platinum.

The latest iteration of the Cosmograph Daytona takes the aesthetics of the watch to the next level with its redesigned edging. The bezel features edging crafted from the same metal as the case, giving the watch a sleek and cohesive appearance. This subtle yet impactful design change is a testament to Rolex’s attention to detail and its dedication to creating timepieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Whilst the upgrade of the case design may not seem like a lot, looking closer will certainly reveal that small tweaks can make for huge differences. Look at the pictures below and compare the 116500LN with the new 126500LN. The lugs on the new 126500LN are less curved and the crown guards have also been slightly reworked:

Revised dial

Last but not least, Rolex has also revised the dial design of all Daytona references. 

The dial of the Cosmograph Daytona has been updated to feature a new graphic balance, with resized and restyled hour markers and counter rings. To enhance the visual harmony of the watch, subtle combinations of colors and finishes have been used to accentuate the contrast between the dial and the counters and/or their rings.

These design changes give the watch a more modern and updated appearance, while still maintaining the timeless elegance that Rolex is known for. The brand’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the watch’s design, from the meticulously crafted hour markers to the subtle use of color and finish. These updates to the face of the Cosmograph Daytona demonstrate Rolex’s commitment to creating timepieces that are both beautiful and highly functional. The result is a watch that is not only a classic of Swiss watchmaking but also a stunning work of art.

Rolex discontinued Daytona models 2023

• Daytona 116503
• Daytona 116508 (including John Mayer green dial)
• Daytona 116509
• Daytona 116505
• Daytona 116506
• Daytona 116519LN
• Daytona 116518LN
• Daytona 116515LN
• Daytona 116500LN

New Rolex Daytona models 2023

• Daytona 116503
• Daytona 126508
• Daytona 126509
• Daytona 126505
• Daytona 126506
• Daytona 126519LN
• Daytona 126518LN
• Daytona 126515LN
• Daytona 126500LN

New Rolex Daytona models 2023

Let’s have a look at all new Rolex Daytona models for 2023:

Daytona 126503

Daytona 126508

Daytona 126509

Daytona 126505

Daytona 126506

Daytona 126519LN

Daytona 126518LN

Daytona 126515LN

Daytona 126500LN

The post NEWS! Rolex Releases 2023 New Generation Daytona Collection 1265XX appeared first on Millenary Watches.

Finally! The time has come for Rolex to present its novelties for the year. Rolex has released a lot of new and exciting models but prior to the launches, there was a lot of speculation about what Rolex would decide to do with the Milgauss. In 2022, Rolex discontinued the 116400 and only kept the 116400GV in the collection. A lot of people speculated that because the Air-King had been upgraded to ref 126900 with crown guards and a new caliber, the Milgauss was also due for an upgrade as these models share the same case.

And the fact that Rolex discontinued the 116400 in 2022 caused people to speculate about whether Rolex was getting ready to release a new Milgauss in 2023, reference 126400GV. Most people believed that Rolex would discontinue the old Milgauss references in 2022 and release new versions in the same year but this didn’t happen. Instead, they discontinued one of two Milgauss models and instead focused on the Air-King.

But now it’s 2023 and Rolex’s novelties for the year have been announced and that was not what happened. Instead, Rolex discontinued the Milgauss collection.

Background to the discontinuation of the Milgauss

For years, people had been saying that the Milgauss range was long overdue an update. Up until 2023, the Milgauss 116400 was powered by the old-generation caliber 3131 whereas almost all of Rolex’s other watches had been equipped with newer-generation calibers. 

The Milgauss 116400 and 116400GV references were launched in 2007. In 2022, Rolex discontinued the 116400 but kept the 116400GV in the collection. As such, until finally being discontinued in 2023, it had a total production run of 16 years. That is a lot even by Rolex standards without receiving any technical upgrades. And during this time, Rolex’s know-how and technical expertise had certainly improved a lot – but the Milgauss hadn’t.

The Air-King, which shares cases and movements with the Milgauss, was upgraded in 2022 when Rolex discontinued the 116900 and replaced it with the 126900 with the new-generation 3230 caliber. Since these two models share cases and movements, people assumed that it was only a matter of time before the Milgauss would be upgraded as well. And frankly, it came as a surprise that Rolex didn’t upgrade it in 2022 at the same time as the Air-King.

Based on the Air-King, most people suspected that Rolex would release a new Milgauss in 2023 with crown guards just like the Air-King- and that it would respond to a big complaint a lot of people had about the model, which was its thickness.

Why Rolex discontinued the Milgauss

So why did Rolex discontinue the Milgauss altogether without replacing it with a new, upgraded version which everyone thought would happen? Well, we have our guesses.

Rolex’s shocking decision to discontinue the Milgauss collection altogether certainly sparks questions about whether Rolex will ever reintroduce the Milgauss again. 

The only reason why we say this is that Milgauss means 1000 gauss. As you probably know, 1000 gauss is essentially the very least amount of anti-magnetism we expect for virtually any watch to avoid having the watch magnetized. For that reason, if Rolex is to create a new and improved anti-magnetic watch, they would have to dramatically improve its anti-magnetic properties. And in that case, a “mil gauss” won’t cut it.

So the question is therefore whether Rolex will keep the Milgauss discontinued or whether they will reintroduce it again in the future and retain its name, despite the fact that there will be a discrepancy between the watch’s name and its true anti-magnetic properties. 

Omega, for example created an anti-magnetism of 15000 gauss for its Aqua-Terra. Compare that with Rolex’s 1000 gauss and you can see that Rolex is losing the battle by a long shot.

But because most people who wear Rolex watches are not scientists, the question is whether or not the Milgauss has a place in Rolex’s collection in the modern world. The Milgauss was originally developed for scientists but that was many years ago. The question remains to be seen whether Rolex reintrocuces the Milgauss with greatly improved anti-magnetic properties, introduces a completely new line of watches for anti-magnetism, or if they let the Milgauss remain discontinued. We’ll likely find out in the years to come, but that’s all we know for now.

The post NEWS! Rolex Discontinues Milgauss 116400GV appeared first on Millenary Watches.

Rolex, the iconic luxury watch brand, has always been known for its exquisite craftsmanship, timeless designs, and uncompromising quality. Each year, the brand releases a range of new models, each one eagerly awaited by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

As we step into the year 2023, Rolex has once again unveiled a stunning lineup of new releases, showcasing their continued dedication to innovation and refinement. The new designs were presented at Watches & Wonders in Geneva on the 27th of March.

From updated classics to bold new designs, these new releases offer something for every taste and style. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the latest additions to the Rolex family, exploring the unique features and characteristics that make each one so special. So, whether you’re a long-time Rolex fan or simply curious about the latest in luxury timepieces, join us as we delve into the world of Rolex’s new releases for 2023.

Below, we have compiled a complete list of all new Rolex models for 2023. This also includes models that have been upgraded with new dials but where the reference number remains the same. Without further ado, let’s have a look.

Let’s begin by looking at the new references. Note that even though Rolex may introduce new dials for certain models, they may not necessarily get new reference numbers unless Rolex updates anything else about the watch.

Here is a summary of all new Rolex references for 2023:

• Daytona 126503
• Daytona 126508
• Daytona 126509
• Daytona 126505
• Daytona 126506
• Daytona 126519LN
• Daytona 126518LN
• Daytona 126515LN
• Daytona 126500LN
• GMT-Master II 126718GRNR
• GMT-Master II 126713GRNR
• Cellini 52508
• Yacht-Master 226627
• Sky-Dweller  336239
• Sky-Dweller  336238
• Sky-Dweller  336235
• Sky-Dweller  336934
• Sky-Dweller  336935
• Sky-Dweller  336938
• Sky-Dweller 336933
• Explorer 40 224270

Off-catalog Rolex watches

In addition to the watches above, Rolex has rare and unique “off-catalog” watches that are not part of its standard collection and are primarily reserved for ultra-premium VIP customers. The new off-catalog Rolex watches for 2023 are:

• Daytona 126599TRU – Bezel set with 36 rubies, 11 ruby hour markers. Middle case set with 54 diamonds
• Daytona 126598TRU – Dial paved with 417 diamonds. Bezel set with 36 rubies. 11 ruby hour markers
• Daytona 126576TBR – Bezel set with 36 diamonds. 11 diamond hour markers
• 126576TBR – Dial paved with 483 diamonds. Bezel set with 36 diamonds.
• Yacht-Master 42  226668TBR -diamond-set case and bracelet
• Yacht-Master 42 226668TBR  – Diamond set case and bracelet with full pavé dial
• GMT-Master II LHD -Bezel set with 16 emeralds, 18 black sapphires, and 12 diamonds. Middle case set with 220 diamonds. Bracelet set with 172 diamonds.

In addition, the Daytona rainbow has now been discontinued.

All new Rolex models 2023

Let’s take a look at all new Rolex models for 2023, including new dials. If it’s a new model but with the same dial that has previously existed, it is not included in the list below unless there were no added dial to the collection.

Daytona 126503

Daytona 126508

Daytona 126509

Daytona 126505

Daytona 126506

Daytona 126519LN

Daytona 126518LN

Daytona 126515LN

Daytona 126500LN

GMT-Master II 126718GRNR

GMT-Master II 126713GRNR

1908 52508

1908 52509

Yacht-Master 226627

Sky-Dweller  336934 new model with new green dial

Sky-Dweller  336935 new model with new blue-green dial

Sky-Dweller  336239

Sky-Dweller  336238

Sky-Dweller  336235

Sky-Dweller  336938

Sky-Dweller 336933 Oyster and Jubilee

Explorer 40 224270

Rolex Watches with new dials but the same reference

Oyster Perpetual 41 124300 NEW DIAL

Oyster Perpetual 31 277200 NEW DIAL

Oyster Perpetual 36 126000 NEW DIAL

Day-Date 36 128238 with carnelian stone dial

Day-Date 128235 green aventurine dial

Day-Date 128235 turquoise stone dial (previously only available for yellow gold 128238)

Day-Date 128236 turquoise stone dial (previously only available for yellow gold 128238)

The post New Rolex Models 2023 Watches & Wonders [Complete List] appeared first on Millenary Watches.

Once a year, Rolex announces its new models for the year. The time when watch brands present their novelties for the year is one of the most hyped and anticipated events of the year and Rolex certainly stands out amongst all of the watch brands in terms of the level of engagement and interest there is in Rolex’s new models.

But just as people can’t wait to find out which new models Rolex has released, a lot of people are also curious to learn about which models Rolex has discontinued.

When it comes to new Rolex models, it’s often out with the old and in with the new. Meaning, if Rolex presents a new model, it replaces the predecessor. However, that is not always the case. Most of Rolex’s releases tend to be variations of existing models that are introduced to an existing collection. When a new model replaces an existing model is when Rolex moves from one generation of a model to another, for example, by fitting it with a new-generation caliber and giving it a new reference number. 

However, sometimes, Rolex discontinues watches out of the blue even if they have no watch to replace them. Generally speaking, various dial options tend to be what Rolex discontinues most frequently unless there’s a huge model upgrade. So, for example, they may discontinue a particular Datejust dial but the model itself will remain in production just with the remaining dial options. And on the same token, Rolex also often introduces new dial variations as well.

One of the reasons why there’s such interest in the discontinued Rolex models is that the prices for these watches sometimes tend to go through the roof as they are discontinued. When people find out that they are discontinued and no longer in production, they quickly begin looking to buy one as they know finding one later will become increasingly difficult. When a lot of people do this, it tends to drive prices up and make these discontinued watches even more sought-after and difficult to find.

Below, we have compiled a complete list of discontinued Rolex models for 2023.

Rolex discontinued watches 2023 list

• Daytona 116503
• Daytona 116508
• Daytona 116509
• Daytona 116505
• Daytona 116506
• Daytona 116519LN
• Daytona 116518LN
• Daytona 116515LN
• Daytona 116500LN
• Cellini Moonphase 50535
• Sky-Dweller  326239
• Sky-Dweller  326238
• Sky-Dweller  326235
• Sky-Dweller  326934
• Sky-Dweller  326935
• Sky-Dweller  326938
• Sky-Dweller  326939
• Sky-Dweller 326933
• Sky-Dweller special edition meteorite dial baguette-set 326959TBR
• Sky-Dweller special edition meteorite dial baguette-set Oysterflex 326259TBR
• Milgauss 116400GV

The post Rolex Discontinued Models 2023 [Complete List] appeared first on Millenary Watches.

The Cellini has always been a bit of an ugly duckling in Rolex’s lineup of watches. Although the Cellini collection has been in production almost consistently since its launch in 1986, it has always been overshadowed by Rolex’s other watches and never quite gotten the popularity that Rolex has hoped it would.

The Cellini is Rolex’s dress watch line of timepieces. Over the years, Rolex has produced hundreds of different iterations, references, and variations within the Cellini range. But what they have always had in common is that they are intended to be elegant, luxurious dress watches.

New Rolex Cellini 1908 52508 2023 background and history

In 2022, Rolex did something that indicated that Rolex was up to something with the Cellini. In the last couple of years, the Cellini was always a slow seller and it wasn’t very popular. Whilst it competed with brands like Patek Philippe or Audemars Piguet, most people associate Rolex with sports and tool watches, not luxurious dress watches. Other brands like Patek are far more well-known for this.

Regardless, in 2022, Rolex decided to discontinue virtually every Cellini model in the collection except for one, the 39m Cellini Moonphase. The fact that Rolex only decided to keep a single reference left in the whole Cellini line suggested that Rolex had something big going on in the next year, which is 2023.

And now the time has come.

It’s evident that Rolex felt that the Cellini needed a refresh and a restart to gain traction and finally get the popularity that Rolex wants it to have. Whether or not the Cellini line will grow in popularity remains to be seen but it’s regardless a step in the right direction for Rolex to boost the popularity of its dress watch line.

Introducing Rolex 1908 52508 and 52509

For 2023, Rolex has completely revamped the Cellini line and presented the Cellini 1908 reference 52508 and 52509. These are the same models but in yellow or white gold.

But one important thing to note here is that the Cellini line as of 2023 is now discontinued. Instead, the model’s true name is 1908. The name Cellini is no more. However, we think a lot of people will still continue to call it a Cellini because that’s what we associate Rolex’s dress watches with, despite the fact that the new model line is called 1908.

The Rolex 1908 reference 52508 is a stunning timepiece that exudes elegance and sophistication. It features a 39 mm case crafted from 18 kt yellow gold, paired with a luxurious alligator leather strap. The watch boasts a transparent case back, allowing for the intricate beauty of the movement to be admired, including the pivoting of the oscillating weight. The see-through case back gives a view of the new Rolex caliber 7140 which is equipped with a beautiful gold rotor and is beautifully finished.

One of the standout features of the new 1908 is its dial, which is a true work of art. Each dial is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, with a focus on color, reflections, and surface texture. The decorative elements and overall design combine to give the watch its unique and intrinsic character. Rolex masters all aspects of its dial creation in-house, from the initial sketches to the final inspection, with specific expertise employed in each step of the process. The watch is available either with a white or a black dial.

The watch’s slim case is crowned with a bezel that is part domed and part finely fluted, with the lower part given an elegant fluting and the upper part a classic dome. The 1908 reference 52508 is made with only the highest quality 18 kt gold alloys, cast in Rolex’s exclusive foundry. Depending on the proportion of silver, copper, platinum, or palladium added, different types of 18 kt gold are obtained, including yellow, pink, or white. The gold is then meticulously inspected and shaped with the same attention to detail, ensuring a long-lasting and impeccable result.

Overall, the Rolex 1908 reference 52508 is a true masterpiece of watchmaking, perfectly encapsulating the brand’s commitment to excellence in every aspect of its production.

It’s safe to say that Rolex completely revamped the Cellini line considering the fact that it has been discontinued altogether now. The Cellini dress watch line has been in production for many decades but now, Rolex put an end to it and replaced it with the new 1908 collection. And if you ask us, we can expect Rolex to add more watches to the 1908 collection in the future.

The Rolex 1908 reference 52509 is the exact same model as the watch discussed above but made in 18kt white gold instead of yellow for a stealthy and elegant look.

Rolex 1908 52508 and 52509 Specifications

• Diameter: 39mm
• Case: 18kt yellow gold or 18kt white gold
• Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire
• Water resistance: 50m/165 feet
• Movement: Rolex caliber 7140
• Accuracy: +/-2 seconds
• Power reserve: 66 hours
• Caliber: 7140 
• Dial: white or black.

The post News! Rolex Releases new Cellini 1908 52508 and 52509 appeared first on Millenary Watches.

Watches and Wonders 2023 has brought some of the most prestigious and respected watchmakers together to showcase their latest creations.

Among the most anticipated brands is Rolex.

Rolex has always been known for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, and this year’s collection has been no exception. From classic models to modern interpretations, Rolex has once again raised the bar for luxury watchmaking. In this article, we thought we would 

In this article, we thought we would take a closer look at the new rose gold Sky-Dweller with a striking blue dial. Whilst the watch itself is not new, the new blue dial certainly gives the watch a stunning and unique look that is out of the ordinary.

Rolex Rose gold Sky-Dweller background and history

The very first Sky-Dweller was launched by Rolex in 2012. Unlike the GMT-Master II, the Sky-Dwellwe was not intended for pilots but rather for global travelers and jet-setters. For that reason, the watch was designed with elegance, luxuriousness, and functionality in mind – not strictly as a tool watch.  Moreover, the Sky-Dweller is one of the very few brand-new models that Rolex has released in the last couple of decades. Normally, Rolex focuses on what works and therefore consistently upgrades and improves its existing models. But every now and then, brand new models come around, like the Sky-Dweller. As a matter of fact, when the Sky-Dweller was launched in 2012, it had been 20 years since Rolex released an entirely new watch model, which was the Yacht-Master.

Originally, the Sky-Dweller was only available in solid gold. As a result,  the Sky-Dweller was a top-tier watch with a rather hefty price tag. In 2017, however, Rolex decided to make the model more accessible by making it available in steel and Rolesor (gold and steel). Now, the Sky-Dweller became a much more accessible watch and started growing in popularity.

In 2020 came the next step from Rolex for the Sky-Dweller collection which was the launch of the Sky-Dweller on Oysterflex bracelet. The Oysterflex Sky-Dwellwer was launched in yellow and rose gold – paired with the comfortable and sporty Oysterflex bracelet. Originally, Rolex fitted the full gold Sky-Dwellers on leather straps but as the market has evolved, more people now prefer a less traditional and more sporty alternative, and the Oysterflex definitely hits the spot here. The use of rubber for a gold watch also helps tone it down a bit compared to having a watch with a full gold metal bracelet.

News! Rolex Releases Sky-Dweller 336935 Rose Gold Blue Dial

If you’re familiar with the full rose gold Sky-Dweller reference 336935, this watch is visually very similar. However, the biggest upgrade to this watch, apart from the new stunning dial is the fact that it is now fitted with the latest-generation caliber, caliber 9002 which is the latest Sky-Dweller movement launched in 2023.

When it comes to the dial, Rolex calls this new dial green-blue which is a fair description of the color. It has a stunning sunburst effect and it pairs exceptionally well with the rose gold color.

New generation Sky-Dweller caliber 9002

Apart from new dial, the watch remains the same. – except for one major upgrade – the heart of the watch. With the launch of the 336935, Rolex has upgraded the old-generatioon caliber 9001 and replaced it with the new-generation caliber 9002.

This is not just an upgrade that Rolex did for the rose gold Sky-Dweller but for the 2023 novelties, Rolex announced that all Sky-Dwellers are now upgraded with the new 9002 caliber.

The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 72 hours and has an accuracy of +/-2 seconds per day. Those who are not a fan of the new gree-blue dial will be able to choose from several other dial colors like rhodium, white, and chocolate.

Moreover, if you’re not a fan of rose gold, Rolex has upgraded the whole Sky-Dweller collection with the new caliber.

Sky-Dweller 336935 Specifications

• Diameter: 42mm
• Movement: caliber 9002
• Bracelet: Oyster bracelet with Easylink extension

The post News! Rolex Releases Sky-Dweller 336935 Rose Gold Blue-Green Dial appeared first on Millenary Watches.

Once again, it is time for yet another year of novelties and news from Rolex. Every year, watch brands present their new watch models for the year.

For 2023, Rolex has announced its brand new models as well as discontinued models.

And every time Rolex presents a new GMT-Master II, you can be certain that it is going to take the watch community by storm. The GMT-Master II is one of Rolex’s most popular models so naturally, there’s a lot of hype and excitement around every new update Rolex presents for this model.

In this article, we’re taking a closer look at the new Rolex GMT-Master II in yellow gold released for 2023.

Background and history of the GMT-Master II

In the last couple of years, Rolex has frequently upgraded and updated the GMT-Master II collection. In 2018, Rolex released the ”Root beer” 126711CHNR”. In the same year, Rolex presented the ”Pepsi” 126710BLNR. One year later, Rolex released the 126710BLNR.

The GMT-Master II line underwent a complete upgrade starting in 2018 where the old-generation caliber 3186 caliber was upgraded to the 3285. From 2018 onwards, Rolex upgraded all the models in the collection.

However, since then, there has been something that has been ”missing”. And that is yellow gold. Rolex discontinued the 116713LN and 116718LN in 2018. Since then, the only gold option has been the 126711CHNR and 126715CHNR, both made in Everose gold.

But the fact of the matter is that Everose gold does not appeal to everyone – just like yellow gold doesn’t appeal to everyone. For that reason, it makes sense that Rolex is bringing back yellow gold to the GMT-Master II line – after having been absent for 5 years.

Presenting the new Rolex GMT-Master II 126718GRNR and 126713GRNR

So for 2023, Rolex has blessed us with not one but two new GMT-Master II. The first is the 126718GRNR in solid yellow gold presented on a – for the first time in many years – a solid yellow gold Jubilee bracelet. The second watch is the two-tone version of the same, reference 126713GRNR, also presented on a Jubilee bracelet but this time in two-tone.

The yellow gold GMT-Master II reference 116718LN and yellow gold two-tone GMT ref 116713LN was discontinued in 2018 and since then, Rolex has had no yellow gold option in the GMT range.

But finally, in 2023, we now have both back again – but in a new take with a new twist.

First and foremost, both the 126713GRNR and 126718GRNR have a revised case compared to their predecessors. They also have the new.-generation Rolex caliber 3285 which the rest of the GMT-Master II range shares. One of the biggest changes to this model, however, is the bracelet.

In 2018, Rolex started bringing back the Jubilee bracelet to the GMT-Master II range after having only offered oyster bracelets for quite some time. The jubilee GMTs were extremely popular so Rolex continued to build upon this.

But it is the first time in a very long time that Rolex now offers a GMT-Master II with a solid yellow gold bracelet and a two-tone yellow gold bracelet. In fact, it was decades since.

Another thing that is worth highlighting about both of these new watches is their ending letters of the reference number “GRNR”. This stands for Gris Noir, or in English, Grey, and black. This means that it is not just a plain black Cerachrom bezel insert like the previous yellow-gold versions. Instead, the bezel is now a two-tone with a combination of black and grey. Rolex will likely never go back to using single-colored bezel inserts for the GMT as the two-tone color adds functionality to the watch and makes it easier to distinguish night from day. The tone for the bezel insert for the 126713GRNR and the 126718GRNR is done quite discreetly however so it’s not as bold as for the, for example, “Pepsi” GMT.

Dial

In regard to the dial, the upgrades are only minor. It is presented with the same iconic dial layout as all GMTs have. It has a classic black dial with a glossy finish and applied metal hour markers filled with Chromalight. The difference for this dial, however, is firstly the fact that the hands and hour markers are made in yellow gold to match the cases. Both watches have identical dials. They are clean, elegant, and luxurious.

Movement

In regard to the movement, there are no upgrades here. Both the 126718GRNR and the 126713GRNR are powered by the tried and true caliber 3285 with a power reserve of 70 hours, and an accuracy of +/-2 seconds per day.

126718GRNR and 126713GRNR specifications

• Diameter: 40mm two tone or 40mm solid gold
• Bracelet: Jubilee
• Water resistance: 100m/330 feet
• Power reserve: 70 hours

The post News! Rolex releases GMT-Master II 126718GRNR and 126713GRNR Jubilee appeared first on Millenary Watches.

Once a year, Rolex announces new models for the year, as well as, discontinues old models. Rolex used to do this at Baselworld watch fair but has moved to Watches and Wonders watch fair in Geneva ever since 2021.

It’s safe to say that Rolex is the single most anticipated and hyped brand that people are most curious about. Finally, the time has come, and on the 27th of March 2023, Rolex announced its new models.

There’s always a lot to discover and a lot of exciting releases and one of those is the new Explorer!

Rolex has officially presented the Explorer and naturally, all new sports/professional watches are the ones that get the most exposure, hype, and anticipation.

Rolex Explorer background and history

In 2021, Rolex completely updated and revamped the Explorer range. They discontinued the 39mm Explorer 214270 and replaced it with the 36mm Explorer 124270. Moreover, Rolex discontinued the 216570 and replaced it with the new-generation 216570.

To be honest, we did not expect Rolex to touch the Explorer collection for a few years considering the fact that Rolex completely revised both of its Explorer models. This is why the news around the Explorer 1 can as a bit of a surprise to a lot of people, including us.

Rolex began by including the Explorer in its teaser video. Normally, Rolex hides the new watches in its teaser videos very well so that it is difficult or impossible to tell the model. But for this video, it was very evident that we could expect a new Explorer to be released:

The teaser begins with a block of ice and then the Explorer appears. Even if we wouldn’t have seen the distinct “6” marker in the video, the fact that ice is included certainly tells us that it is an Explorer as it is built for the most challenging environments.

Presenting the New Rolex Explorer 40 

So, what do we have here? This is the new Explorer. The same Explorer 1 we all know and love – virtually identical to the existing 36MM Explorer launched in 2021 but in a larger package. The new Explorer 40 is as the name suggests, 40mm in diameter instead of 36mm.

At first glance, the watch is very similar to what we are used to. It has a classic Oyster case and is fitted on an Oyster bracelet. It uses the signature flat and polished bezel which is an iconic design feature in the Explorer 1. Furthermore, we have the dial whose layout we are all familiar with. It has applied hour markers and Arabic numerals for the 3, 6, and 9, markers, providing excellent legibility thanks to the use of Chromalight which glows strongly.

If you’re familiar with the Explorer 36 or even the previous generation 39mm Explorer reference 214270, the new Explorer 40 224270 will feel very similar.

It is presented with a 40mm Oystesteel case with a satin finished and polished sides. The bezel has a polished finish and the watch is presented with the classic black dial with applied numerals and Arabic numerals for the 3, 6 , and 9 markers. It is presented on a mostly satin-finished oyster bracelet with a Easylink extension system.

The watch is powered by the In-house Rolex caliber 3230. This is a movement we’re quite familiar with and one that has been used for a few years now by Rolex. It has proven to be a robust and durable workhorse and offers a power reserve of 70 hours and an accuracy of +/-2 seconds per day.

So, what is the backstory of the new Explorer 40 224270? Well, in 2021, Rolex discontinued the 39mm Explorer ref 214270 in favor of the smaller 36mm 124270. The latter stayed more true to the original Explorer which was naturally made in a smaller diameter back in the day.

However, the 124270 didn’t gain the popularity that perhaps Rolex expected. THe reason for this is likely that for most men, 36mm wears too small for a sports watch. For a dress watch, a lot of people enjoy smaller sizes but for a rugged sport watch like the Explorer, it makes sense to have a more robust and sporty watch.

A lot of people complained about the 214270 in 39mm being gone from the collection so Rolex likely listened to this and now our prayers have finally been heard with Rolex’s launch of the 40mm Explorer 224270 which has a size that most men will love to wear.

Rolex Explorer 40 specifications

• Diameter: 40mm
• Movement: caliber 3230
• Power reserve: 70 hours
• Water resistance: 100m/330 feet

The post News! Rolex Releases Explorer 40 224270 appeared first on Millenary Watches.

Once a year, Rolex presents new models and announces which models are discontinued. It’s safe to say that the day of Rolex’s release is one of the most anticipated in the watch industry. Furthermore, Rolex is the single most hyped and anticipated brand when it comes to presenting new releases.

Finally, the time has come for Rolex to present its new watches for 2023 and one of the watches that Rolex has released is the Yacht-Master in titanium.

Rolex is a company that is known for evolution, not revolution. This is why many of Rolex’s ”new” watches that are released have only received minimal tweaks, adjustments, and improvements. And although the Yacht-Master is an existing model, this new titanium Yacht-Master is certainly one of the highlights of 2023 considering the fact that it is so different from the other Yacht-Master models in Rolex’s collection.

In this article, we are digging deeper into this unique and important release from Rolex – the brand’s very first standard-production Yacht-Master in titanium.

Background and history to Yacht-Master

We have talked about Rolex and titanium in-depth in the article ”What is RLX titanium” which you can read if you are curious about the background in detail.

What we can say about the new Yacht-Master titanium is the fact that it has been years in the making which has led to this.

Titanium in watches is nothing new. Rolex’s competitors have been making watches in titanium for decades. So from that perspective, it’s not something special. But considering the fact that Rolex is just now starting to release watches in titanium, it’s quite a big deal.

As you may or may not be familiar with, the professional sailor Ben Ainslie was spotted in a photo back in 2021 wearing a 42mm Yacht-Master titanium without a date. The watch was presented on a fabric strap.

As a matter of fact, the watch that Mr. Ainslie wore was a prototype created by Rolex in late 2020. He was interviewed about the watch in October 2020 and said the following:

”The team at Rolex has been incredibly thoughtful by giving me a titanium Yacht-Master 42,” he says. “I’m extremely honoured to have it, plus, from a performance perspective, every little bit of weight that we can save, helps us to go faster with the boat.”

Already at this point, we understood that Rolex was researching and developing the use of titanium for its watches. With its prototype, Rolex would be able to better understand the characteristics of the material and how it performed out in the wild.

Of course, this proved to be a perfectly accurate prediction as Rolex released its first commercial watch made in titanium, the Deepsea Challenge RLX titanium reference 126067. The watch was launched on November 1st, 2022.

Since the research and development of a new material requires a ton of research, it was only a matter of time that Rolex would present more watches made of titanium. It doesn’t make sense to only make one watch. For that reason, it was only a matter of time. And now that has finally all been revealed with the first officially produced Yacht-Master in titanium.

Let’s have a closer look at this watch in detail.

Presenting the new Rolex Yacht-Master titanium 226627

When we first saw the prototype Yacht-Master worn by Ben Ainslie, we were fairly sure that it was only a matter of time before Rolex would launch a commercial Yacht-Master in titanium. After all, it makes complete sense. Professional Yachters and sailors need a light and durable watch. And in many other areas, lightness is a rather great characteristic to have.  

The Yacht-Master is made of so-called ”RLX titanium” which is a grade 5 titanium alloy that Rolex uses due to its resistance to deformation and corrosion, and weightlessness. The great thing about RLX titanium is that it is about 40% lighter, and has more mechanical resistance than stainless steel. Its lightness obviously has tremendous benefits in certain areas and yachting and water sports are definitely just that.

It’s March 27th and the first-ever commercial Rolex Yacht-Master in titanium reference 226627 has been released. So, what is this watch all about?

Well, first off, despite the fact that the watch is made of a new material, the watch will feel rather familiar overall. It has the same design and characteristics as all the other Yacht-Master models. However, due to the use of titanium, it will both look and wear quite differently.

The new Yacht-Master 42 reference 226627 has a 42mm case made in RLX titanium and is presented on a titanium Oyster bracelet.

Case

The case of the new titanium Yacht-Master is different for several reasons. Firstly, the case is made of titanium. Secondly, and this is a first for the Yacht-Master – the case has bevels on the lugs as well as brushed sides. The case is brushed all throughout which, together with the use of titanium, gives it a more rugged and sporty look. Normally, we’re used to to the Yacht-Master being essentially all-polished but this goes the opposite direction which is an interesting step from Rolex in making it much more tool-like.

Moving on to the bezel, the watch has the traditional bidirectional rotating bezel that the Yacht-Master is known for. What is new, however, is the fact that Rolex has opted for a black Cerachrom bezel insert with raised numerals. Previously, Rolex has only used platinum bezel inserts for watches in other materials than gold. The black Cerachrom bezel provides a nice contrast against the matte titanium finish and adds a touch of sportiness.

Bracelet

Those who were familiar with the Yacht-Master prototype worn by Ben Ainslie may have gotten surprised by the fact that the new Yacht-Master was presented with an Oyster bracelet in titanium and not a fabric strap.

Being titanium, the bracelet is satin-finished all throughout and is equipped with an Oysterlock safety clasp – also satin-finished. It features the Easylink comfort extension system allowing the user to adjust the length of the bracelet by 5mm. The links feature ceramic inserts which increases the durability and longevity of the bracelet.

Movement

When it comes to the movement, there are no surprises here. The 226627 is powered by the tried and true caliber 3235 date movement which we are all familiar with. It has been around for some time and prevent that it is a robust and capable workhorse that can perform really well.

Yacht-Master 226627 Specifications

• Diameter: 42mm
• Case: RLX titanium
• Movement: caliber 3235
• Power reserve: 70 hours
• Accuracy: -2/+2 sec/day
• Water resistance: 100m/330 feet

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