Rumors and speculation that Rolex would present a new watch under the “Sky-Dweller” title for Baselworld have now been officially confirmed. Rolex has opened up a new Sky-Dweller section to their website, with full details, specs, images and video to accompany the release. With flight in mind, most assumed it would be a dual-time, which was true. Rolex went farther and included a annual calendar complication as well. Many were also expecting the style of pilot watch to be used for a new case.
The Sky-Dweller didn’t stray far styling-wise, looking like an advanced Datejust II 41mm. While it is a huge surprise to see a new model at all from Rolex, I personally was hoping to see a true pilot watch, such as well-known offerings from IWC and Breitling. The dressy Sky-Dweller is definitely made with the jet-setter in mind, not an actual pilot. With way more jet-setter and business customers than actual pilots (or just people who enjoy the style), the direction they went makes much more sense, even if it’s less fun.
Rolex incorporated 14 patents total, with five new ones, to create the Sky-Dweller. The result is an fresh and original design among the bulk of dual timezone or annual calendar watches. The timezone you’re in is tracked by the main hands, with the second timezone tracked in 24-hour time with the rotating center disk, marked with the red arrow. The months are integrated into the roman numeral hour markers, with small apertures above each one. The number with the one window appearing black notes the number of the month. The date is displayed through Rolex’s signature cyclops lens at the 3 o’clock position. Taking a function from the Yacht-Master II, the notched bezel actually rotates, allowing a quick change of the second timezone. With this being an annual calendar, the new movement, called Saros, takes into account the number of days in each month for you, be it 28, 30 or 31.
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Sky-Dweller in White Gold
The Sky-Dweller case size is 42mm with three versions offered. One comes in yellow gold and another in white gold, both with matching straps. A third is offered in Rolex’s exclusive Everose, with a brown leather strap. While the Sky-Dweller has just been released and not stocked by Luxury Bazaar yet, we are sure to stock it asap. So make sure to check out our new Rolex watches selection, where the new Sky-Dweller will appear when available.
Sky-Dweller in Yellow Gold
Sky-Dweller in Everose Gold
For our full Baselworld 2012 coverage, click here.
