Editor’s Note
Rolex once again commanded attention at Watches and Wonders with a series of notable releases, including an updated Daytona, playful dials, and a completely new model. While subtle annual updates are standard for the brand, this year’s introductions generated significant buzz, underscoring its enduring influence in the luxury watch world.
On the first day of the annual Watches and Wonders fair in Geneva, A-list celebrities David Beckham and Julia Roberts roamed the halls. However, it was a handful of Rolex debuts that garnered significant attention both inside the Palexpo exhibition center and on social media.
When it comes to new collections, the powerful brand, which has led the industry in terms of revenue for years, typically signifies subtle adjustments to existing models and, occasionally, an ultra-jeweled dress watch. Last year, when it launched a left-handed GMT Master-II, it nearly broke the watch internet. Therefore, here are the five models from the entire collection that caused the biggest sensation.
The model features aesthetic adjustments, retouched colors to improve contrast, and, most importantly, a new movement inside. The Caliber 4131 is an evolution, incorporating some technological innovations.
A sober dress watch, the 1908 is characterized by a finely fluted bezel and a thin case with a transparent case back. It can be purchased in 18-karat white or yellow gold, with a white or black dial, and the hand is punctuated with a ring near its tip. Inside beats the new-for-this-year Caliber 7140 movement.
Rolex has been experimenting with Yacht-Masters and GMT Master-IIs in rich materials for years, but a GMT on a Jubilee bracelet made entirely of 18-karat yellow gold feels particularly indulgent.
This colorful bubble motif is unusually playful for Rolex and is certainly very fun to look at. Available in 31 mm, 36 mm, and 41 mm, there’s one for every wrist. Each features the automatic Caliber 3230 movement, developed in 2020.
This angelic model uses the arched indicator to display an inspiring keyword like “Happy” or “Eternity.” The watch displays one of 31 emojis in the date window. The dial pattern is made with champlevé enamel, and the indices are baguette-cut sapphires in six different tones.