In 2024, Rolex reimagines its legendary timepieces, igniting a spark of wonder anew. Each creation is a symphony of materials, colours, and textures, a testament to their unwavering pursuit of watchmaking artistry. Rolex pushes the boundaries, blending rich functionality with exceptional beauty, durability with elegance and heritage with cutting-edge innovation. Every detail, meticulously crafted by their in-house artisans, whispers a promise of unparalleled quality. These are not mere watches; they are eternal emotions reborn, waiting to be experienced on your wrist.
1. GMT-Master II
Emotions across time zones
Rolex unveils a new look for their iconic GMT-Master II now nicknamed the ‘Bruce Wayne’ in 2024. The most striking update is the Cerachrom bezel insert, now featuring a unique grey and black ceramic for a subtle and sophisticated look. This two-tone design reflects the day and night cycle, while the green 24-hour hand adds a pop of colour and evokes the emotions tied to travel and different locations.
The new GMT-Master II remains highly functional. Its Oystersteel case, a Rolex-exclusive alloy, is incredibly strong and resistant to corrosion, ensuring the watch can withstand anything a traveller throws at it. This material also maintains its shine even in harsh environments, a testament to Rolex’s commitment to both style and performance.
2. Day-Date
Day-Date 40: A symphony of shades and shimmer
The new Day-Date 40 boasts two stunning variations, each with a unique dial that plays with light and colour. The first option features a slate ombré dial, where the colour transitions from light at the centre to dark at the edges. This effect is achieved through a meticulous manufacturing process and is complemented by faceted Roman numerals and hour markers in 18 ct pink gold.
The second variation showcases a first for the Day-Date 40: a pearlised white mother-of-pearl dial. This rare and luxurious material catches the light mesmerisingly, creating a shimmering effect further enhanced by 10 baguette-cut diamond hour markers.
Day-Date 36: Pure design and deep colour
The Day-Date 36 welcomes two new models that offer a classic and colourful expression. The first version features a white lacquer dial with a clean and expressive design. The faceted, deconstructed Roman numerals and hour markers, previously exclusive to the Day-Date 40, stand out for their elegant simplicity.
The second variation takes a bolder approach with a deep, intense blue-green dial. This new colour is a striking addition to the Day-Date 36 collection and is accentuated by a bezel set with 60 trapeze-cut diamonds, marking the first time this type of bezel is used on an 18 ct gold version of the watch.
3. 1908
Elegance and finesse in motion
Rolex introduces a new version of their Perpetual 1908 watch. This was the piece that undoubtedly garnered the most attention in Rolex’s new releases. This timepiece features a stunning 950 platinum case, known for its beauty and resistance to corrosion. The watch face boasts an ice-blue dial with a rice-grain motif, created using a traditional technique called guillochage. This intricate design reflects light with every movement, adding depth and character to the watch. The transparent back showcases the refined mechanics of the movement, making this 1908 a true visual masterpiece.
The rice-grain motif on the dial is a nod to traditional watchmaking techniques but with a modern twist. The rosette-like pattern centred on the seconds counter gives the watch a unique personality. This design embodies Rolex’s commitment to honouring classic watchmaking while incorporating their own innovative spirit.
4. Rolex Deepsea
Illuminating the ocean depths
Rolex has released a new version of their Deepsea divers’ watch. This is the first time the watch is crafted from 18-carat yellow gold. Rolex has also incorporated a technical innovation by using blue ceramic for the compression ring. This new material, along with the RLX titanium, showcases Rolex’s expertise in materials and colours.
The blue ceramic compression ring is a key part of the Ringlock system, which allows the watch to withstand immense pressure at extreme depths. The uniformity of the blue colour between the dial, bezel insert, and compression ring creates a beautiful contrast with the 18-karat yellow gold of the case and bracelet. The gold used is also unique, as Rolex produces their own gold alloys to ensure exceptional quality and shine.
5. Cosmograph Daytona
Everlasting evolution of an icon
Rolex unveils two new versions of their iconic Cosmograph Daytona. These luxury timepieces feature contrasting dials made of white and black natural mother-of-pearl, housed in 18 ct white gold. The combination of materials and meticulous craftsmanship results in a stunning interplay of colour and light. This release adds another chapter to the Daytona’s legacy of reinvention, showcasing Rolex’s expertise in gem-setting and dial-making.
The new Daytonas also boast a gem-set bezel adorned with 36 brilliant-cut diamonds. This design choice continues a trend from Daytona’s history, replacing the traditional tachymetric scale with precious stones. The sparkling diamonds add a touch of grandeur, making these watches true status symbols.
6. Sky-Dweller
The gold’s glimmering symphony
Rolex introduces the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller in 18 ct Everose or yellow gold, now available with a Jubilee bracelet for the first time. This sophisticated watch caters to frequent travellers with its elegant design and dual time zone display. The Jubilee bracelet features alternating link sizes and finishes, creating a symphony of reflections that complement the watch’s overall look. The Everose gold version pairs the bracelet with a slate dial, while the yellow gold version features an intense white dial.
Rolex uses its proprietary 18 ct gold alloys for the Sky-Dweller. They have complete control over the creation process, ensuring the highest quality gold. By adjusting the mix of metals like silver and copper, Rolex achieves different colors like yellow, white, and their unique Everose gold.
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The images used are sourced from Rolex’s official website, available on the ‘New Watches’ page.