Keep Track of Time Across the Globe With A Rolex Sky-Dweller On Wrist
The iconic Rolex Sky-Dweller commemorated ten years of precision and technological mastery in 2022. Rolex designed the Sky-Dweller exclusively for globetrotters. When introduced in 2012, it captured watch collectors and Rolex fans’ attention as the Rolex Sky-Dweller was entirely novel for the brand.
There was no heritage design connection or historical context behind the creation of this unique watch. Rolex made it purposefully cosmopolitan and sophisticated. Eventually, the Sky-Dweller exhibited a brand new appearance and glamour with a more prominent 42mm case and incredible functionality.
Rolex has made some upgrades to the Sky-Dweller unique collection within its short history, and there is still space to make modifications. So let’s explore the evolution of this exclusive Rolex watch over its first decade of production.
The Rolex Sky-Dweller Introduced in 2012
Rolex unleashed the Sky-Dweller in 2012 that surprised the world with its uncharacteristically complicated yet legible dial. However, what makes the timepiece stand out from others is the case size. The Sky-Dweller debuted with an impressive 42mm case that was a bit closer to the usual size of one of the Rolex’s sports models.
The watch was available only in precious metals – White, Yellow and Everose gold. Now the part of the appeal is the watch’s face.
- The Rolex Sky-Dweller is characterised by its complicated dial that features the typical centre hands, a date aperture at 3 o’clock and a small rectangular window indicating the month.
- The dial also sports a red arrow that points to a 24-hour disc located off-centre on the dial.
- It displays the second time zone. However, the purpose of the sub-dial is to show the home or reference time, and the centre hands will indicate the local time.
Every model in the Sky-Dweller series bears this same dial layout, available in different colours and indexes.
Rolex Expanded the Sky-Dweller Collection in 2014
Rolex turned up with three new Sky-Dweller watches at Baselworld in 2014, retaining almost the same features. However, the brand offered a few new dial options like the rhodium dial for the Everose gold model and the black dial for the white gold version.
- Another significant upgrade made to the Sky-Dweller collection in 2014 was the addition of more bracelet options.
- The yellow gold Sky-Dweller sported a leather strap, while the Everose gold model debuted with an Oyster bracelet.
- Rolex also equipped the white gold Sky-Dweller with a leather strap.
However, hard-core Rolex enthusiasts did not entirely embrace the Sky-Dweller during the early years. One of the reasons was the complicated dial, and another was the price tag. While the watch is crafted of 18ct solid gold and packs one of the Rolex’s most complex movements, the Sky-Dweller bore a heftier price tag.
Rolex Made the Sky-Dweller More Accessible in 2017
After five years, Rolex made the Sky-Dweller watch a little bit more accessible by releasing a stainless steel and Rolesor option. The timepiece featured a 42mm Oyster case made of stainless steel and a yellow gold bezel and crown. Moreover, a matching stainless steel and yellow gold Oyster bracelet completed the watch’s look.
The model is called White Rolesor as it features white gold and stainless steel. However, you will also see something different on the dial. The Sky-Dweller from 2017 featured baton hour markers for the first time, offering a much cleaner and modern look. Interestingly, collectors appreciated this significant change in hour markers, which eventually increased the watch’s popularity.
The most desirable watch today in the Sky-Dweller collection is the stainless steel ‘White Rolesor’, especially the blue dial. Moreover, this Sky-Dweller also bears the most affordable price tag in the retail market. However, while its demand is high, the timepiece typically fetches more than its retail value in the pre-owned market.
The Rolex Sky-Dweller Debuted With A Jubilee Bracelet in 2021
The Swiss giant boosted the luxurious appeal of the watch in 2021, releasing the Sky-Dweller with a five-link Jubilee bracelet. The bracelet’s centre links are yellow gold in the Yellow Rolesor model. However, the stainless steel and white Rolesor watches is crafted of stainless steel.
Rolex designed the Jubilee originally for the Datejust, but they later used the bracelet to dressier and more stylish watches. Overall, the Jubilee bracelet looks undeniably sophisticated, and the precious metal elevates its glamour.
So the Rolex Sky-Dweller 2021 collection includes –
- Stainless steel and white gold Reference 326934
- Stainless steel and yellow gold Reference 326933.
Overall, it seems like Rolex would make the most significant upgrade to the exclusive Sky-Dweller collection soon. So just wait and see what’s next.