ROLEX June 24, 2024

ROLEX CELLINI- A QUICK LOOK

ROLEX CELLINI

Today we are going to talk about one of the most not so well known model of Rolex, ROLEX CELLINI. The first time that it was introduced to me I didn’t recognise any of the characteristic elements of Rolex aesthetic. It was a pretty gold Cellini that belonged to one of my clients father , a quite rare, beautiful manual winding in a perfect condition vintage wrist watch that made me be curious and search a little bit more regarding its history and frankly was really surprised from my findings.

ROLEX CELLINI History

Cellini was first introduced to the market in 1968 as a dress watch, a watch that you can wear in formal gatherings and it was named after the Buenvenuto Cellini, an Italian painter and goldsmith that lived between 1500-1571 in Florence and is well known for his sculpture of Perseus with the Head of Medusa from the Greek Mythology.

Since 1968 many models have introduced in the international markets, all of them unique holding the tradition of manual winding watches quite rare if you considered the rest sporty looks of Rolex watches and so exclusive and luxury with a variety of gold, platinum and diamond watches. Although not really famous considered other models in that category such as SARU, LEOPARD etc they are playing an important watch among elegant, exclusive and luxury watches and have their own small but yet important audience.

ROLEX CELLINI Models and Reference Numbers

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 6693

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 6693

CIRCA: 1998

CAL: quartz

CASE:18k gold

DIAMETER:35 mm

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 6692

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 6692

CIRCA: 2001

CAL: quartz

CASE:18k gold

DIAMETER:35 mm

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 6673

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 6673

CIRCA: 2001

CAL: quartz

CASE:18k gold

DIAMETER:27 mm

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 3601

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 3601

CIRCA: 2001

CAL: MANUALL

CASE:GOLD

DIAMETER:31 mm

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 5540

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 5440

CIRCA: 2005

CAL: MANUALL

CASE:18K GOLD

DIAMETER:27.5 mm

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 6651

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 6651

CIRCA: 1991

CAL: 6620 quartz

CASE:18k gold

DIAMETER:29 mm

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 6623

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 6623

CIRCA: 1990

CAL: 6620 quartz

CASE:18k gold

DIAMETER:37 mm

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 5240

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 5240

CIRCA: 2001

CAL: MANUALL

CASE:PLATINUM

DIAMETER:35 mm

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 4233

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 4233

CIRCA: 2001

CAL: MANUALL

CASE:WHITE AND YELLOW GOLD

DIAMETER:32 mm

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 4113

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 4113

CIRCA: 1978

CAL: manual winding

CASE: 18k yellow gold

DIAMETER: 34 mm

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 4112

Technical Characteristics

REFERENCE: 4112

CIRCA: 1987

CAL: 1602 manual winding, 19 jewels

CASE: 18k yellow gold, snap-on case back

DIAMETER: 32 mm

Want to learn more about ROLEX HISTORY? Thank you for reading our articles as this we considered to be an ongoing process feel free to send us your thoughts. Drop a line anytime we would be more than happy to get your feedback.

ROLEX June 24, 2024

ROLEX EXPLORER Models

In this article we take a close look at all Rolex Explore Models providing the technical characteristics of the models as well as photos of Rolex Explorer Models.

Rolex Pre Explorer Ref 6150 (1953)

6150 can be described as equally iconic and important in the Rolex Explorer Models collection as 6298. It is considered the earliest version of Explorer that isn’t signed as Explorer on the dial . Calibre: cal. A2960 automatic, 2 jewels, Movement number: 47’718 Size: 36 MM

Rolex Explorer Ref 6350 (1953 to 1955)

Presented in 1953, the first watch that carried the Explorer name in its dial, Caliber 1030 movement

Rolex Explorer I Ref 6610 (1955 to 1959)

One of the first Rolex Explorer Models 6610 first featured in 1959 as the replacement of 6150, with its amazing steel case, Oyster bracelet in 36mm and a black gilt dial, 3, 6, 9 indexes with tritium lime.

Reference 6610 “Red Depth Rating” (1955 to 1956)

Rolex Explorer Super Precision Ref 5504 (1958)

In 1958 Rolex Explorer Super Precision with Ref 5504 was introduced to the market. 5504 is actually identical with 6610 with Cal: 1030, Diameter: 36MM Crystal: Plexiglass, Dial: 3, 6, 9 Arabic numerals.

Rolex Explorer II Ref 5500 (1958 – 1967)

5500 is a tricky watch as it is actually an Air King with the typical 3,6,9 Explorer dial. Available in two versions Precision and Super Precision with a limited number of pieces as it was only produced between 1958 – 1967. Calibre: cal. 1520 automatic winding, 26 jewels Diameter: 34 MM

Rolex Explorer Ref 1016 (1960 to 1989)

Rolex Explorer 1016 was presented in the late 1950s with its amazing glossy and matte black dial, carrying Cal 1560 and 1570, Diameter: 36MM, Dial: 3, 6, 9 Arabic numerals in tritium lume. Discontinued in 1989 and replaced by 14270.

Rolex Explorer I Ref 14270 (1989-2010)

REFERENCE 14270: Explorer I model. No-Date. SIZE: 36mm. DIAL: 3, 6, 9 Arabic numerals. CALIBER: 3000

Rolex Explorer II Nicknamed “Steve McQueen” Ref 1655

One of the most sought out of Rolex Explore Models is the ” Steve McQueen”. The amazing Explorer II that Steve McQueen used to wear in real life therefore 1655 took its name after this amazing actor that was highly connected with him.

Technical Characteristics:

Reference 1655: Explorer II nicknamed ”Steve McQueen”. 24-hour bezel, GMT hand, waterproof screw-down crown, acrylic crystal, CIRCA: 1973, Dial: black, Calibre: cal. 1575 automatic, 26 jewels, Case: stainless steel, Dimensions: 39mm

ROLEX EXPLORER Models — ROLEX EXPLORER STEVE MCQUEEN

Rolex Explorer II “Polar Dial” Ref 16570

Reference 16570: With its unique Polar Dial produced in both Black and White, 24-hour bezel, GMT hand, Case: Stainless steel, Dimensions: 40MM. Due to a mistake in the production in the early series some of the white dials are creamy.

Rolex Explorer II Ref 16550

With 24-hour bezel Hands, luminous 24-hour big arrow hand, the Rolex Explorer II reference 16550 is a watch that was dedicated to those who spent long periods of time in dark environments such as spelunkers. It is considered a predecessor of 16570.

Rolex Explorer I Ref 6298 “Big Bubblebacks”

This is considered as the prototype watch used by explorers in the early 1950s that lead Rolex to create a special line for the adventurers the till now known as the Explorer also called “Big Bubblebacks” due to its case back. CALIBRE : A296 Automatic and Dimension: 36MM

Rolex Explorer Ref 6098

Introduced in the 1950s it was the only Explorer with a white dial and without feature Arabic numerals at the quarters until of the Explorer II. It is also considered as the successor of 5520. Diameter: 36MM, Cal: a 296/

Rolex Explorer II Ref 5506

This amazing watch was presented in the mid 1950s , it was the first time that Rolex used 1530 automatic movement and was available in two tone and gold filled case. Dimensions: 34MM Movement: Automatic Rolex Caliber 1520.

Rolex Explorer II Ref 216570

Introduced in 2015 Dial: Black and White, Dimension 42mm, stainless steel automatic dual time wristwatch with date and bracelet, Circa: 2015, Caliber: cal. 3187 automatic, 31 jewels.

Rolex Explorer II Ref 16570

Dial: Black and White, Calibre: cal. 3185 automatic, 31 jewels Dimension 39mm. It is important to note that in 1995 Rolex with Van Cleef collaborate in order to create a special edition dial that was sold in Sothebys. Its unique dial signed by Van Cleef is making it extremely collectable and rare in the Rolex Explorer Models Collection.

Rolex Explorer II Ref 6299

6299 : The reference 6299, as opposed to the standard 6298, refers to the watch being Yellow gold/stainless steel as opposed to the ref 6298 being only stainless steel.

Rolex Explorer II Ref 5501

Is also considered to be part of the big Air King collection that was presented in 1945 with its fluted gold bezel and named ”Precision” on the dial and the text ”Explorer”. Some of this models have a honeymoon dial making the watch extremely rare and highly collective. Calibre: cal. 1530 automatic, 25 jewels, Diameter: 34MM

Want to learn more about Rolex Explorer Models? Check out our article that describes how everything started.

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ROLEX June 24, 2024

ROLEX AIR-KING Reference Numbers

ROLEX AIR-KING History

The Rolex Air-King was introduced in 1945, alongside the Datejust in order to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Rolex with 4635. This new model paid tribute to the British Royal Air Force that loved Rolex watches , and as it was introduced during World War II it was named Air King. In its early days it was not popular up until the introduction of 5500 in 1957 that can perceived actually as the starting point of Rolex Air King history.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 4635

Made in the 1940s. The first Rolex Air-King, Circa: 1940s Ref: 4635, Dial: Bâton Indexes with Arabic Numerals , Caliber: Cal.10 1/2 , Case: Rhodium-Plated, Dimensions: 33 MM

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 4925

Is the first Rolex Air King that feature the Air-King Moniker on the dial. Reference: 4925, Circa: 1956, Dimensions: 33MM

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5502

Reference: 5502, Circa: 1959, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: Cal. 1530 Automatic Movement, Acrylic Crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5700

Reference: 5700 Circa: c. 195Os Movement: Cal. 1530 25-jewel automatic, Size: 36mm Dial: Blue, linen, or silver dial.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5501

Reference: 5501, Produced: 1958, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: 1520

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5504

Reference: 5504, Produced: 1958, Dimensions: 36MM Caliber: 1530

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5506

Reference: 5506, Produced: 1961 , Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: 1530 Automatic movement Case: Yellow gold plated, Acrylic Crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5500

Reference: 5500, Circa: 1969 Material:Steel/ Gold, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: Cal. 1530 Automatic Movement, Acrylic Crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5520

Reference: 5520, Circa: 1970 Material:Steel/ Gold, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: Cal. 1520 Automatic Movement, Acrylic Crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 6500

Reference: 6500, Circa: 1975 Material:Steel/ Gold, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: Cal. 1520 Automatic Movement, Acrylic Crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 14000

In 1989 Rolex introduced the 14000 that was discontinued 10 year laters in 1999. The original idea was to replace the 5500 with a new model that would offer a sapphire crystal, a smooth bezel and the 3000 movement to its fans.

Reference: 14000, Produced: 1989 – 1999, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: 3000

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 14000M

Reference: 14000M, Produced: 2000, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: 3130, Automatic movement, Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 14010M

Reference: 14010M, Produced: 2006, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: 3130 Automatic movement

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 114234

Reference: 114234, Produced: 2006, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: 3130 Automatic movement. Is considered the last model of the first generation of Air King 34MM it discontinued in 2014 after 7 years only. In 2016, Rolex re -introduced Rolex Air- King with the 40mm Ref 116900.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 114210

Reference: 114210, Produced: 2006-2010, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: 3130 Automatic movement.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 114200

Reference: 114200, Produced: , Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: 3130 Automatic movement.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 6552

Reference: 6552, Produced: 1953, Dimensions: 34MM Caliber: 1030 Automatic movement.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 1002

The 1002 is often quoted as an Air-King model, but it never was – it was only an Oyster perpetual.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 1401

Stainless Steel. Water Resistant to 100 meters.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5701

A less-common model than most Air-King references.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 116900

The newest and current Air-King model. Released in 2016. 39mm case.

Want to learn more about Rolex History? Check out our article that describes how everything started.

Feel free to contact and share your thoughts with us your feedback is important as we are trying to create a unique interactive community for all the watch fanatics.

ROLEX June 24, 2024

ROLEX SUBMARINER REFERENCES

ROLEX SUBMARINER REFERENCES in a glimpse

The idea of creating an article regarding ROLEX SUBMARINER REFERENCES came when I was trying to understand the changes that this amazing model went through over its decades of production. It was really hard for me to understand back then all this details through all this long articles therefore I created a short and comprehensive little note keeping all the important milestones of the evolution of Submariners that would help me understand and identify Rolex Submariners changes over the years.

One of my most loved watches that can be your best friend and a true partner in crime in life. Born to exceed life and be adventurous, be with you in everyday life but also to posh events. A true best friend lets say…

ROLEX SUBMARINER REFERENCES

Important Milestones of Rolex Submariner

6204: First Submariner without crown guards and 37mm case.
6205: Early Submariner without crown guards and 37mm case.
6200: Early Submariner without crown guards and a ’ 3-6-9 “Explorer dial”.
6536: Early Submariner with bigger crown and 38mm case.
6536/1: Early Submariner with a small crown – James Bond.
6538: Early Submariner presented with both the 3-6-9 dial and a 38mm case.
A/6538: 6538 the military watch made for Special Boat Squadron in 21 copies not launched in public, highly collective.
5508: Early Submariner with no crown guards and 37mm case.
5510: Early Submariner with a 38mm case no crown guards.
5512: A new case with crown guards and 40mm, COSC-certified written text on the dial.
5513: Same as 5512 but without the COSC-certified text on the dial.
5517 or 5513/17: Made for the British military known for its sword-hands.
5514: The same as 5513, extra feature gas escape valve for Comex divers.
1680: First Submariner with Date. Submariner text written in red and white.
16803: Two-Tone Submariner. Blue and black dial and bezel.
16808: Yellow Gold Submariner.
16800: Dial with white gold index.
168000: The new version of 16800.
16610: Updated Submariner from 1680. A Rehaut (Rehaut is an inner ring or flange that surrounds the dial, typically located just inside the crystal or the outer circumference of the dial) and with a regular Case .
16613: Two-Tone Submariner with blue and black dial and bezel. Rehaut and a regular Case.
16618: Yellow gold Submariner. Rehaut and a regular Case.
14060: Updated. No date Submariner.
14060M: Updated. Rehaut and a regular Case.
16610LV: 50s years Anniversary Edition. Green bezel.
116610LN: Ceramic bezel. New case.
116610LV: Green Ceramic bezel. New case.
116613: Two-Tone Ceramic. Black and Blue dial and bezel.
116618LB: Yellow Gold Submariner. Black and Blue dial and bezel.
116619LB: White Gold Submariner. Black and Blue dial and bezel.

Want to learn more about Rolex History? Check out our article that describes how everything started.

Feel free to contact and share your thoughts with us your feedback is important as we are trying to create a unique interactive community for all the watch fanatics.

ROLEX June 24, 2024

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE

But first lets identify for those who started loving the watches just now what is the bezel?

A watch bezel describes the outer ring that holds the crystal/ plexi/ plastic glass that protects the dial of the watch. You can find it in yellow, white gold, platinum, steel and ceramic.

The Types of ROLEX BEZEL

The 5th digit in the Rolex reference number tells us what type of bezel the watch has.

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: SMOOTH

Smooth Rolex Bezel, where the bezel material is smooth without any signs or any decoration is considered as the simplest version of bezel. Its clean cut can be found in steel, gold and platinum.Engine Turned Bezel

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: DOOMED

Can be found as smooth and Doomed Bezel and frankly it can be considered quite the same for many BUT the difference is that doomed is a little bit more curved and when we are discussing high end watches this little details can make all the difference.

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: FLUTED

The idea behind the creation of the Rolex fluted bezel was to create a bezel that would screw it down onto the glass and that would protect the mechanism and ensure that the watch would be waterproof.

It was introduced to the market almost a century ago, in 1926 when Rolex presented Rolex Oyster a watch that sealed and protected its mechanism like an oyster, and secure the watch mechanism from dust and water.

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: ENGINE TURNED

The Rolex Bezel Engine Turned is created with engine turning that said it means rotating and it has an engraved or cutting pattern that distinguish them from the other bezels. Rolex Engine Turned Bezel is currently discontinued.

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: BARK

The Rolex Bark Bezel has this distinguish and characteristic finish on its bezel easy to spot and identify.

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: PYRAMIDE

Rolex Pyramide Bezel has this distinguish triangular signs at the bezel that looks like Pyramides.

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: ROTATING

Spotted in GMT Master, the bezel that rotates and in GMT can give you the indication for the divers of the underwater meters.

Want to learn more about Rolex History? Check out our article that describes how everything started.

Feel free to contact and share your thoughts with us your feedback is important as we are trying to create a unique interactive community for all the watch fanatics.

ROLEX June 24, 2024

ROLEX SARU! The luxury Rolex

ROLEX SARU

Rolex Saru is one of the most impressive collection of Rolex, really luxury and hard to find. But what is Rolex SARU and where its name comes from? It is a combination of two amazing gems SApphire and RUby.

The Rolex GMT SARU is one of the most hard to find Rolex models of all time. Presented in the mid-1980s, , gold GMT hand, President bracelet with diamond-set middle links. Very few were produced and they are quite well hidden among collectors as few has surface the market.

ROLEX SARU GMT-Master II 116758

Presented in 2006, this amazing top luxury, unique watch that I had the privilege to have it in my hands, its unique yellow gold case combined with a top sapphire and ruby bezel and a diamond-set case, available both with a black or champagne diamond pave dial. A watch that no words can described it, with a Cal 3186 in 40mm.

ROLEX SARU GMT-Master II 116759

Presented in 2007, this amazing Rolex with its white gold case, diamond-set case, sapphire and ruby, SARU bezel was available both with a black or pave diamond dial. It comes with an amazing Oyster bracelt and a Calibre 3186 automatic.

ROLEX SARU GMT-Master II 126755

Presented in early 2020, rose gold case, diamond-set case, SARU bezel – available both with a black or pave diamond dial, with a 3186 Calibre and an Oyster Bracelet

Want to learn more about Rolex History? Check out our article that describes how everything started.

Feel free to contact and share your thoughts with us your feedback is important as we are trying to create a unique interactive community for all the watch fanatics.

ROLEX June 24, 2024

ROLEX SUBMARINER Models

ROLEX SUBMARINER Models brief history

Rolex designed its very first first Submariner for the British Royal Navy. Presented in 1953, the Submariner was the first divers’ watch waterproof to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet) that gave them the ability with its rotatable bezel to read their immersion time. The Submariner has been ever since one of the most popular and cool sports watch not only among divers but for every watch addict who loves luxury sport watches.

ROLEX SUBMARINER REF 6538

The first Submariner was introduced in 1957 along with the GMT Master II. The modern-day version of the Submariner was based on the GMT Master II. The GMT Master was a supercase that was originally used in military watches and carried the same case. It’s new case was about a mm larger than the originals. The new in-house calibers used in the watches were 3230 and 3235 respectively. The new calibers provide improved accuracy and power reserve. The first version of the Submariner, the 6538, was even used by James Bond in various movies. The Mercedes hand is a popular addition in the film.

ROLEX SUBMARINER REF 6200

The second version of the Submariner was launched in 1964. This was the first model with a date window. The Ref. 6200 introduced a number of improvements to the Submariner, some of which were carried forward to later models. The dial was more popular, with a date window and a cushion-shaped Oyster case. The watch’s design was influenced by the Rolex Explorer.

Materials…

Rolex Submariner has undergone incredible changes over the years, introducing 16 years later since it was presented the gold version (1969). It is interesting to mention that although Rolex prototyped the white gold version of 1680 it never released it for production. And the most important watch was 1680 that introduced to the Submariner series yellow gold.

ROLEX SUBMARINER Milestones over the years

6204 First Submariner A.260 (1953 – 1954)

6205 First Submariner A.260 (1954 – 1955)

6200 Mercedes Hands – A.296 (1954)

6538 First Submariner with Big Crown “James Bond” worn by Sean Connery in Dr. No (1955 – 1959)

6538A Military Submariner 1030 “Coroncione” (1955 – 1959)

6536 Small Crown 1030 (1955 – 1959)

6536/1 Chronometer 1030 (1955 – 1959)

5508 Small Crown 1530 (1957 – 1961)

5510 Small Crown 1530 (1958)

5510 (1958 only – Big Crown)

5512 Chronometer- The Cornini 1530-1560-1570 (1959 – 1978)

5513 First Crown Guard 1520-1530 (1962 – 1989)

5514 Comex Submariner 1520 (1969 – 1977)

1680/8 First DATE in Yellow Gold 1575 (1969 – 1978)

1680 First Submariner Date 1575 (1969 – 1979)

5517 Military Submariner 1520 (1977)

16808 Submariner Date Sapphire crystal Gold 3035 (1979 – 1987)

16800 Submariner Date Transitional model 3035 (1979 – 1988)

16803 Submariner Date Sapphire crystal SS/YG 3035 (1983 – 1988)

16610 Submariner Date Superluminova Dial 3135 (1986** – Today)

16613 Submariner Date Superlum. Dial SS/YG 3135 (1986** – Today)

16618 Submariner Date Superlum. Dial Gold 3135 (1986** – Today)

14060 First with Sapphire crystal 3000 (1988*- 2001)

14060M Updated Automatic Movement 3130 (2001 – Today)

14060M Submariner

16610LV 50th Anniversary

114060 Submariner Ceramic bezel (2012-2019)

116610LN Submariner Date with Ceramic bezel (2012-2019)

124060 Submariner (2020 – present) equipped with caliber 3230

126610LN Submariner Date (2020 – present) equipped with 3235

Want to learn more? Read our next article regarding the full history of Submariner

ROLEX June 24, 2024

ROLEX TURN-O-GRAPH Ref 6202! The model that will blow your mind!

ROLEX TURN-O-GRAPH History

ROLEX introduced for the first time in the public Rolex Turn-O-Graph in 1953 under the Reference 6202, the characteristic of Turn-O-Graph that made the watch stand out was the rotating bezel that measured elapsed time and the pencil shaped hands.

The Rolex Turn-O-Graph ability to accurately record elapsed time made it quite popular among watch lovers and therefore was chosen by the Thunderbirds—the United States’ elite aerobatic squadron in order to help their pilots to calculate the time. For many Turn-O-Graph is considered the opening watch to the main category for Rolex of sports watches followed by GMT and Submariner.

ROLEX TURN O GRAPH Movement

It used a A296 movement later replaced by A260 and had a depth rated at 50 meters. As it covered the same needs as GMT of world traveler in the next few years was totally replaced by Rolex GMT therefore its production years were limited to a decade until the early 1960s. In this decade of production the watches were accompanied by two movements A296 from the beginning till the mid of 1950 and A260 from that point till the end of production.

ROLEX TURN O GRAPH Reference 6202

In 1953 Rolex introduced Turn-O-Graph under the reference 6202. This marked a revolutionary step for Rolex, as the Turn-O-Graph was not only a timekeeping instrument but also featured a rotating bezel, setting it apart from traditional chronographs.

The reference 6202 Turn-O-Graph showcased Rolex’s commitment to innovation, combining the precision of a chronograph with the functionality of a rotating bezel. This feature, initially designed for timing intervals, laid the groundwork for future Rolex sports watches, particularly the iconic Submariner.

ROLEX TURN-O-GRAPH Design

The Rolex Turn-O-Graph’s distinctive design and functionality quickly gained popularity, earning it the nickname “Thunderbird” when it became the official watch of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds aerobatic team in the 1950s. This association added a touch of glamour and adventure to the timepiece, solidifying its place in both aviation and horological history.

As Rolex continued to refine its chronograph offerings, the Turn-O-Graph set the stage for the brand’s enduring legacy of creating timepieces that seamlessly blend form and function. The success of the Turn-O-Graph paved the way for subsequent Rolex sports watches, becoming a cornerstone of the brand’s identity.

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ROLEX June 24, 2024

ROLEX EXPLORER Important Milestones

ROLEX EXPLORER History

Rolex Explorer the watch that every explorer should have, keeping deep in its DNA the danger, the reveals, the conger, the feelings, the joy, the worry, the excitement of many explorers. For me is considered as the watch that keeps inside many feelings and actually keeps inside the meaning of life, to continue our journey when everything is not going according to our plans and to explore new ideas, culture, feeling , smells and actually to explore life in all its senses.

In 1953 Rolex launched a new watch addressed to the special needs of the explorers and the adventurous, the new Explorer. Making its first public debut at Mount Everest and forever linked with the great expedition that was led by Sir John Hunt.

1952, Explorer Ref 6098 and 6150

In the beginning of 1950s Rolex was famous for the extremely reliable, waterproof, under any condition tough and accurate watches. In order to move a step further towards that direction Rolex is focusing on creating a new series of watches exclusively designed to the extreme sometimes needs and conditions of the explorers. Starting its first efforts and designs in 1950 two years later in 1952 it is ready to give its new watch, the Explorer with reference 6098 and 6150, to a selected group of people that they are going to test it under extreme conditions.

At this stage it is noticeable that the watch doesn’t have a name on the dial singing this series and was accompanied with the characteristic Bubble Back case, accompanied with a white dial and the characteristic triangle made from steel or bras pointing 3,6 and nine o clock. The first models of Explorer 6298 and 6150 were characterized as Precision and it was until 6350 that we could spot Explorer at the dial.

Late 1950’s ROLEX EXPLORER Expansion

In the late 1950’s Rolex enjoyed a fast growth in the new markets of Asia and North America. In order to continue Explorer success it created a new model that used the successful characteristic dial of the Explorer but now with a 19 mm bracelet and a 1520 movement that was named Air-King. Also in this period Rolex stopped producing Honeycomp dial, textured dial, for the Explorer.

1960’s ROLEX EXPLORER

In the early 1960s Rolex is changing the mark on the bottom of the dial from Swiss to Swiss T<25

1970‘s ROLEX EXPLORER 1655 FRECCIONE

In the early 1970s Rolex made a lot of changes for Rolex Explore, the Rolex crown logo changed. The first model to be spotted with this significant change was Rolex Explorer under the Reference 1016. At the same period we notice that on models with reference 5500 on the bottom of the dial they are adding Precision. A fresh start for Explorer begun with the introduction of the Explorer II that was launched in 1971 under the reference 1655. 1655 is also known as Freccione coming from the Italian word that means the arrow due to its large and brightly colored hands as seen in the photo below.

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ROLEX June 22, 2024

ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL 12 IMPORTANT MILESTONES

ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL History

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual history starts almost over a century ago back in 1926. Rolex created Oyster Perpetual the first fully protected from dust and also waterproof watch, features quite revolutional from the time been. Rolex Oyster Perpetual took its name Oyster due to its sealed like an Oyster case that ensured that the mechanism was fully protected.

1931, Self Winding Movement ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL

1931 was an important year for Rolex as the Self Winding movement was invented with a Perpetual rotor, it is important to say at this point that till now this is the most important part in the mechanism of every watch as it allows the watch to wind using the natural movement of your wrist and accordingly that allows the rotor spins and wind the watch.

ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL SELF WINDING MOVEMENT

1950, ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL Cal. 645 and 1030.

In 1950 Rolex introduced to new Calibers 645 and 1030

1959, ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL Ref 1002

Its the first time that the watch has a plastic crystal, accompanied with 1560 nor 1570 Calibre.

1960s, ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL Mid Size

In the 1960s Rolex also introduced a new Mid Size Oyster Perpetual in order to cover the needs of its lovers. Midsized Rolex are been described the Rolex watches that their case is between 31mm-37mm.

1964, ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL Cal 1130

Its the first Rolex Oyster that is featuring the Calibre 1130 and has a plastic Crystal with a case dimension of 24.6mm

1974, ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL Cal 2030

In 1974 Rolex introduced a new Calibre 2030 that had 28 jewels and the Hack Function, that gave the ability the watch to stop in order to set the second hand. The watch with this feature can be synchronized with a reference time source.

1983, ROLEX PERPETUAL Cal 2130

In 1983 Rolex is introducing a size increase at 25mm and a new Calibre 2130.

1986, OYSTER PERPETUAL Sapphire Crystal

1986 can be considered the end of the plastic crystal era and the begging of a new with the introduction of Sapphire Crystal.

1995, OYSTER PERPETUAL Calibre 2135

Rolex is introducing a new Calibre under the reference 2135.

1998, OYSTER PERPETUAL Ref 76080

An important year for Rolex as with the introduction of 76080 we can identify the need of Rolex to redefine the identity of Perpetual therefore we can see that it turns back to its history by adapting again the 25mm in its case that now is accompanied with the new Calibre 2235.

2014, ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL 4 Case Diameters

In 2014 Oyster is produced in 4 different diameters for the first time in its history 26mm, 31mm, 34mm and 36mm.

2014, ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL New Case Diameter

in 2014 Rolex is again introducing a new Case Diameter of. 39mm

Want to learn more about Rolex History? Check out our article that describes how everything started.

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1931	First Self-winding watch movement by Rolex.
1950	Introducing Cal. 645 and 1030.
1959	Ref 1002, Plastic crystal, Calibre 1560 or 1570, a 26 jewel calibre.
1960s	Mid size Oyster Perpetual.
1964	Calibre 1130, Plastic Crystal, Diameter 24.6 mm
1974	Calibre 2030, 28 jewels, Hack function.
1983	Calibre 2130, Case Size 25mm.
1986	Sapphire crystal Oyster Perpetual.
1995	Calibre 2135.
1998	Ref 76080, Case Diameter 25mm, Calibre 2235 31 jewels.
2014	Case Diameters: 26mm, 31mm, 34mm and 36mm.
2015	Case Diameter: 39mm .

rolex history

ROLEX CELLINI

ROLEX CELLINI History

ROLEX CELLINI Models and Reference Numbers

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 6693

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 6692

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 6673

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 3601

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 5540

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 6651

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 6623

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 5240

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 4233

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 4113

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX CELLINI Ref 4112

Technical Characteristics

ROLEX EXPLORER Models

Rolex Pre Explorer Ref 6150 (1953)

Rolex Explorer Ref 6350 (1953 to 1955)

Rolex Explorer I Ref 6610 (1955 to 1959)

Reference 6610 “Red Depth Rating” (1955 to 1956)

Rolex Explorer Super Precision Ref 5504 (1958)

Rolex Explorer II Ref 5500 (1958 – 1967)

Rolex Explorer Ref 1016 (1960 to 1989)

Rolex Explorer I Ref 14270 (1989-2010)

Rolex Explorer II Nicknamed “Steve McQueen” Ref 1655

Rolex Explorer II “Polar Dial” Ref 16570

Rolex Explorer II Ref 16550

Rolex Explorer I Ref 6298 “Big Bubblebacks”

Rolex Explorer Ref 6098

Rolex Explorer II Ref 5506

Rolex Explorer II Ref 216570

Rolex Explorer II Ref 16570

Rolex Explorer II Ref 6299

Rolex Explorer II Ref 5501

ROLEX AIR-KING History

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 4635

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 4925

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5502

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5700

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5501

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5504

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5506

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5500

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5520

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 6500

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 14000

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 14000M

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 14010M

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 114234

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 114210

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 114200

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 6552

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 1002

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 1401

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5701

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 116900

ROLEX SUBMARINER REFERENCES in a glimpse

ROLEX SUBMARINER REFERENCES

Important Milestones of Rolex Submariner

The Types of ROLEX BEZEL

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: SMOOTH

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: DOOMED

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: FLUTED

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: ENGINE TURNED

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: BARK

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: PYRAMIDE

ROLEX BEZEL TYPE: ROTATING

ROLEX SARU

ROLEX SARU GMT-Master II 116758