The Rolex Sky-Dweller Brings New Dials And An Updated Movement
The Rolex Sky-Dweller was first introduced in 2012, and the annual calendar has grown in popularity among collectors. It’s a large watch with complications, so it appeals to more than the “normal” Rolex buyer. This year, we have new color combinations and an update to the movement.
It’s hard to believe that the Rolex Sky-Dweller has been with us for over 10 years! Since that time, it has received its fair share of new dial colors along with versions using the Oysterflex bracelet. It has also been available in Rolesor (steel with a gold bezel) and in three shades of 18K gold. The 9001 automatic caliber with an annual calendar and multiple time zones has remained the same, though. This year, there are new dials and a slight update to the movement. From what we can tell, the 42mm diameter, 50.5mm lug-to-lug, 14mm thickness, and 21mm lug spacing remain the same.
A revised movement
Kicking things off with the movement, the only discernable change from the former 9001 caliber is a move to the brand’s Chronergy escapement, and the result is a new caliber called the 9002. The Chronergy escapement blends a higher level of energy efficiency with greater dependability while keeping the current antimagnetic properties. It’s a small tweak but one that’s consistent with the bulk of the other Rolex movements. Other characteristics such as the chronometer certification, 28,800vph frequency, and 72-hour power reserve remain the same.
The Rolex Sky-Dweller Everose 336935
The watch that has many onlookers talking is the new Rolex Sky-Dweller Everose reference 336935. This take on 18K rose gold pairs an Oyster bracelet with a blue-green dial, and the combination is deadly. The press information tells us that this dial color is unique to this model, so you won’t see this showing up on a Day-Date or other reference. Pricing isn’t listed on the Rolex site, but we know that the list price will be somewhere around €50,000.
The white gold Oysterflex 336239
Next, white gold returns to the Sky-Dweller lineup, and for the first time, the metal is paired with the Oysterflex “bracelet.” Bright black is shown above, and there’s a white variant as well. Both also feature a folding Oysterclasp with Glidelock extension. Because of the bracelet, this watch takes on a sportier appearance. As for pricing, this model is expensive at €41,950.
The Rolesor 336934
For the most affordable option, the Sky-Dweller also comes in Rolesor, which is Rolex speak for a blend of stainless steel and 18K gold. You probably recognize the dial above because it’s the same mint green that has become so popular on the Datejust. I’ve seen this hue in person, and if I were choosing a current Rolex, it would probably be a model in this color. It works well here too, even if the dial is more complex. Considering the complicated movement and the pricing of the precious-metal models, this piece comes off as a relative bargain at €15,350.
Final thoughts on the new Rolex Sky-Dweller models
I’ve never given the Sky-Dweller lineup a ton of thought because of the sizing. As mentioned, this is a larger watch, and I’d struggle to pull it off on my smaller wrists. Additionally, while I can appreciate the movement, I tend to like sparse Rolex dials. These newest renditions don’t change anything as far as the layout, but there’s just something about the Everose version with the blue-green dial. It’s a show-stopper! I’m also a fan of just about anything that Rolex is doing with the mint-green dial. Are these watches inexpensive? Absolutely not, but I think they’ll easily find homes.
For more information on the new Sky-Dweller models, visit the official Rolex site.
