Michael Kuwabara
A Rolex watch is one of the most iconic status symbols around. Next to an exotic car, a Rolex watch is perhaps the most visible indication of a persons wealth and success. As with any company, Rolex sells more of certain models than others. In this list presented by Chapes-JPL, we'll count down (in no particular order) the most popular Rolex timepieces.
The Rolex Submariner’s robust and functional design swiftly became iconic. With their subtly redesigned Oyster case, distinctive dial with large luminescent hour markers, graduated rotatable Cerachrom bezel and solid link Oyster bracelet, the latest generation Submariner and Submariner Date are firmly in line with the original model launched in 1953.
The Rolex Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II models embody the spirit of the sailor. Inspired by the rich heritage that has bound Rolex to the world of sailing since the 1950s, the Yacht-Master blends function and style, while the Yacht-Master II brings together the finest in Rolex technology to create a regatta chronograph built for yachting competition.
The Rolex Pearlmaster is Rolex’s crowning jewellery watch. Featuring the softly curved lines of the Pearlmaster design, it is characterised by uniquely rich dials and exquisite gem settings of diamonds, sapphires or rubies and available only in 18 ct yellow, white or Everose gold made by Rolex in its own foundry.
The Rolex Datejust is the modern archetype of the classic watch, thanks to aesthetics and functions that transcend changes in fashion. Aesthetically, the Datejust has spanned eras, while retaining the enduring codes that make it, notably in its traditional versions, one of the most recognised and recognisable of watches.
The aesthetics of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual models set them apart as symbols of universal and classic style. They embody timeless form and function, firmly rooted in the pioneering origins of Rolex. The simplicity of an original.
In 1956, the Rolex Day-Date made its debut. Available only in 18 ct gold or platinum, it was the first wristwatch to display the date and day of the week spelt out in full in a window on the dial. With the President bracelet, originally created specially for it, the Day-Date continues to be the watch par excellence of influential people.
A distinctive technological masterpiece protected by 11 to 14 patents depending on the model, the Rolex Sky-Dweller provides the information global travellers need to keep track of time at a glance. Launched in 2012, the Sky-Dweller is a compelling timepiece of revolutionary design that blends to perfection mechanical sophistication and ease of use.
The ultra-resistant divers’ models engineered by Rolex for the conquest of the deep. Waterproof to a depth of 4,000 feet (1,220 metres) for the Rolex Sea-Dweller and 12,800 feet (3,900 meters) for the Rolex Deepsea, they are the result of decades of collaboration with diving professionals.
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, introduced in 1963, was designed to meet the demands of professional racing drivers. With its highly reliable chronograph and bezel with tachymetric scale, it allows drivers to perfectly measure average speeds up to 400 kilometres or miles per hour, as they choose. An icon eternally joined in name and function to the high‑performance world of motor sport.
The Rolex Air-King pays tribute to the pioneers of flight and the Oyster’s role in the epic story of aviation. With its 40mm case in 904L steel, solid-link Oyster bracelet with Oysterclasp, and distinctive black dial, the new Air-King is as functional as it is timeless. Updated for the modern wearer but keeping with the aesthetics of the 1950s model, the new Oyster Perpetual Air-King perpetuates the aeronautical heritage of the original Rolex Oyster.
