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Monday, November 30, 2009

Swiss-Wrist , Swiss-Wrist.com , Swiss-Wrist.com The Rolex Explorer

The watch that witnessed the first ascent of the world's highest peak, Mt. Everest, is the Rolex Explorer. Even today, this watch is one of the most widely sought after Rolex models. In addition, its successor--the Rolex Explorer II--has done very well in its own right in light of its improved functionalities.

Currently, Rolex offers a 36mm sized case Explorer in steel. This model features a polished bezel, Oysterlock bracelet and a black dial engraved with numerals 3, 6, and 9. It is known for its high visibility dial, an extremely strong case, and the ability to withstand temperatures from -20 degree to +40 degree Celsius.

History of Rolex Explorer

The Rolex Explorer was designed to suit the extreme conditions of a variety of different expeditions. It is evident from the fact that the two prototypes of the Explorer, numbered 6098 and 6150, were given to the members of the British Himalayas expedition team on May 29 in 1953, when they set out to conquer Mt. Everest's 29,035 ft. The soon to be released Explorer, model 6098, was given to the expedition member Tenzing Norgay, and it performed without fail. The name “Explorer” was adopted for the model after the widely publicized success of the expedition.

Initial Design

An attribute that makes the Rolex Explorer one of the most recognizable models is its dial. The earliest Explorer, model 6098, featured a white dial with arrow-shaped hour markers and hands while model 6150 looked exceptionally distinct with its black “Quarter Arabic” dial with only the 3-6-9 marked with numerals. In addition, it featured large Mercedes style hands. Later, model 6098 (renumbered as the 6298) was equipped with the famous black Quarter Arabic dial, although retaining the arrow shaped hands. The name “Explorer” appeared for the first time on the dial of model 6150 (renumbered as the 6350), positioned just above the numeral 6. In addition, these models used the “big bubbleback 10-1/2” A.296 movement. The early 6350 dials had a honeycombed texture with “Officially Certified Chronometer” signed just above the number 6. However, the popularity of model 6150 overshadowed the look of model 6350. The former was larger than the latter by 2mm and was only available as a precision model.

Essential Changes and Advances Over the Years

Many changes have come about since the inception of the Rolex Explorer. The first major change came in the form of model 6610--which looked almost identical to model 6150. However, it could be recognized by its flatter back due to the new 1030 calibre movement. In addition, its dial bore the sign "Chronometer." In all the new models of Rolex Explorer, the most visible change was a shift from the pencil shaped hands to the more popular Mercedes-style hands of today. By the late 1950s, the dial began to read "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified". In addition, the bottom of the dial bore Swiss T<25>

Later, Rolex used certain attributes of the Rolex Explorer with a few other models, not easily recognizable as Explorers. For instance, in the late 1950s, Rolex introduced a version of the Air King with model number 5500 which had an Explorer dial. These watches were believed to be targeted at British military officers. This dress watch had a slightly smaller size and featured a 19mm bracelet instead of the 20mm in standard Explorer models. In addition, the dial was marked "Precision" or "Super Precision" above the number 6. Rolex also released the standard Oyster Perpetual in steel or gold with white or black non-Explorer dials. These were signed "Explorer".

One of the most sought after collectible models of the Explorer line has been the Space-Dweller with the model number 1016. The words Space-Dweller were marked clearly on the dial below 12. These watches were produced in limited numbers that were primarily sold in Japan. This decision was on account of the model being introduced in 1963 to commemorate the visit of NASA's Mercury Astronauts to Japan. It featured a new 1560 calibre movement. The second version of the model 1016 was equipped with a "hack" feature in movement. It stops the hand at the 12 position when the winding crown is pulled out to the hand setting position. This makes it easier to synchronize your time with a known source. With a change in movement, Rolex introduced the new Oyster bracelet for its Explorer model, made from solid stainless steel as opposed to the previously folded steel sheet links. This revised form continued until 1989.

A New Explorer Introduced in 1990

At the beginning of 1990, Rolex rolled out a brand new version of the Explorer with model number 14270. This completely redesigned model sported a new movement, case, dial and sapphire crystal. Only the hands and the name were identical to that of model 1016. The attraction of this revised model lies in its white gold skeleton markers with luminous Tritium fillings. It boasts of the very powerful 3000 caliber movement.

Reasons to Buy a Rolex Explorer

All the older versions of the Rolex Explorer, which have been discontinued and thus are no longer produced, are genuinely priceless collectible models. No current Rolex wristwatch looks like those models in terms of style. As a result, these are available at a much higher price than other modern varieties. If the older versions of the Explorer are true collectibles, the newer version is a charm to flaunt for its inherent precision and rugged class.


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Thursday, November 26, 2009

Swiss-Wrist , Swiss-Wrist.com , Swiss-Wrist.com The Rolex Cosmograph "Daytona"

The Rolex Cosmograph is a chronograph that additionally functions as a stopwatch. This model has a separate second hand which can be started, stopped, and reset to zero with the help of push buttons on the side of the case. Considered one of the most popular Rolex sport models, the Rolex Cosmograph "Daytona" is truly exceptional. The term “Cosmograph” was coined by Rolex when it decided to come out with an improved version of its earlier line of chronograph watches. Today, Rolex Daytona has become synonymous with car racing.

Functions of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona

The basic functionality of this Rolex model, which makes it so popular, is its capability to measure elapsed time and average speed with the help of the Tachymeter scale printed on the bezel. To operate the first function, there are two buttons on the side: a start-stop button and a reset button. As you push the start/stop button after unscrewing it, the large sweep second hand becomes operational. Out of the three mini registers on the dial, two of them start recording the elapsed hours and minutes respectively. The third mini register is not a part of the stopwatch function and constantly measures the seconds. If you press the start/stop button a second time, it will stop the function of measuring the elapsed time. Upon pressing the lower reset button, the large sweep second hand and mini registers will go back to their original positions with the former on the reset position and the latter indicating zero. When you press these side buttons, a distinct “click” sound can be heard clearly. The crisper the sound of this click, the clearer
the indication that you have an authentic Rolex Daytona in your possession.

The Tachymeter bezel scale also helps to measure the average speed using the start/stop and reset buttons. Measuring average speed becomes easier if the total measured time falls between 9 seconds to 60 seconds corresponding to 400 to 60 units per hour (speed) on the bezel. For instance, suppose you have measured 20 seconds (using the start/stop button) to travel a distance of 1 mile, and then the corresponding number that you find on the tachymeter bezel scale is 180 indicating an average speed of 180 miles per hour (mph). If you have traveled a distance of 2 miles in 30 seconds, the corresponding number on the bezel is 120. Now, to find the average speed, a simple calculation is involved; since you have covered a distance of 2 miles, your average speed would be 2x120 mph or 240 mph.

Different Features of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona Available Today

The most sought-after Rolex Cosmograph Daytona models today are those offered in 18k yellow gold, white gold, and Rolesor (steel and gold).

Common Features: Some of the common cosmetic elements that you find in all current Daytona models include the following:

  • 40mm case
  • Special screw-down push buttons
  • 31 jewel chronometer movement
  • Synthetic sapphire crystal

However, plenty of options are available in dials and bracelets.

Dials: The options available in dials include the following:

  • White dial with Arabic numerals
  • Mother of Pearl Arabic/Serti dial
  • Black dial with champagne counters
  • Diamond-paved dial with black enamel Arabic numerals
  • Dial fitted with 8 round cut diamonds
  • Semi-precious stone dial fitted with 8 round cut diamonds
  • Meteorite dial with Roman numerals
  • "Pave Extra Large" diamond dial set with 8 round cut diamonds

    Bracelets/Strap: Color variety is also available in bracelets/straps as described below:

  • A brown/pink/green leather strap with 18k yellow gold deployable fliplock clasp
  • A blue/red leather strap with 18k white/yellow gold deployable fliplock clasp
  • Special Oysterlock bracelet with a safety clasp

Rolex Daytona at the Basel Fair, 2008

At the Basel Fair, 2008, Rolex introduced a new peerless chronograph featuring a range of stunning new dials. Made of 18k everose gold, this new model also features an Oysterlock bracelet with easy links.

One of the Recent Achievements of Rolex in Making Daytona

Until 2000, Rolex manufactured the Daytona line carrying imported movements. In 2000, Rolex took the plunge and introduced a new line of Daytona (Model 116520) powered by in-house manufactured Caliber 4130 movement. This new movement has a 72-hour power reserve if the stopwatch function is not used (or 66 hours of power reserve otherwise). This new model also features a special proprietary deployment clasp and new 6-digit model number. With this, Rolex maintained its image of creating movement (as it does for all other models) that is an example of the utmost precision. The movement in all current models features a blue Parachrom hairspring--a patented invention of Rolex. It provides protection from shocks and magnetic fields.

The Early Rolex Cosmograph Models

Year of Introduction: Introduced in 1960, model 6239 was the first Rolex Cosmograph. A year later, another model 6241 was also released.

Technical Features: Both the model 6239 and the model 6241 were powered by the 72B movement, which was imported from Valjoux. As opposed to the earlier chronograph models, which had the tachymeter scale engraved on the dial, these Cosmograph models had it on their bezels. In addition, the tachymeter scale calibrated to 300 units per hour, shortly thereafter changed to 200 units per hour.

Cosmetic Features: The basic difference between these two early models was that while the model 6239 sported a solid steel bezel, the model 6241 had a steel ring fitted with clear acrylic insert. As far as the dial is concerned, all early Cosmograph models were available in the following two dials:

  • Standard Dials: The standard dials were either black with silver registers or silver with black registers.
  • Exotic Dials: The exotic dials were available in either black with white registers or cream white with black registers. This created an interesting contrast not found in other Rolex models.

Subsequent Models of Rolex Cosmograph "Daytona"

Over the years, Rolex came out with the following new Daytona models, each showing some technological improvements over the previous models in some way or another:

Model 6262 & 6264: In 1965, model 6262 replaced the model 6239, while the model 6464 replaced the model 6241. These models were an improvement over the earlier versions as they utilized a new Valjoux 727 movement.

Model 6240: It was a completely new model, also launched in 1965. Its unique feature was its screw down waterproof pushers making it waterproof to a level of 165 feet. It was also the first Rolex Daytona that had "Oyster" engraved on its dial.

Model 6263 & 6265: Introduced in 1971, model 6263 was an improved version of Model 6262, while model 6265 improved upon model 6264. These improved versions featured the new screw-down waterproof pushers. They were also the first Daytona models to use a new larger Triplock winding crown.

Model 16520/16523/16528: These models include the new Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, launched in 1988. While the tachymeter scale present in these models calibrated to the usual 200 units per hour, it was soon thereafter upgraded to 400 units per hour (as can be found in all current Daytona models). The only difference between these models was that while model 16520 was available in stainless steel, model 16523 was available in a combination of stainless steel and 18k yellow gold (two-tone) and model 16528 was available in 18k yellow gold only. These models were powered by caliber 4030 Zenith El Primero movement, which gave them an edge over previous models in terms of performance.

Model 16518: Rolex launched a new Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona model in 1992, which was made available only in 18k yellow gold. It also featured a leather strap and safety deployment clasp. It was different from the earlier models due to its bezel, which sported small triangles in place of small dots pointing to the individual calibrated numbers.

Model 16519: Introduced in 1997, it was similar to model 16518, the only difference being that it was made of white gold.

Rolex Cosmograph Also Known as the Paul Newman and Daytona

In the car racing film Winning, the star Paul Newman was seen wearing a Rolex Cosmograph with an exotic dial. Later, he made appearances in movie posters and some popular Italian magazines, reportedly flaunting his Rolex Cosmograph collection. This publicity fueled the popularity of all versions of the Rolex Cosmograph with contrasting registers (having square markers within), and they became popularly known as Paul Newmans. This Rolex model was already an instant hit in the auto racing market due to their usefulness in calculating average lap speed. However, the association of Paul Newman with this model resulted in a huge publicity windfall.

The model is also popularly known as Daytona after the world famous Daytona Beach in Florida, which has created and continues to foster legendary racers and racing icons.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Swiss-Wrist , Swiss-Wrist.com , Swiss-Wrist.com The Rolex Explorer II

In 1971, Rolex came out with a new adventurer’s watch aptly named the Explorer II, designed especially for cave explorers. This model was a true achievement because it had a feature that could help the speleologists (cave explorers) to know whether it was day or night. Finally, cave explorers spending multiple days at a time in deep caverns, would be able to keep proper track of the time.

Initial Design

The Rolex Explorer II was given the model number 1655 when introduced in 1971. It featured crown guards, a new fixed and engraved 24 hour bezel, and an extra orange colored 24-hour hand. This extra 24-hour hand, when used against the bezel, helped to distinguish day from night by clearly differentiating AM from PM. The 24-hour engraved bezel in this model makes it, essentially, a GMT Master. In addition, it has the same caliber movement as the GMT (1575). It also features a 12-hour hand that can be adjusted to allow changes in time zones.

Major Changes Over Time

The first improvement came in the form of a red-colored extra 24-hour hand as opposed to the orange color in previous versions. In the pitch-black darkness of the deep caves, red was easier on the eyes than orange. By mid 1985, the new Explorer II was launched with the following new features included:

  • Standard 40mm case size
  • New bezel rendering the Explorer II a stylish look
  • Mercedes hands in place of old, large stick hands
  • A slimmer sapphire crystal
  • Black and white dial options
  • Special 24-hour hand and same "jump hour" feature as that of the GMT Master II

The jump hour feature in the new Explorer II allows the owner to set the hour hand forward or backwards in one hour jumps without disturbing the second or minute hands. In other words, the owner can easily change time zones without losing a preset accurate time.

Today, of the several different Explorer II models offered by Rolex, the model available in steel with a white dial is the most popular. Like other Rolex models, it is self-winding and waterproof to 330 feet. It also features an Oysterlock bracelet with a safety clasp. Even for explorers in harsh conditions in the depths of caves, Rolex offers the unique combination of class and precision.

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Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Swiss-Wrist , Swiss-Wrist.com , Swiss-Wrist.com The Rolex Yacht-Master

The Rolex model that became an instant hit in the market for its superb looks was the Rolex Yacht-Master, and it remains one of the most popular sports watches in the world. The first model 16628 was launched in the year 1992 and was made available only in 18k yellow gold. Seeing its surge in popularity, Rolex rolled out the following two new models of Yacht-Master just two years after it was introduced:

Model 69628: This model was exclusively launched for women. Hence, the size was quite small with its case being 29mm and the lugs 13mm. It was available only in 18k yellow gold.

Model 68628: This was a mid-sized watch that marked the introduction of a smaller professional Rolex wristwatch for the first time. While the case was only 34mm, its lugs were of 17mm. It was made available only in 18k yellow gold.

A major development took place in 1996 when Rolex released two-tone (stainless steel and yellow gold) versions of the above two models. The two-tone Yacht-Master for women was numbered as the 69623 and the mid-sized model as the 68623. However, if you want to go for an all-stainless-steel Rolex Yacht-Master, that is possible now as well--but only in mid-sized versions.

One year after the introduction of the two-tone versions, Rolex took one more step ahead in the form of a new model of Yacht-Master that was made available in Rolesium. Rolesium is a combination of stainless steel and platinum, the term being patented by Rolex in 1932. This model was an instant hit in the market, its success even being comparable to that of the stainless steel Daytona. Two reasons behind the success of the Platinum Yacht –Master, especially among young buyers, are described as follows:

  • The stainless steel and platinum finish has provided the watch with a unique look when compared to other Rolex watches.
  • The model is being produced by Rolex in limited numbers--which makes it an exclusive, and even more desirable, model.

The features that you find in a standard Rolex Yacht-Master Oyster Perpetual Date today are stainless steel case, special platinum time-lapse bezel, platinum dial, 31-jewel chronometer movement, synthetic sapphire crystal, and special men's or ladies' Oysterlock bracelet. You have the option of a special 18k yellow gold time lapse bezel as well. While a platinum dial is another option, if you are looking for a watch outfitted with jewels you also have the choice of a mother of pearl dial fitted with 8 round cut diamonds, 1 triangular and 2 baguette sapphires, and 1 triangular and 2 baguette rubies. With features like these, the Rolex Yacht-Master conveys the essence of luxury and class.

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Monday, November 23, 2009

Swiss-Wrist , Swiss-Wrist.com , Swiss-Wrist.com The Rolex Prince

The Rolex Prince was introduced in 1928 as a watch for men who were looking for something distinct to wear. It was indeed a distinct watch for its trendy rectangular case and its dual dial. The dual dial was in the form of separate dials, one on the top and the other on the bottom. The top dial featured the hours and the minutes while the one on the bottom was for the seconds. Powered by the calibre 1036 movement, this model was compared to the Cartier's Tank watch because of its rectangular shaped case.

Rolex Prince Available Today

The Cellini line (dressy wristwatches) of Rolex watches are available in Prince models for men alongside many other unique models designed for ladies. The currently available Rolex Prince gives you the choice of 18k yellow gold, white gold, or everose gold, enabling you to choose the one that fits your style. Although the Prince is exclusively a men's wristwatch, it offers the options of decorated dials as well as Rayon flamme de la gloire dial with Arabic numerals, clou de paris dial with Roman/Arabic dials, silver godron dial with Roman numerals, and many more. Featuring a small second hand at the 6 o'clock position and hand-wound movement, it offers leather straps in black, brown, and many other colors. A gold folding clasp is a common feature of all leather straps.

The Cellini Prince features the standard rectangular case. Its most unique feature is the movement that can be viewed through its transparent case back.

Different Styles Available in Vintage Rolex Prince

For all vintage watch collectors, the early Prince models that were available during the 1930s and 1940s are nothing less than treasures. There were five different styles of the vintage Rolex Prince. Each style was unique in some way or the other. Here is a brief summary of each of those models:

The Classic Rolex Prince (Model 1343): It was one of the original styles that marked the introduction of the Rolex Prince. It featured the standard rectangular case along with the dual dial. It was available in 9k and 18k gold as well as in sterling silver.

The Brancard Rolex Prince: It was also introduced at the same time as that of the Classic model, but featured a more gorgeous design. It was made available in a two-tone 18k gold configuration as well as gold and sterling silver. However, by the 1930s, the Brancard line was extended to include two more models 971U and 971A. The added feature of these two models was the faceted end pieces. While the model 971U was made available in gold and sterling silver, the model 971A was introduced in two-tone 18k gold stripes all over the top of the case. This made it popularly known as the “tiger stripe.” In the early 1930s, Rolex made even more additions to the Brancard line. For instance, in 1934 it rolled out a steel-only version of the Brancard. It had even offered a solid platinum option in this line, which today is considered one of the most expensive Rolex wristwatches.

The Railway Prince: The model 1527, popularly known as the Rolex Railway Prince, was introduced in 1935. It had been so named for its stepped sides that looked just like a locomotive.

The “Quarter Century Club" Prince: It was a special line of Prince, customized for one of the leading Canadian department store chains known as the Eaton company. The watch was engraved with “¼ Century Club" along the perimeter of its top dial. This made it a unique and great collectible vintage watch. The reason behind its interesting name is that this watch had been given as a memento to the employees of the Eaton company who had served Eaton for 25 years. It was indeed a great way to acknowledge the association of people with the company. The case back of every watch had the name and years of service of the individual engraved on it.

The Sporting Prince: It is one of the rarest models of Rolex pocket watch. It was largely used during athletic events--particularly golf. Its unique feature was its hunting case, which once opened, would bring into action a spring loaded mechanism that protected the movement from outside disturbances during the sporting events. Later, the same model was even created as a wristwatch. Since, these models had been produced in very limited numbers, they are really sought after by the rare vintage watch collectors.

The Rolex Prince Heures Sautantes: In 1935, Rolex introduced the H.S. (Heures Sautantes) movement which means jumping hours. All Rolex Prince models that were introduced with this feature had a tiny aperture at the 12 o'clock position in place of the hour hand. The aperture had a miniature wheel to display hours from 1 to 12. Its working was quite simple. When the minute hand passed the 60-minute mark, the wheel would turn with the hour mark jumping into the next hour display. Although this arrangement never became popular amongst the masses, it later led to the introduction of the Datejust aperture in 1945, which became a big success. Rolex also later came out with additional versions that featured sweep seconds.

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Friday, November 20, 2009

Swiss-Wrist , Swiss-Wrist.com , Swiss-Wrist.com A Brief Review of Rolex Turn-O-Graph

The Rolex Turn-O-Graph was launched in 1953 as an adventure watch. Although it was discontinued in the early 1960s due to the immense success of the Submariner and GMT as sport watches that overshadowed this model, it is a fantastic vintage model worth collecting. Today, a similar model still manufactured is the new Oyster Perpetual Datejust Turn-O-Graph.

The Oyster Perpetual Datejust Turn-O-Graph Today

This model displays the date at the 3 o'clock position and features a bi-directional bezel to measure periods of elapsed time. Like other current Rolex models, this model is self-winding and waterproof to a level of 330 feet. Available with a standard case size of 36mm, all current Datejust Turn-O-Graph models feature a two-tone (also known as Rolesor--a combination of steel with either 18k yellow gold, white gold, or everose gold) body. Although the Jubilee bracelet is more common, you also have the choice of going for the Oyster bracelet. The rotating fluted "Turn-O-Graph" bezel is a popular feature in these models. As for dial, you have multiple options such as slate dial, white dial, black dial, and silver dial.

The Earliest Version Of Rolex Turn-O-Graph

The first model numbered as 6202 featured an A.296 movement. Since it was marketed as an adventure watch, it was equipped with a depth rating to 165 feet. If you are lucky enough, you may come across this model with 165 feet engraved on it. This is because very few versions of this model actually bore it, and such a watch has become very collectible. Available with a case size of 40mm, the first model had the name "Turn-O-Graph" labeled on it just below the 12, but in very small print. Subsequently, this was changed into a larger and more prominent font, but this time just above the 6. The most attractive feature of this model was its black rotating bezel measuring the elapsed time. In fact, it was the first Rolex model featuring a rotating bezel--a key innovation noted by history buffs and collectors. While the ten-minute marks on the bezel were of a rounded profile, the minute divisions were of tiny circular shape, all around the bezel. This model also featured a black dial complimenting its black bezel. The dial sported a versatile look with round luminous markers on all the hours with the exception of 3, 6, and 9, which were marked with rectangular indices, while an inverted triangle was used at the 12 o'clock position--a characteristic that has become quite popular today. Subsequently, many other Rolex models carry an inverted triangle on their dials. In the earliest version of the Turn-O-Graph, the hands were pencil shaped. One unique thing about the second hand was a small luminous circle at the tip. Some models in the early 1950s also had the writing "Officially Certified Chronometer" positioned just above the number 6.

The Initial Changes in the Model

By the mid 1950s, Rolex Turn-O-Graph had undergone certain significant changes. The A.296 movement was replaced by the improved A.260 movement. Mercedes style hands were introduced in place of the old styled pencil hands.

The popularity of other Rolex sport watches might have made the Turn-O-Graph models less popular. Today, collectors look for the stylish Oyster Perpetual Datejust featuring the Turn-O-Graph bezel, which is currently produced by Rolex.

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Thursday, November 19, 2009

Swiss-Wrist , Swiss-Wrist.com , Swiss-Wrist.com The Rolex Cellini

The Cellini line is one of the three major categories of Rolex watches (Oyster Perpetual and Professional being the other two). It represents the Rolex line of “dressy” watches. These high class, formal watches have helped define Rolex as a luxury brand. Popular for their charm and elegance, most of the Cellini models feature highly-accurate quartz movements.

Current Rolex Cellini Watches

There are seven types of Rolex wristwatches currently available under Cellini line. These include the following:

The Cellini Cellinium: Available in platinum, the Cellinium is an exceptional model known for its elegance and charisma. Its most attractive feature is its small second hand at the 6 o'clock position. The black leather strap with platinum folding clasp renders a simple yet stylish look. Featuring a hand-wound movement, it offers two popular dial options: black dial and white decorated mother-of-pearl dial. The polished and wide bezel is an added attraction.

The Cellini Quartz: The Cellini line also includes some classy models with quartz movements. Their elegance lies in their extraordinary finish. For instance, men's Cellini Quartz in white gold is an impressive model. Its blue (or red) leather strap with white gold folding clasp matches perfectly with its blue (or white) dial featuring Roman numerals.

The Cellini Cellissima: If you are looking for a dressy Rolex wristwatch in white gold, the Cellini Cellissima will be your clear choice. Available only in white gold and with the quartz movement, it offers wide options in dials, bracelets, and bezels. Its attraction lies in high quality, sparkling diamonds outfitted in either bezel or case-to-bracelet attachments, or both. The white dial or the pink dial with Roman numerals looks impressive. The case comes in two popular shapes: round and tonneau. The ladies' Cellissima models sport leather straps with a gold folding clasp. The colors available for the leather straps are red, green, and blue. The polished bezel and end pieces set with round cut diamonds can be a great, stylish choice.

The Cellini Danaos: This is a unique Rolex Cellini, where ladies' versions are available with a quartz movement and men's models are hand-wound. The elegant ladies' Danaos model comes in pink and white gold with a round case. Featuring a black dial with Arabic numerals, it comes with a brown leather strap complimenting the black dial. The men's Danaos comes in 18k white gold featuring a black and silver dial with Arabic numerals. Its black leather strap with gold folding clasp adds charm to its appearance.

The Cellini Prince: Designed for men only, this model is one of the truly unique Rolex models for its rectangular case and transparent case back, giving you the view of the movement. This model is available in 18k yellow gold, white gold, or everose gold. Like the Prince model introduced in the early 1930s, the Cellini Prince currently available features a small dial at the 6 o'clock position for displaying the time in seconds. Featuring a hand-wound movement, this model offers the maximum variety in dials such as rayon flamme de la gloire dial with Arabic numerals, silver godron dial with Roman numerals, clou de paris dial with Roman and Arabic numerals, and many more. You can also go for black or brown leather straps with a gold folding clasp.

The Cellini Cestello: A wide range of exquisite dials and leather straps sets this model apart from the others. Featuring a round case and hand-wound movement, this model is available in yellow gold, white gold, and pink gold. The brown leather strap is truly elegant, providing a perfect contrast to the white dial with Arabic numerals. The black mother-of-pearl dial with Roman numerals is equally impressive.

The Cellini Orchid: A perfect ladies' watch, this model is a special Rolex wristwatch fitted with round cut diamonds in its bezel, dial, and bracelet. The gem-set case with diamond markers make it easily distinguishable from other Rolex models. The option of leather strap is also available. Featuring a quartz movement, the Cellini Orchid is available in yellow gold and white gold. The white mother-of-pearl dial set with diamonds makes it no less than a jewelry item.

Apart from the aforementioned seven main types of Rolex Cellini watches, there are also many other types such as Cellini Karat (for ladies), Cellini Parantheses, Cellini Gourmette, Cellini Almond, Cellini Zephyr, Cellini Biseau, Cellini Midas-First Clous de Paris, Cellini Ligne Douce, Cellini Classic (pocket watch), Cellini Clous de Paris, Cellini First, Cellini Jubilee, and others.

Outfitted with precious stones, Rolex Cellini line watches are both elegant and stylish. People love them both for their unique appearance and the manner in which they enhance the class and standing of the individual. They truly are distinct from other Rolex models and command a high price. Still, they remain in constant demand because their attainment has come to represent the fulfillment of a dream in high societies across the world. To be perfectly clear, a Rolex Cellini conveys class.

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Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Swiss-Wrist , Swiss-Wrist.com , Swiss-Wrist.com Rolex Accessories: Various Available Bracelet Styles

Rolex watches are known for their unique bracelet style. The bracelets manufactured by Rolex are of supreme quality to complement the world-renowned Rolex wristwatches. Although Rolex offers many watch models featuring high quality leather bands in attractive colors, the bracelets offered with Rolex watches have a special place in the hearts of Rolex enthusiasts.

Basic Bracelet Styles

There are three basic bracelet styles available for Rolex wristwatches. They are:

1. Oyster Bracelet: Perhaps the most popular and identifiable Rolex bracelet style. It easily can be distinguished from other bracelet styles by its broader polished center links set off by narrower brushed-finish links on the sides.

Rolex offers some great jewelry options for the Oyster bracelet. If you want to wear an expensive and exclusive Oyster bracelet option, you can select any one of the following:

  • Super Oyster Karat bracelet embedded with 100/174/270/286 round shaped diamonds
  • Super Oyster Karat bracelet embedded with 100 pink sapphires
  • Super Oyster Karat bracelet embedded with 100 sky-blue sapphires
  • Super Oyster Karat bracelet embedded with 174 small round shaped diamonds and 14 large diamonds/emeralds/rubies/sapphires

2. Jubilee Bracelet: The Jubilee bracelet was introduced in 1945 when Rolex rolled out one of its most popular watch models: the Datejust. The Jubilee bracelet style renders a very stylish look to the watch. You can identify this bracelet by its center link that comprises three separate lines of highly-polished links. On the sides of the center link are narrower links with a brushed finish.

Of all varieties available in the Jubilee bracelet, those available in bark finish are a consistently popular style. Jubilee bracelets also offer jewelry options such as the following:

  • Super Oyster Karat bracelet embedded with 100/174/270/286 round shaped diamonds
  • Super Oyster Karat bracelet embedded with 100 pink sapphires
  • Super Oyster Karat bracelet embedded with 100 sky-blue sapphires
  • Super Oyster Karat bracelet embedded with 174 small round shaped diamonds and 14 large diamonds/emeralds/rubies/sapphires

3. President Bracelet: The President Bracelet was introduced with the Rolex Day Date models in 1954. This bracelet became popular for its powerful appearance. It features polished center links perfectly complemented by the brushed-finish links on both sides of the center links, similar to those in Oyster bracelets. However, the difference between the Oyster and President bracelets lies in the number of links. In the case of President bracelets, there are more links (23 or 24 in men's Day Date models and 36 in ladies' Presidential models) as opposed to the Oyster bracelets that usually come with only 12 or 13 links. This is because the links in the Oyster bracelets are larger than those in the President bracelets.

The different jewelry options available in the President bracelets are very popular for their exceptional beauty. These bracelets fall on the higher end of the price continuum. The cost, however, is clearly reflected in the high quality of precision artistry. Some of the varieties of the President bracelets include:

  • Super President Baguette bracelet featuring 50/74 round cut diamonds and 23/35 baguette cut diamonds
  • Super President Karat bracelet embedded with 204/288/348/443/460 round cut diamonds

In addition to these high-end options, you can also choose from other popular styles such as the President bracelet in bark finish and the Super President bracelet in 18k yellow gold with center links in white and pink gold.

Additional Bracelet Varieties

Apart from the three primary types of bracelets, the following varieties are also offered on Rolex watches:

  • Super President Baguette bracelet featuring 50/74 round cut diamonds and 23/35 baguette cut diamonds
  • The Mesh (Flat) Bracelet
  • The Moire Bracelet
  • The Damier Bracelet
  • The Milanese Bracelet
  • The Chevrons Bracelet
  • The Chameleon (Brick) Bracelet
  • The Chameleon (Mesh) Bracelet
  • The Mesh Florentine Bracelet

All of the above bracelet varieties are set apart from the regular bracelets by their style and uniqueness. As a result, you can wear them as fashion accessories--in the following sizes:

  • Standard Ladies' Bracelet Size: 13mm and 14mm
  • Standard Mid-Sized Bracelets (also known as Boy's Size): 17mm
  • Standard Men's Bracelet Size: 19mm and 20mm

Different Metal Options Available for Bracelets

Rolex offers bracelets in various metals according to the type of material used in making the case of the watch. In fact, the 5-digit and 6-digit Case Reference Number engraved on every Rolex model bears an identification number for the material used in the bracelet. The last digit of the Case Reference Number signifies the material of the case and the bracelet. Let us have a look

DigitBezel Type
0Stainless Steel
1Yellow Gold Filled
2White Gold Filled or Stainless Steel and Platinum
3Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold
4Stainless Steel and White Gold,
Gold Shell, or 18k Pink Gold
5Platinum
614K Yellow Gold
718k Yellow Gold
818k White Gold
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