On 10 March 1943 Corporal Clive James Nutting, one of the organizers of the Great Escape, ordered a stainless steel Rolex Oyster 3525 Chronograph valued at a current equivalent of £1200 by mail directly from Hans Wilsdorf in Geneva, intending to pay for it with money he saved working as a shoemaker at the camp. The watch, (Rolex watch no. 185983), was delivered to Stalag Luft III on 4 August along with a note from Wilsdorf apologising for any delay in processing the order and explaining that an English gentleman such as Corporal Nutting "should not even think" about paying for the watch before the end of the war. Rolex had initially extended this wartime offer to all British officers prisoners of war and Hans Wilsdorf, who believed that a British officer's word was his contract, was in charge of the program. As an example, an estimated 3,000 Rolex watches were ordered by British officers in the Oflag (prison camp for officers) VII B POW camp in Bavaria. This offer had the effect of raising the morale among the allied prisoners of war because it indicated that Wilsdorf did not believe that the Nazis would win the war. Wilsdorf is reported to have been impressed with Nutting, because although not an officer, he had ordered the expensive Rolex 3525 Oyster chronograph while most other prisoners ordered the much cheaper Speed King model which was popular due to its small size. The watch is believed to have been ordered specifically to be used in the Great Escape, where as a chronograph it could have been used to time patrols of prison guards or time the 76 escapers through tunnel "Harry" on 24 March, 1944. Eventually, after the war, Nutting was sent an invoice of only £15 for the watch, due to currency export controls in England at the time. The watch and associated correspondence between Wilsdorf and Nutting were sold at auction for £66,000 in May 2007 while at an earlier auction on September 2006 the same watch fetched 54,000 AUSD. Nutting served as a consultant for both the 1950 film The Wooden Horse and the 1963 film The Great Escape. Both films were based on actual escapes which took place at Stalag Luft III.
www.swiss-wrist.com
Friday, July 31, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
The Paul Newman Daytona, An Unauthorized History...
It's not everyday that a man gets to meet one of his heroes, but on February 23, 2003, I was one of those lucky few. While attending the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, in Florida, I had the pleasure of meeting Paul Newman. I had been a fan of his movies as a child, and when my obsession for Rolex evolved, I, like many others, gravitated to the Daytona. During our conversation, we candidly discussed Rolex, and his connection to the Daytona. He was also able to dispel a number of rumors, and myths. But first, a little history on the Daytona.
Rolex introduced its first chronograph models around 1937. These watches featured Valjoux movements, and while they saw numerous styles over the following decades, their success was somewhat limited. By definition, a chronograph is a timepiece that, in addition to the hour and minute functions, performs a separate time-measuring function similar to that of a stop watch--with a separate seconds hand that can be started, stopped and reset to zero, via push pieces on the side of the case.
In 1960, Rolex gave the line a major facelift with the introduction of the Cosmograph (model 6239), a Rolex trademarked term which is similar to the chronograph, the cosmetic difference being that the 'tachymeter scale' is printed (or engraved) on the bezel rather than on the outer rim of the dial.
In 1961, Rolex released a similar version (model 6241), and soon these watches became known as the Daytona, so named for Daytona Beach, Florida, home to some of the biggest names in auto racing. Because of their usefulness in calculating average lap speed, the watches were quite popular in the racing community.
Early models were available in a number of dial configurations, including what has become known as the exotic dials. These dials were either black (with white registers), or cream (with black registers), and featured square markers within the registers. These configurations were subsequently nicknamed the Paul Newman models, and were quickly in high demand in the Italian markets—and still are to this day.
How Newman's name became attached to these models has been a topic of discussion in the Rolex community for some time; however, there has yet to be any substantial evidence to back up the numerous theories. One such theory was that Mr. Newman wore one of the watches (featuring the exotic dial) in the 1969 Indy car racing film Winning, in which he co-starred with Robert Wagner, and Joanne Woodward, his wife. It was further suggested that it was his appearance on one of the movie posters that caused the Italian public to become enamored with the Daytona, thus sparking a love affair that has lasted more than thirty years. You might liken this to the overwhelming popularity of the leather bomber jacket after Tom Cruise wore one in the 1986 film Top Gun.
Another theory suggests that the actor was subsequently featured on the cover of a highly popular Italian magazine (again wearing the exotic dialed Daytona), which launched the watch's popularity.
First, let me say that I have viewed Winning on numerous occasions, and while he does wear a stainless steel chronograph in nearly every scene, the watch is never shown clear enough to positively identify the brand or model. Furthermore, the face appears to be silver and the trademark contrasting registers are not identifiable.
After inspecting a number of the promotional movie posters and lobby cards for the film, they too fail to positively identify the watch as a Daytona. Thus, it is unlikely that the general public would confuse it with a Daytona.
When I asked Mr. Newman about these theories, he stated that he was unaware of how his name became attached to the watch, and he didn't recall even wearing a Daytona in Winning. Furthermore, he stated that his first Daytona, and the one he currently wears, was given to him by his wife in 1972, the same year he started his professional racing career. It is worth mentioning that the aforementioned watch is not a Paul Newman (exotic dial) model at all, but rather appears to be a Daytona (model 6263), with black dial and white registers.
During the 1980s and '90s, Newman was pictured on occasion wearing a true Paul Newman Daytona (model 6239, exotic cream dial, with black registers), featuring a black military-style leather strap. However, this is obviously after the popularity of the Paul Newman Daytona had already been established.
As for the theory regarding his appearance on the cover of a popular Italian magazine, Newman said that it is possible, and it does seem to be the most logical explanation. However, I am still not convinced that the appearance actually featured the exotic dial, but instead I suspect that it was the aforementioned watch that Ms. Woodward gave him in 1972. What's more, it is likely that the magazine would have been from around 1972-73, again coinciding with the start of Newman's professional racing career.
So, we're back to square one: How was Paul Newman's name attached to these specific exotic-dialed watches? It is possible that rumors were spread about him wearing one of these models, perhaps in order to boost the sales of said watch. It wouldn't be the first time that a celebrity was falsely attached to a product for monetary gain. Or, maybe it was just an honest mistake—stranger things have happened. Either way, I don't suspect we will ever know for certain.
While all versions of the Daytona with contrasting registers have subsequently become known as Paul Newman's, some would argue that the only true Paul Newman models are described as follows: The 6239 and 6241 case numbers, manual-wind, stainless steel non-Oyster cases, with non-screw-down pushers, and pre-Triplock crown, fitted with either the black dial with white registers, or the cream dial with black registers—featuring the aforementioned square markers within the registers.
While many celebrities have appeared in Rolex's advertising campaigns, Mr. Newman has worn a Rolex for more than thirty years, although he has never publicly endorsed the line. The term "Paul Newman Daytona" was adopted by collectors and has never been officially used by Rolex.
In addition to Mr. Newman's many contributions to film, auto racing, and yes, even the legacy of Rolex, he has become quite the philanthropist. In 1982 Newman and his longtime friend, author A.E. Hutchner, bottled their homemade salad dressing and sold it to local stores. Thus, Newman's Own was born. Now distributed worldwide, Newman's Own has donated 100 percent of its profits, more than $125 million, to thousands of charities throughout the world, including his pet project, The Hole in the Wall Gang, a camp for children with cancer or serious blood diseases.
http://www.swiss-wrist.com/rolex-daytona-watches_c0QQ32
Rolex introduced its first chronograph models around 1937. These watches featured Valjoux movements, and while they saw numerous styles over the following decades, their success was somewhat limited. By definition, a chronograph is a timepiece that, in addition to the hour and minute functions, performs a separate time-measuring function similar to that of a stop watch--with a separate seconds hand that can be started, stopped and reset to zero, via push pieces on the side of the case.
In 1960, Rolex gave the line a major facelift with the introduction of the Cosmograph (model 6239), a Rolex trademarked term which is similar to the chronograph, the cosmetic difference being that the 'tachymeter scale' is printed (or engraved) on the bezel rather than on the outer rim of the dial.
In 1961, Rolex released a similar version (model 6241), and soon these watches became known as the Daytona, so named for Daytona Beach, Florida, home to some of the biggest names in auto racing. Because of their usefulness in calculating average lap speed, the watches were quite popular in the racing community.
Early models were available in a number of dial configurations, including what has become known as the exotic dials. These dials were either black (with white registers), or cream (with black registers), and featured square markers within the registers. These configurations were subsequently nicknamed the Paul Newman models, and were quickly in high demand in the Italian markets—and still are to this day.
How Newman's name became attached to these models has been a topic of discussion in the Rolex community for some time; however, there has yet to be any substantial evidence to back up the numerous theories. One such theory was that Mr. Newman wore one of the watches (featuring the exotic dial) in the 1969 Indy car racing film Winning, in which he co-starred with Robert Wagner, and Joanne Woodward, his wife. It was further suggested that it was his appearance on one of the movie posters that caused the Italian public to become enamored with the Daytona, thus sparking a love affair that has lasted more than thirty years. You might liken this to the overwhelming popularity of the leather bomber jacket after Tom Cruise wore one in the 1986 film Top Gun.
Another theory suggests that the actor was subsequently featured on the cover of a highly popular Italian magazine (again wearing the exotic dialed Daytona), which launched the watch's popularity.
First, let me say that I have viewed Winning on numerous occasions, and while he does wear a stainless steel chronograph in nearly every scene, the watch is never shown clear enough to positively identify the brand or model. Furthermore, the face appears to be silver and the trademark contrasting registers are not identifiable.
After inspecting a number of the promotional movie posters and lobby cards for the film, they too fail to positively identify the watch as a Daytona. Thus, it is unlikely that the general public would confuse it with a Daytona.
When I asked Mr. Newman about these theories, he stated that he was unaware of how his name became attached to the watch, and he didn't recall even wearing a Daytona in Winning. Furthermore, he stated that his first Daytona, and the one he currently wears, was given to him by his wife in 1972, the same year he started his professional racing career. It is worth mentioning that the aforementioned watch is not a Paul Newman (exotic dial) model at all, but rather appears to be a Daytona (model 6263), with black dial and white registers.
During the 1980s and '90s, Newman was pictured on occasion wearing a true Paul Newman Daytona (model 6239, exotic cream dial, with black registers), featuring a black military-style leather strap. However, this is obviously after the popularity of the Paul Newman Daytona had already been established.
As for the theory regarding his appearance on the cover of a popular Italian magazine, Newman said that it is possible, and it does seem to be the most logical explanation. However, I am still not convinced that the appearance actually featured the exotic dial, but instead I suspect that it was the aforementioned watch that Ms. Woodward gave him in 1972. What's more, it is likely that the magazine would have been from around 1972-73, again coinciding with the start of Newman's professional racing career.
So, we're back to square one: How was Paul Newman's name attached to these specific exotic-dialed watches? It is possible that rumors were spread about him wearing one of these models, perhaps in order to boost the sales of said watch. It wouldn't be the first time that a celebrity was falsely attached to a product for monetary gain. Or, maybe it was just an honest mistake—stranger things have happened. Either way, I don't suspect we will ever know for certain.
While all versions of the Daytona with contrasting registers have subsequently become known as Paul Newman's, some would argue that the only true Paul Newman models are described as follows: The 6239 and 6241 case numbers, manual-wind, stainless steel non-Oyster cases, with non-screw-down pushers, and pre-Triplock crown, fitted with either the black dial with white registers, or the cream dial with black registers—featuring the aforementioned square markers within the registers.
While many celebrities have appeared in Rolex's advertising campaigns, Mr. Newman has worn a Rolex for more than thirty years, although he has never publicly endorsed the line. The term "Paul Newman Daytona" was adopted by collectors and has never been officially used by Rolex.
In addition to Mr. Newman's many contributions to film, auto racing, and yes, even the legacy of Rolex, he has become quite the philanthropist. In 1982 Newman and his longtime friend, author A.E. Hutchner, bottled their homemade salad dressing and sold it to local stores. Thus, Newman's Own was born. Now distributed worldwide, Newman's Own has donated 100 percent of its profits, more than $125 million, to thousands of charities throughout the world, including his pet project, The Hole in the Wall Gang, a camp for children with cancer or serious blood diseases.
http://www.swiss-wrist.com/rolex-daytona-watches_c0QQ32
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
SwissWrist Testimonials
Hi Dennis,
I just wanted to take the time to thank you for a very pleasant experience in the purchase of my wifes President from you and Swiss-Wrist. Initially I was somewhat dubious about making such a large purchase, sight unseen, over the internet, and not having any experience with your company. Delighted, would be an understatement, you kept you word on everything you promised.
When I asked you on a scale of 1 to 10 where you would realistically place the watch you indicated a 9.9, as new, I've got to admit I was skeptical. Well, when I received the watch I examined it under a 10X loupe and it was everything you said it would be, near perfect. Delivery by Fedex next day also worked perfectly.
This was the fourth Rolex I've purchased, so I'm fairly familiar with the competition, and I have to say your pricing structure and product availibility is extremely competitive.
Thanks again for a flawless transaction.
David W.
Mount Dora, Fl
Monday, July 27, 2009
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
The Swiss brand Rolex is ever since 1905, when it was founded by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred David, by far the most important luxury watch-making company in the world, with a daily production of more than 2000 timepieces per day Rolex is distinguished by a profound sense of classic elegance and sophistication.Recently the brand created another outstanding collection- the Oyster Collection, from this new collection, we are presenting you, Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, a variation of the classic Rolex chronograph, with a very attractive presentation in everose gold.
Although Rolex wasn’t among the chronograph watches development’s pioneers, as the brand launched the first chronograph models in 1937, and hasn’t received instant popularity.
The Cosmograph was first introduced in 1960s and represented for Rolex an impressive facelift as the Cosmograph became the Rolex trademark for its version of tachymeter’s scale. Moreover in 1961 Rolex released its first Daytona Beach Cosmograph as a way of celebrating the hometown of the biggest names in worldwide auto-racing, the watch progressively grew in popularity as it has came to be associated with the image of the famous actor Paul Newman, who started to wear Daytona models in the late 60s up to the 90s.
Throughout the years Rolex has came to represent sophistication and elegance in watch-making, and Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 2008 follows the same luxurious line of its predecessors. Measuring 40 mm, the timepiece is made of 18 karat rose gold; it has a high-performance shock-absorbing system and through its Parachrom spiral it is able to withstand to magnetic fields without loosing its precision. The case is made of polished rose 18 karat gold; the bezel with tachymeter surrounds the black dial which includes three rose gold sub-dial counters for hour, minute and seconds, all elegantly combined with 18 karat gold bracelet.
Acquiring a special sense of warmth compared to the yellow gold models but still retaining its visual impact in comparison with white gold versions the Rolex Cosmograph Everose exudes class and refinement and carries on the long tradition of high-quality of the most famous chronograph in the world, and for Rolex impassionate customers it can be bought at http://www.swiss-wrist.com/.
http://www.swiss-wrist.com/rolex-daytona-watches_c0QQ32
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Breaking the Placidity: ‘Rowdy’ Wins the Rolex Great Lakes Championship
Man realized his passion for sailing while standing at the helm and steering the wheel of the vessel that steadily churns the blue waters of the ocean heading towards the infinite horizon. Recognized for its excellently crafted watches, Rolex has a proud tradition of supporting a multitude of sporting events around the globe. Partnering various sailing organizations around the world, Rolex has associated with sailing for many decades now.
In agreement with its principal of supporting the pursuit of perfection, Rolex provides its assistance in creating world class events that bring together some of the best names in the discipline of sailing. In the United States Rolex has been partnering the governing body of sailing, US Sailing for more than two decades now and has been assisting it in creating numerous sailing events that enable the quest fro excellence. Among the assortment of sailing events that are held in the United States in collaboration with Rolex is the prestigious Rolex Great Lakes IRC Championship. Collaborating with the Port Huron Yacht Club, Rolex brought forward the prestigious Rolex Great Lakes IRC Championship for 2009. A congregation of the finest sailors in America, the Rolex Great Lakes IRC Championship is held amidst the astoundingly picturesque settings of the Port Huron. The captivatingly blue waters of Lake Huron glisten with the rays of the sun as the sailors descend on its calm shores and gear their spirits to clinch the coveted award.
Tearing through the glassy tranquility of Lake Huron, the sailors on board their racing vessels combine determined aspiration with resilience and put their skill to test. Rolex Great Lakes IRC Championship for 2009 was held on two days from the 11th to the 12th of July in Michigan and featured two distinct challenges. Four one mile windward and leeward challenges were held on the first day of the championship, while on the second day a distance race that was 17 miles long was held. After two days of grueling challenges that comprised 5 races in all the winners in various categories were recognized and awarded for their proficiency in sailing and unbeatable performance. Tallying the points earned in all the five competitive regatta challenges the scores of the competing sailors are added up to determine the winner of the overall competition. The 2009 version of the Rolex Great Lakes IRC Championship saw some fine performance as the sailors bravely fought their way through and tried to clinch the top honors. The commendable level of performance put up by all sailors made it harder to beat the competition and win the challenge out rightly. Based on the overall performance of the sixteen teams that has competed in this two day racing challenge the winner with the most number of points was Van Selph. The entire crew on board the vessel aptly christened ‘Rowdy’ put up a fine level of performance and skippered by the talented Van Selph sailed forward to victory. The Van Selph team was adjudged as the overall winners of the Rolex Great Lakes IRC Championship and was awarded for their great ability.
This world class racing regatta presented by Rolex, proved to be second to none and brought about an amazing level of competition highlighting the capacity of human will and their constant effort in attaining perfection.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
The Famous Rolex Submariner Anchors
Sometime in 2005, a long standing Rolex tradition came to an end: Rolex stopped shipping the famous Rolex Anchor with the Submariner and its variants. For many years, Rolex included a small key-ring like, miniature anchor with every Submariner. Much has been written about these anchors over the years - no one is sure exactly what these little trinkets included with the Submariner are good for. Some collectors use them as Christmas tree ornaments, while others hang them from necklaces or car rear view mirrors. They don't seem to serve any useful purpose, which is perhaps why Rolex after decades is no longer producing them. Who knows? Maybe in the next 10-20 years they'll be a coveted Rolex collectors item. Here's a guide to the anchors which were last produced by Rolex:
The standard Submariner anchor: The silver anchor below is the most common, as it was included with the stainless steel and two tone Submariner variants - note the water resistance rating. The rating is shown in meters on one side, and in feet on the other.
Now here we have the final anchor variant - it's gold plated (painted?) and is included only with the all gold Submariner models. Note the water resistance rating is consistent with the Submariner at 300 meters.
The standard Submariner anchor: The silver anchor below is the most common, as it was included with the stainless steel and two tone Submariner variants - note the water resistance rating. The rating is shown in meters on one side, and in feet on the other.
Now here we have the final anchor variant - it's gold plated (painted?) and is included only with the all gold Submariner models. Note the water resistance rating is consistent with the Submariner at 300 meters.
One of the biggest questions for Rolex collectors at this point is, "how do I know if my watch should or should not have an anchor included?" Unfortunately, there's no easy answer. The transition seems to have taken place mid-way through the F series production, and perhaps coincided with the introduction of the new Rolex box and packaging released around the same time. A good, general rule of thumb is, if your Rolex Submariner or Sea-Dweller has the new style packaging, then it probably won't have the anchor.
It should be noted that vintage Submariners with a water resistance rating of only 200 meters came with anchors that had "200 meters water resistant" printed on them.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Tutorial on Deploying the Rolex Dive Suit Extension Link
Here's a dirty little secret that many Rolex salespeople and owners alike won't tell you - they haven't the foggiest idea on how to deploy or release the dive suit extension in the Rolex Oyster bracelet. Instructions aren't well documented in the Rolex watch manual, and it's just not an intuitive design (like on the Omega Seamaster bracelet). Unless you've done it before, you're not likely to figure it out on your own. It took me a while to figure it out too (I saw it explained on a discussion forum). So, I decided to put together this little tutorial which will hopefully shed some light on the dive suit extension link.
If you remove your Rolex watch, and peer into the inside of the clasp, you should see a series of bracelet links. NOTE: Only Rolex dive watches like the Submariner and the Sea-Dweller will have a dive suit extension link built into the clasp. The other sport models to not. Now, most people assume that if they pull on these bracelet links , the dive suit extension will simply pop out - that assumption is incorrect. If you look at the links on the inside of the clasp, one will have a small circle printed on it. Press on this circle with your thumb - if done properly you'll hear an audible "pop" and you'll feel the links slip upward. Here's a photo that should help:
Lightly pull on the three links, and you'll find they are no longer fixed to the inside of the clasp. If you've done the above step properly, the bracelet should now look like this:
If you now grasp the links that are now opened and away from the clasp, and firmly pull away from the clasp, you should hear and feel a second "pop" as the flat portion of the dive suit extension is freed from its fixed position inside the clasp. If done properly, the bracelet and clasp should appear like this:
You can now put the watch back on, fastening the clasp as you normally would, and you'll see that the diameter of the bracelet has increased significantly. This is to allow the watch to fit comfortably on your wrist when diving by accommodating the added girth normally accompanying a dive suit.
You can easily return the clasp back to it's original configuration by folding the dive suit extension back toward the clasp, and firmly pressing at both ends of the extension, so that top and bottom "pop" back into their fixed positions.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Fun Rolex Facts
- Ian Flemming's James Bond character wore a Rolex Oyster Perpetual in the series of spy novels.
- In the movies, Sean Connery, Roger Moore, and Timothy Dalton all wore different Rolex models during their time as James Bond. The Rolex Submariner was the iconic choice, but Moore also wore Rolex Cellini.
- Rolex created the first waterproof watch case, the first wristwatch with a date on the dial, and the first watch to show two timezones at once.
- Rolex is associated with many athletic events including U.S. and international sailing regattas, golf, sportscar and road racing, fishing and angler sports, and equestrian events.
- Rolex recognizes visuary individuals through the Rolex Institute, which honors and supports significant contributions in science, culture, education, and the arts.
- Winners of the Rolex Awards for Enterprise include Alexandra Lavrillier for setting up a nomadic school for the Evenks of Sibera and Brad Norman who developed a photo database that gathers information about whale sharks.
- Rolex relies on 4,000 watchmakers in over 100 countries.
- Chapter 3 of the film Pulp Fiction is called "The Gold Watch." The watch is a gold Rolex.
- Dustin Hoffman exchanges a Rolex for loose change in the 1976 film Marathon Man. (We don't recommend this.)
- A Rolex watch reatains a higher percentage of its cost than any other production Swiss watch.
- Rolex donates a large portion of the profits made through the sales of its watches to charitable causes.
Friday, July 17, 2009
THE EXPLORER
After the two-tone Datejust, the Explorer is one of the most easily recognizable of all Rolex models. With its black dial, large luminous triangle marker at 12, and luminous arabic numerals for the other quarters, it is the perfect mixture of a sport and a dress watch. It seems to have been around as long as there have been Rolexes, but that is not exactly true. However, as with most legends, finding the truth is never simple.Before we get into the history of the Explorer it is perhaps first worth defining the watch itself. The generally accepted definition al an Explorer is that ii is any watch with the dial described above. Unfortunately, one often encounters watches with the word "Explorer" proudly printed on their dial, which bear no resemblance to this description. More rarely, one sees an Explorer dial on other Rolex models. In this discussion of the Explorer we are exercising our writers' prerogative and choosing to include all of the above as Explorers.
The generally accepted origin of the Explorer is that it was first designed and made in honor of Edmund Hilary and Tenzing Norgay, who, on May 29, 1953, were the first to reach the summit of Everest and who did so wearing Rolex wristwatches. The only problem with this hypothesis is that it can not possibly be true. The climbers on Everest were, in fact, wearing Explorers. so the watch had to have been introduced before the climb and not after. One of the watches worn on that expedition was auctioned by Sotheby's London on July 19, 1988 as lot 117, (see photograph on page 243). As you can see the watch was a classic early Explorer down to the "Mercedes" hands, except for the absence of the word "Explorer" on the dial. The shape of the watch land the description by Sotheby's as a "Bubble Back" Explorer) leads us to believe the watch is in fact a model 6350. This hypothesis is strengthened by the photograph on page 246 which shows another model 6350 with art almost identical dial. The main difference between the two is that the Sotheby watch lacks "Explorer" but has the word "Precision" above the 6, whereas the other watch has the word "Explorer" but lacks either "Precision" or "Officially Certified Chronometer" above the 6. Instead it has a British military marking in their place, as well as on the case back. In the early 1950s, the period these watches were made, Rolex often stamped the in- side of the case back with the date of manufacture. The military 63,50, marked Explorer, shows the manufacture date as IV 53, meaning the 4th month of 1953. As stated above, Everest was conquered on the May 29, 1953. Using these facts, it seems likely that Explorers were in production prior to the conquest of Everest. It is also worth noting that the name "Explorer" was registered in Geneva on the January 26, 1953, obviously well before the conquest of the world's highest mountain.
While it is true that many of the members of the successful Everest expedition were issued with Rolex watches (see the advertisement on page 243), the embarrassing fact for Rolex was that only one of the two climbers at the top was wearing a Rolex. This watch, worn by Tenzing Norgay, is now in the Rolex Museum in Geneva. Although Rolex was an official supplier to the Everest expedition, so was the English watch company Smith's and Edmund Hilary chose to wear a Smith's watch (see the advertisement below). In the end it was the Rolex publicity machine that triumphed. Interestingly, due to a pact made by Tenzing and Hilary, we will never know which watch was first at the summit; both climbers have always said that it mattered nothing who was first.
The real origins of the Explorer are revealed by its name. It was designed for explorers and so it had a high visibility dial. an extra strong case, and, on request, it could even be lubricated with a special oil which could withstand temperatures of between -20°C and +40° without changes in its viscosity. As such it was used by many expeditions both before and after the successful Everest expedition.
The look of the Explorer is all about the dial, which is a mixture of a number of previously used styles. The large triangle at "12" was first used by the company on the mixed Roman and Arabic dial of the early 1940s. The large arabic numerals for the Quarters and bars for the remainder are seen on many of the very first model cushion Oysters. Despite this somewhat mixed parentage, the dial has taken on an identity of its own and can never be confused with any other.
These first Explorers (6350 models) used the "big bubbleback" 10-1,/2"' A296 movement. Most of the other 63,50 models to have surfaced do not have the classic "Mercedes'' hands. In- stead they have heavily luminized versions of the standard parallel hands of the period. While the sweep seconds hand is very strange, it looks similar to the current hand having a large circular luminous insert. Closer examination reveals that this circular insert is at the tip of the hand, not 4 mm from the tip as now. Most of the early 6350 dials are also unusual in that they are "honeycomb" textured (how the company managed to print on this surface is a mystery) and are signed as "Officially Certified Chronometer." It is difficult to know how successful this model was, for it is not exactly a common piece and seems to have been replaced by the 6150 model within a year or so. Powered by the same movement, the 6150 was distinguishable from the 6350 by being 2mm. larger and was only available as a Precision model. Not all the 6150s were classic Explorers. The one shown in the photograph on page 249 is unusual in that. while it bears the normal reference number, the dial is previously unknown. The 61,50 was made until 1959 when it was replaced by the 6610, which appears identical, but in fact can be identified by its flatter back. a consequence of using the newer 1030 calibre movement". The dial of the 66 ill is signed "Chronometer. " The simplest method of recognizing any of the early Explorers is by looking at the dial. Although they are all steel watches, all of the printing on the dials (the minute track, the Rolex logo and the model name) is in gold.
During these early days of the Explorer, Rolex was unsure of the model's potential. As a result the name was affixed to a number of watches not immediately recognizable as Explorers. Today the name and the look are so intimately entwined it seems ridiculous to apply the name to watches which were so obviously not what we would call Explorers. But it happened, and the results are some of the rarest Explorer models known. There were two distinct variations on the theme and they seem to have been aimed at two distinct markets. The first was the so-called "Air-King" Explorer. This was an Explorer bearing the 5500 model number usually applied to the Air-King, but with an Explorer dial that is marked "Precision" rather than the "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified" we would expect to see. There has been some doubt that these watches are real, for, if we examine the watch closely, we can see that the dial is smaller than a normal Explorer dial. But the receipt from Rolex, shown on the previous page, lists a 5500 Explorer. With this information we think we can validate these as genuine Rolex pieces. A closer examination of all of these models which have turned up with original paperwork reveals one further interesting fact. All of them were purchased from N.A.A.F.l. (the British equivalent of the PX) in the middle or far east. Whether or not the model was made as a comparatively inexpensive military style watch for officers to purchase with their own money is just one more question waiting to be resolved.
The second variation on the theme are "dress Explorers." These are standard Oyster Perpetuals in steel or gold with white (or more rarely, black) non-Explorer dials featuring gold markers and hands, but signed "Explorer" on the dials. Seen in both date and non-date forms, these watches all seem to have been sold in the North American market. The Explorer Date, shown bears a model number 5700, previously unseen on any other Explorer. The non-date model is a model 5504, which interestingly is more often seen on Explorers with the standard dial. We have even seen a gold capped Explorer with a Tiffany dial with the reference no 5510. The earliest one of these to turn up has been a model 6298, having the manufacture date of ii1 53, and bearing the phrase "Self Winding" more often seen on Tudor watches. It seems that these watches were made in the 1950s or 1960s when Rolex was unsure if the Explorer would succeed or not, and attempted to increase the popularity of the watch by broadening the line. When the mainstream Explorer began to sell it seems that these "piggyback" models were with- drawn. This is one more example of the bizarre fact that it is a company's failures that become the most desirable and valuable items in any collection.
Perhaps the strangest "Explorer" model is not really an Explorer, but a Submariner. It is a model 5513 non-date, non- chronometer watch with a classic "Explorer" style dial. The watch seems only to have been sold in the UK and only for a short period in the 1960s. The catalog shown bears the date 1966 and was a catalog only for the British market. One of these watches has surfaced with a hacking seconds movement (which would date it after 1972), also in the UK.
The introduction of the 6610 model in 1959 gave us the Explorer in its most recognizable form. Only in production for five years, the 6610 differed from the 1016 that replaced it in calibre; the 6610's calibre 1030 was replaced with the more modern calibre 156049. While the cases of the two watches looked almost identical, the new model was now guaranteed waterproof to a pressure of 10atm rather than 5atm of the 6610.
The 1016 Explorer was the longest running of all the models, being in production from 1963 right through to 1989. During this period it did not, however, remain unchanged. The first model (in production from the start to around 1975) used the basic calibre 1560, but, as is the general Rolex policy, there were certain updates and modifications. While there are some watches signed Explorer that do not look like regular Explorers, the 1016 also exists with another name on the dial: "Space Dweller." The model was first introduced into the Japanese market in 1963, just after a visit to Japan by the Mercury astronauts. A trial run of Space Dwellers was made to honor these men, who were (at that time) seen as the ultimate explorers. The watch was not a major seller, either in Japan or elsewhere, and very few of the watches so signed have ever surfaced.
The second version of the 1016 was really the second version of the 1560 calibre (now renamed 1570), because the major recognizable difference is in the movement. The "hack" feature, stops the second hand when the winding crown is pulled out to the hand setting position. By stopping the hand at the "12" position, it is possible to synchronize your time with that of a known source, a radio or telephone time signal for example.
Simultaneously with the movement change, Rolex introduced the new Oyster bracelet. It had links machined from solid steel, instead of the folded sheet steel of earlier bracelets. In this revised form the Explorer continued through to 1989, when, to the astonishment of the Rolex retailers, it was removed from the new catalog. It was only six months before a new very heavily revised Explorer arose from the ashes of the 1016. The new model, bearing the model designation 14270, sported a new case, dial, movement, and glass. It seemed as if the hands and the name were the only things carried over from the 1016 Almost thirteen years after Rolex had first introduced the sapphire crystal, the Explorer was finally fitted with one. Under this new crystal, the dial featured white gold skeleton markers with luminous tritium fillings; these replaced the previous painted dial markers. Under the dial was the very latest fast beat calibre 3000. These modifications brought the Explorer in line with all other Rolex models and because the cosmetics of the new watch were so different, they sent the prices of the older models in the collectors market on an upward spiral. The result is that, at this writing (early 1996), collectors are paying more for the older models than the retail price of the new one.
The other Explorer is the Explorer Il. Introduced in the early 1970s as model 1655, it is essentially a GMT-Master with a fixed bezel. Using the same calibre 1575 movement as a GMT- Master, it also had a fourth hand which rotated once every 24 hours, however on the Explorer II the hour was read from this from a fixed, engraved 24 hour steel bezel. The watch was introduced as being especially useful for the speleologist ( or cave explorer), who, Rolex claimed "soon loses all notion of time: morning, afternoon, day, or night. " For these intrepid souls Rolex developed the watch which would tell them whether the "2" on the dial was 2:00 a.m. or 2 :00 p-m. (14:00 hrs). This may well be true, and perhaps cave dwellers are more susceptible to losing track of time than others. We would suggest, however, that the demand for a watch specifically targeted at speleologists would find a tiny market, and that even its limited popularity was due to its acceptance by others who work in civilian and 24 hour time systems, such as pilots and air traffic controllers. The watch went through two styles. The first, made for only three years, used an orange 24 hour hand, and the following model, made until 1985, used a red one. The 1655 Explorer II and the 1019 Milgauss are the only Rolex models which use hands that are used by no other model.
We used the phrase "limited popularity" above intentionally for this watch always was one that was never very widely distributed. It was not really popular until 1991, five years after it was re-launched with a sapphire glass and the same movement as the GMT-Master II. This allowed the owner of the watch to set the hour hand backwards or forwards in one hour jumps without disturbing the second and minute hands. This facility allowed the owner to change time zones without losing a pre- set accurate time.
The new watches, like the first model Explorer II's had the bezel numbers enameled in black, but the very first of the new model Explorer lls had very unusual red bezel enameling. These early white dial models had the tritium dots and the hands out- lined in white gold, while the following models had them out- lined in black.
The name, Explorer, and its whole history of promotional material have made much of the watch's ability to resist hazards and we are sure that this reflected glory is the reason for the watch's continued popularity. In the end wouldn't we all like to be thought of as "Explorers"?
Swiss Wrist FAQs
I NEVER MADE A LARGE PURCHASE ONLINE. WHY PICK SWISS WRIST?
Swiss Wrist Watch Co. is one of the largest sources for pre-owned high-end wristwatches for both dealers within the trade as well as the general public. We have taken the time to create a web environment that caters to our customers by allowing them to comfortably do business from the privacy of their homes. We want to offer our customers a wide variety of timepieces at the most competitive prices available. In addition to this we want them to feel secure purchasing from us. We are one of a handful of online high-end wrist watch merchants that are capable of processing your credit card for your entire purchase. This allows "first time buyers" to feel more secure in making a large purchase as they have an added layer of security via their credit card company. Second, unlike many companies that only allow an exchange, we allow a full refund for any watch purchased from us that a customer is not pleased with. We want to earn your repeat business and realize that it behooves us to make it easy to do business through our site. If you are not 100% satisfied with any piece you purchase through our website you may return it within three days of receipt for a full refund. In order To enhance your online shopping experience, we have spent the time and money to have actual pictures of watches displayed on our site which is the next best thing to being able to touch the piece. We encourage and are ultra responsive to both e-mails and calls concerning your questions. We want to though roughly answer any questions you have in a "no pressure" manner because we realize buying a world class watch is a big decision. You may call us toll free: 877-738-3811 and one of our watch specialists will be glad to answer your questions on any piece we have in stock or any piece you may be interested in that you do not see. Through three generations in the watch and jewelry trade, we have the wisdom to know that when you purchase a watch from us and become a happy customer, in all likelihood you will also become a return customer who refers others as well.
WOW! GREAT PRICES, HOW CAN YOU SELL WAY UNDER RETAIL?
Swiss Wrist has built the best connections in the business affording us the ability to buy from dealers at the highest level of the industry. Through this we can buy in the largest quantities while getting the best pricing. We price most of our watches to sell. We buy low and sell low, making our money on sales volume.. Being that we are not an Authorized Dealer, we are able to offer our customers rock bottom pricing without being subject to any manufacturers price controls or policies.
When buying a New or "Never Worn" watch from us, the only difference between us and the "authorized retailer" is ours is backed by our two year warranty versus the manufacturers warranty. Should the warranty run out and you need service, the manufacturer will help you as if you bought it through one of their authorized dealers or you can take advantage of our won in-house service for life at industry cost price.
DO YOU HAVE A PHYSICAL STORE? CAN I COME IN TO VIEW MY WATCH?
Swiss Wrist does not have a retail or "brick & mortar" sales location. We hold our entire inventory in special merchandise/warehouse location and all sales are handled through our corporate office. This business style allows us to keep overheard to a minimum, which in turn enables us to continue offering the lowest possible pricing an all watches. For insurance and Security reasons we cannot have any of our clients come view or purchase a watch in person.
ARE YOU AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR ANY TIMEPIECE YOU SELL?
Swiss-Wrist is not an official authorized dealer of Rolex or any other brand we sell, whether on our site or special ordered. Being that we are not an Authorized Dealer, we are able to offer our customers rock bottom pricing without being subject to any manufacturers price controls or policies. When you buy a watch from Swiss Wrist, you will receive all paperwork documenting all necessary information. The Serial and Reference numbers will be listed together with an " Authenticity Document" from Swiss Wrist detailing the steps taken to ensure that you watch is Fully Authentic and in perfect running order. We will also issue a One or Two Year Warranty for every watch we sell, covered exclusively by Swiss Wrist. There will also be paperwork present, which confirms this Warranty and the corresponding coverage date.
WHAT IS YOUR SHIPPING METHOD AND COST?
Swiss-Wrist ships via Next Day Air UPS or FEDEX Insured Overnight Signature Required. You will receive your item(s) the morning after we ship. Swiss Wrist offers Free Next Day Air Delivery, there is absolutly no cost for shippping.
WHAT IS MEANT BY "PERFECT LIKE NEW" AND UNUSED UNWORN?
Perfect Like New (Day One Condition) watches are pre-owned timpieces that are purchased by Swiss Wrist in already prisitne and immaculate condition. This refers to the Cosmetic as well as the watch's mechanical condition. We then inspect these timepieces to ensure that they are all 100% authentic and meet our standards. These watches are so perfect that in most cases they can even pass for "Brand New". These watches have no scratches or markings, movments are 100% and the watch bracelets have miniscule amounts of stretch.
Unused or Unworn watches are timepieces which have never been worn or sold to a End User or Purchaser. We make bulk purchases from large national jewelery chains who wish to unload their extra or unsold merchandise. Many of these watches include watches that where on display at these respective jewlery stores. Therefore some of these timepieces may have been handeled by customers wishing to view these watches and how they look on their wrists. These watches are perfect in every way and as close to brand new as possible.
DO YOU CHARGE SALES TAX ON YOUR WATCHES?
We are only required to collect sales tax from those who have their purchases shipped within the State of Florida.
DO ALL WATCHES COME WITH THEIR SERIAL NUMBERS?
Every timepiece sold by Swiss-Wrist will have its Serial and Referance numbers in place and and visable. We do not remove serial numbers in any shape or form. Swiss Wrist looks down quite negatively upon this practice, we are a reputable watch dealer . We sell only Authentic Products in top level condition.
HOW CAN I MAKE SURE THAT MY WATCH IS AUTHENTIC?
Swiss Wrist has been in the Watch & Jewelery Industry for over two and half decades. We have established contacts with the top watch dealers in the nation. Every single watch we buy and sell is coming from reputable sources. Every customer has three days from when they receive their watch to ensure that they are 100% satisfied with their purchase. Therefore our " Three Day Satisfaction Guarantee" allows for ample time, so that our clients can take their purchases to a jeweler to be authenticated and inspected.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECIEVE MY WATCH?
So long as your order is received and verified before 3:00 PM EST, and the watch is in stock, your order will ship out the same day, if not it will ship out the following day to arrive the next bussiness day.International express delivery takes about 2-5 business days. We will provide you with a tracking number as soon as your order is shipped so you can track it online and see when it is going to arrive. Please feel free to give us a call at 1-877-738-3811 with any shipping questions.
WILL MY WATCH COME WITH BOX AND DOCUMENTATION?
All our watches come in the original manufacturer’s box with all documentation. However, since we are not authorized dealers, the manufacturer’s warranty may not be included. You will receive a two year warranty from Swiss Wrist in its place. Please note that if the manufacturer’s warranty is included, it is not valid unless it is stamped by an authorized dealer. Since we are not authorized dealers, we are not able to stamp the warranty.
WHAT ARE YOUR ACCEPTED PAYMENT METHODS?
For domestic orders, we accept:
• Google Checkout
• Visa/Mastercard, American Express, Discover
• Faxed in Credit Card Order Form Processd Via Paypal Inc.
• Bank Wire transfer
• Certified Check/Money Order
For international orders, we accept:
• Bank Wire transfer
• Visa/Mastercard, American Express, Discover
DO I NEED TO BE PRESENT TO SIGN FOR THE PACKAGE?
For your safety, all our packages are shipped signature required. You will need to be home to sign for the package. If you do not want to have to stay home for the package, we ship via overnight delivery, which is guaranteed by 10:30 AM. Otherwise, If you are not home, the package will not be left at your door. A note will be left to inform you when they will come again to deliver your package. Alternatively, you can call the company (UPS or FedEx) to arrange a drop-off time.
WILL MY WATCH BE RESIZED FOR ME?WILL MY WATCH BE RESIZED FOR ME?
On most watches you will need to size it too fit your wrist. Upon placement of your order we will ask you for your wrist size. Our watchmaker will resize the watch band to fit perfectly on your wrist and include all extra removed links.
This can always be done when the wearer is present to determine which links to remove. Sometimes it is better to remove a link from the right side of the watch, other times they will opt to remove it from the left side, depending on the size of your wrist and how the watch fits. You may also need to remove only a half link, as opposed to a full link. The best option is to give us your wrist size allowing our watchmaker to size the watch perfectly for your wrist.
CAN I GO SWIMMING OR SHOWER WITH MY WATCH?
Drawing on years of experience, it is our recommendation that though Rolex and Other watches are marketed as "water resistant" and all pieces sold by Swiss Wrist are tested for water resistance, because of the fine nature of the piece we discourage our customers from making a practice of taking them in the shower or pool. This is because if for some reason the stem, which is the round mechanism found on the side of the case which is unscrewed to set the time, is not completely screwed down, water may leak into the movement which can damage the watch. The chances are incredibly slim that this will happen, but nonetheless it is our recommendation that if possible our customers refrain from taking their pieces in the water to avoid any unnecessary problems.
WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR WATCHES?
We buy our watches through reputable Local and International dealers and distributors and other legitimate established lines of distribution within the watch industry. We do not sell refurbished watches or manufacturer's rejects! You are guaranteed to recieve the finest timepiece in the best condition.
WHY SHOULD I BUY A USED ROLEX WATCH OVER A NEW ONE?
Reason One: Unlike New Rolex Watches, Used Rolex Watches do not depreciate in value immediately after purchase. Therefore , buying a new Rolex watch is like buying a brand new car, The moment you drive it off the lot it has lost 20 to 30 percent of its value. The same with the minute you slip a new Rolex on your wrist, the value plummets.
Reason Two: Pre-Owned or Used Rolex watches coming from reputable dealers will have a warranty coverage period that is as good or better than one that would come with a New watch, from the manufacturer.
Reason Three : No one can spot a used Rolex on your wrist, if it’s purchase from a reputable dealer. Rolex designs don’t constantly change. With care and maintenance, a Rolex lasts forever. Unless you make the decision to reveal it, no one will know you are wearing a used Rolex. Don’t think of a used Rolex the way you do used clothing or used carpeting.It is not that people won’t notice your watch. They will. After all, it’s a Rolex. But will they detect that it is ‘used’? Never.
Reason Four: There’s no risk in purchasing used Rolex watches – from a reputable dealer. Reputable dealers provide buyers with a certificates of authenticity, certificates of warranty and invoices with serial numbers.
WHY DO YOUR PHOTOS HAVE "SWISS WRIST" IMPRINTED ON THEM?
This is a computer generated watermark which is used in order curb the usage of our photos by other companies, as their own. Many of our competitors, lack the actual physical inventory needed to display photos of the watches they have for sale. We therefore make use of this watermark measure in order to protect the use of our photos. This watermarks are only on the online photos of our website. The watches themselves obviously do not display this watermark.
WHAT IS YOUR WARRANTY & DO YOU OFFER POST WARRANTY SERVICE?
Swiss Wrist issues a warranty period for every watch we sell. Our Perfect Pre-Owned or Like New watches are covered by a full one year warranty covering the entire watch. Our Unused/Unworn watches have a full two year warranty. For our Pre-Owned watches we do offer a second full year at a cost of $295. This added year must be purchased at the point of sale.
Swiss Wrist offers discounted industry level pricing for watch service beyond the warranty period. We wish to cultivate lasting relationships with our clients and work on a mind set of "once a customer, always a customer.
WHY DO SOME ROLEXES HAVE A GREEN STICKER ON THE BACK?
Many people confuse the green sticker on the back of a Rolex with a sign of authenticity because for decades Rolex issued watches with a green sticker on the caseback bearing the Rolex mark and the model number of the watch. Modern Rolexes bore a holographic sticker to deter counterfeiters, but this proved to be ineffective.
In late 2007 Rolex stopped putting the green sticker on the back of their watches - replacing it with a transparent sticker. Rolexes made after late 2007 should not have a green sticker on the caseback, only a clear plastic sticker. A Rolex with a green sticker on the caseback is a 2007 or earlier production model.
The green stickers were meant to be removed before wearing the watch, so many of our preowned Rolexes made before 2007 will not have a green sticker on the caseback either. A great number of people did choose to wear their Rolexes without removing the caseback sticker, so sometimes you will notice preowned Rolexes that still have the green sticker. There is little significance to the presence of a green sticker on a preowned Rolex or the lack thereof.
A green sticker is not a reliable indicator of authenticity and a potential Rolex buyer would be well advised to research the seller, not the sticker.
WHAT DOES WATER RESISTANCE MEAN?
Water resistance is normally expressed in meters. This rating is only theoretical and refers to the depth that a watch will keep water out if the watch and water are both motionless. These conditions never really exist in real life because the users arm movement dramatically increases the pressure on the watch, along with the water moving itself. The chart below should help you understand how deep you can really go with your watch.
Measurement Units: 1 meter is about 3.3 feet / 1 ATM (atmosphere) or bar is 10 meters
If a watch is labeled only "water-resistant." It can withstand splashes of water but should not be submerged in any water.
50 meters: suitable for brief water exposure
100 meters: suitable for standard swimming pools
200 meters: suitable for recreational scuba diving
1,000 meters: (roughly three-fifths of a mile). Watches should never be put in a sauna or a hot tub since the exposure to heat can easily make the gaskets lose their shape and ability to keep water out.
Watches should not be worn in the bath/shower. The soap suds reduce the surface tension of the rubber gasket in the watch, which allows water to get in. The soap can also damage the seal itself. So we highly recommend you do not bathe with your watch.
SWISS WRIST CARRIES PRE-OWNED ROLEX,WHY BUY PRE-OWNED ROLEX?
Similar to the purchase of any other upscale item, a New Rolex Watch will depreciate in value immediately after it is purchased. However by purchasing a Pre-Owned Rolex, you avoid this initial depreciation. Any Quality Perfect Condition Pre-Owned Rolex Watch will greatly hold its value and usually will be worth more then their original cost later in time as Rolex phases out an older model for a Modern Version. It is also for this same reason, that one would also be highly motivated to search for the very best price on a New Rolex Watch. Therefore anyone in search of a Rolex Watch, may it be a Pre-Owned Rolex Watch or an Unused Rolex Watch at the lowest prices in the Nation, with the Highest Quality Standards Known in the Industry's History and Top-Notch Customer Service and Sales Support that without a doubt stands above the rest, The Answer is SWISS WRIST.
http://www.swiss-wrist.com/index.php?vars=faq
Swiss Wrist Watch Co. is one of the largest sources for pre-owned high-end wristwatches for both dealers within the trade as well as the general public. We have taken the time to create a web environment that caters to our customers by allowing them to comfortably do business from the privacy of their homes. We want to offer our customers a wide variety of timepieces at the most competitive prices available. In addition to this we want them to feel secure purchasing from us. We are one of a handful of online high-end wrist watch merchants that are capable of processing your credit card for your entire purchase. This allows "first time buyers" to feel more secure in making a large purchase as they have an added layer of security via their credit card company. Second, unlike many companies that only allow an exchange, we allow a full refund for any watch purchased from us that a customer is not pleased with. We want to earn your repeat business and realize that it behooves us to make it easy to do business through our site. If you are not 100% satisfied with any piece you purchase through our website you may return it within three days of receipt for a full refund. In order To enhance your online shopping experience, we have spent the time and money to have actual pictures of watches displayed on our site which is the next best thing to being able to touch the piece. We encourage and are ultra responsive to both e-mails and calls concerning your questions. We want to though roughly answer any questions you have in a "no pressure" manner because we realize buying a world class watch is a big decision. You may call us toll free: 877-738-3811 and one of our watch specialists will be glad to answer your questions on any piece we have in stock or any piece you may be interested in that you do not see. Through three generations in the watch and jewelry trade, we have the wisdom to know that when you purchase a watch from us and become a happy customer, in all likelihood you will also become a return customer who refers others as well.
WOW! GREAT PRICES, HOW CAN YOU SELL WAY UNDER RETAIL?
Swiss Wrist has built the best connections in the business affording us the ability to buy from dealers at the highest level of the industry. Through this we can buy in the largest quantities while getting the best pricing. We price most of our watches to sell. We buy low and sell low, making our money on sales volume.. Being that we are not an Authorized Dealer, we are able to offer our customers rock bottom pricing without being subject to any manufacturers price controls or policies.
When buying a New or "Never Worn" watch from us, the only difference between us and the "authorized retailer" is ours is backed by our two year warranty versus the manufacturers warranty. Should the warranty run out and you need service, the manufacturer will help you as if you bought it through one of their authorized dealers or you can take advantage of our won in-house service for life at industry cost price.
DO YOU HAVE A PHYSICAL STORE? CAN I COME IN TO VIEW MY WATCH?
Swiss Wrist does not have a retail or "brick & mortar" sales location. We hold our entire inventory in special merchandise/warehouse location and all sales are handled through our corporate office. This business style allows us to keep overheard to a minimum, which in turn enables us to continue offering the lowest possible pricing an all watches. For insurance and Security reasons we cannot have any of our clients come view or purchase a watch in person.
ARE YOU AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR ANY TIMEPIECE YOU SELL?
Swiss-Wrist is not an official authorized dealer of Rolex or any other brand we sell, whether on our site or special ordered. Being that we are not an Authorized Dealer, we are able to offer our customers rock bottom pricing without being subject to any manufacturers price controls or policies. When you buy a watch from Swiss Wrist, you will receive all paperwork documenting all necessary information. The Serial and Reference numbers will be listed together with an " Authenticity Document" from Swiss Wrist detailing the steps taken to ensure that you watch is Fully Authentic and in perfect running order. We will also issue a One or Two Year Warranty for every watch we sell, covered exclusively by Swiss Wrist. There will also be paperwork present, which confirms this Warranty and the corresponding coverage date.
WHAT IS YOUR SHIPPING METHOD AND COST?
Swiss-Wrist ships via Next Day Air UPS or FEDEX Insured Overnight Signature Required. You will receive your item(s) the morning after we ship. Swiss Wrist offers Free Next Day Air Delivery, there is absolutly no cost for shippping.
WHAT IS MEANT BY "PERFECT LIKE NEW" AND UNUSED UNWORN?
Perfect Like New (Day One Condition) watches are pre-owned timpieces that are purchased by Swiss Wrist in already prisitne and immaculate condition. This refers to the Cosmetic as well as the watch's mechanical condition. We then inspect these timepieces to ensure that they are all 100% authentic and meet our standards. These watches are so perfect that in most cases they can even pass for "Brand New". These watches have no scratches or markings, movments are 100% and the watch bracelets have miniscule amounts of stretch.
Unused or Unworn watches are timepieces which have never been worn or sold to a End User or Purchaser. We make bulk purchases from large national jewelery chains who wish to unload their extra or unsold merchandise. Many of these watches include watches that where on display at these respective jewlery stores. Therefore some of these timepieces may have been handeled by customers wishing to view these watches and how they look on their wrists. These watches are perfect in every way and as close to brand new as possible.
DO YOU CHARGE SALES TAX ON YOUR WATCHES?
We are only required to collect sales tax from those who have their purchases shipped within the State of Florida.
DO ALL WATCHES COME WITH THEIR SERIAL NUMBERS?
Every timepiece sold by Swiss-Wrist will have its Serial and Referance numbers in place and and visable. We do not remove serial numbers in any shape or form. Swiss Wrist looks down quite negatively upon this practice, we are a reputable watch dealer . We sell only Authentic Products in top level condition.
HOW CAN I MAKE SURE THAT MY WATCH IS AUTHENTIC?
Swiss Wrist has been in the Watch & Jewelery Industry for over two and half decades. We have established contacts with the top watch dealers in the nation. Every single watch we buy and sell is coming from reputable sources. Every customer has three days from when they receive their watch to ensure that they are 100% satisfied with their purchase. Therefore our " Three Day Satisfaction Guarantee" allows for ample time, so that our clients can take their purchases to a jeweler to be authenticated and inspected.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECIEVE MY WATCH?
So long as your order is received and verified before 3:00 PM EST, and the watch is in stock, your order will ship out the same day, if not it will ship out the following day to arrive the next bussiness day.International express delivery takes about 2-5 business days. We will provide you with a tracking number as soon as your order is shipped so you can track it online and see when it is going to arrive. Please feel free to give us a call at 1-877-738-3811 with any shipping questions.
WILL MY WATCH COME WITH BOX AND DOCUMENTATION?
All our watches come in the original manufacturer’s box with all documentation. However, since we are not authorized dealers, the manufacturer’s warranty may not be included. You will receive a two year warranty from Swiss Wrist in its place. Please note that if the manufacturer’s warranty is included, it is not valid unless it is stamped by an authorized dealer. Since we are not authorized dealers, we are not able to stamp the warranty.
WHAT ARE YOUR ACCEPTED PAYMENT METHODS?
For domestic orders, we accept:
• Google Checkout
• Visa/Mastercard, American Express, Discover
• Faxed in Credit Card Order Form Processd Via Paypal Inc.
• Bank Wire transfer
• Certified Check/Money Order
For international orders, we accept:
• Bank Wire transfer
• Visa/Mastercard, American Express, Discover
DO I NEED TO BE PRESENT TO SIGN FOR THE PACKAGE?
For your safety, all our packages are shipped signature required. You will need to be home to sign for the package. If you do not want to have to stay home for the package, we ship via overnight delivery, which is guaranteed by 10:30 AM. Otherwise, If you are not home, the package will not be left at your door. A note will be left to inform you when they will come again to deliver your package. Alternatively, you can call the company (UPS or FedEx) to arrange a drop-off time.
WILL MY WATCH BE RESIZED FOR ME?WILL MY WATCH BE RESIZED FOR ME?
On most watches you will need to size it too fit your wrist. Upon placement of your order we will ask you for your wrist size. Our watchmaker will resize the watch band to fit perfectly on your wrist and include all extra removed links.
This can always be done when the wearer is present to determine which links to remove. Sometimes it is better to remove a link from the right side of the watch, other times they will opt to remove it from the left side, depending on the size of your wrist and how the watch fits. You may also need to remove only a half link, as opposed to a full link. The best option is to give us your wrist size allowing our watchmaker to size the watch perfectly for your wrist.
CAN I GO SWIMMING OR SHOWER WITH MY WATCH?
Drawing on years of experience, it is our recommendation that though Rolex and Other watches are marketed as "water resistant" and all pieces sold by Swiss Wrist are tested for water resistance, because of the fine nature of the piece we discourage our customers from making a practice of taking them in the shower or pool. This is because if for some reason the stem, which is the round mechanism found on the side of the case which is unscrewed to set the time, is not completely screwed down, water may leak into the movement which can damage the watch. The chances are incredibly slim that this will happen, but nonetheless it is our recommendation that if possible our customers refrain from taking their pieces in the water to avoid any unnecessary problems.
WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR WATCHES?
We buy our watches through reputable Local and International dealers and distributors and other legitimate established lines of distribution within the watch industry. We do not sell refurbished watches or manufacturer's rejects! You are guaranteed to recieve the finest timepiece in the best condition.
WHY SHOULD I BUY A USED ROLEX WATCH OVER A NEW ONE?
Reason One: Unlike New Rolex Watches, Used Rolex Watches do not depreciate in value immediately after purchase. Therefore , buying a new Rolex watch is like buying a brand new car, The moment you drive it off the lot it has lost 20 to 30 percent of its value. The same with the minute you slip a new Rolex on your wrist, the value plummets.
Reason Two: Pre-Owned or Used Rolex watches coming from reputable dealers will have a warranty coverage period that is as good or better than one that would come with a New watch, from the manufacturer.
Reason Three : No one can spot a used Rolex on your wrist, if it’s purchase from a reputable dealer. Rolex designs don’t constantly change. With care and maintenance, a Rolex lasts forever. Unless you make the decision to reveal it, no one will know you are wearing a used Rolex. Don’t think of a used Rolex the way you do used clothing or used carpeting.It is not that people won’t notice your watch. They will. After all, it’s a Rolex. But will they detect that it is ‘used’? Never.
Reason Four: There’s no risk in purchasing used Rolex watches – from a reputable dealer. Reputable dealers provide buyers with a certificates of authenticity, certificates of warranty and invoices with serial numbers.
WHY DO YOUR PHOTOS HAVE "SWISS WRIST" IMPRINTED ON THEM?
This is a computer generated watermark which is used in order curb the usage of our photos by other companies, as their own. Many of our competitors, lack the actual physical inventory needed to display photos of the watches they have for sale. We therefore make use of this watermark measure in order to protect the use of our photos. This watermarks are only on the online photos of our website. The watches themselves obviously do not display this watermark.
WHAT IS YOUR WARRANTY & DO YOU OFFER POST WARRANTY SERVICE?
Swiss Wrist issues a warranty period for every watch we sell. Our Perfect Pre-Owned or Like New watches are covered by a full one year warranty covering the entire watch. Our Unused/Unworn watches have a full two year warranty. For our Pre-Owned watches we do offer a second full year at a cost of $295. This added year must be purchased at the point of sale.
Swiss Wrist offers discounted industry level pricing for watch service beyond the warranty period. We wish to cultivate lasting relationships with our clients and work on a mind set of "once a customer, always a customer.
WHY DO SOME ROLEXES HAVE A GREEN STICKER ON THE BACK?
Many people confuse the green sticker on the back of a Rolex with a sign of authenticity because for decades Rolex issued watches with a green sticker on the caseback bearing the Rolex mark and the model number of the watch. Modern Rolexes bore a holographic sticker to deter counterfeiters, but this proved to be ineffective.
In late 2007 Rolex stopped putting the green sticker on the back of their watches - replacing it with a transparent sticker. Rolexes made after late 2007 should not have a green sticker on the caseback, only a clear plastic sticker. A Rolex with a green sticker on the caseback is a 2007 or earlier production model.
The green stickers were meant to be removed before wearing the watch, so many of our preowned Rolexes made before 2007 will not have a green sticker on the caseback either. A great number of people did choose to wear their Rolexes without removing the caseback sticker, so sometimes you will notice preowned Rolexes that still have the green sticker. There is little significance to the presence of a green sticker on a preowned Rolex or the lack thereof.
A green sticker is not a reliable indicator of authenticity and a potential Rolex buyer would be well advised to research the seller, not the sticker.
WHAT DOES WATER RESISTANCE MEAN?
Water resistance is normally expressed in meters. This rating is only theoretical and refers to the depth that a watch will keep water out if the watch and water are both motionless. These conditions never really exist in real life because the users arm movement dramatically increases the pressure on the watch, along with the water moving itself. The chart below should help you understand how deep you can really go with your watch.
Measurement Units: 1 meter is about 3.3 feet / 1 ATM (atmosphere) or bar is 10 meters
If a watch is labeled only "water-resistant." It can withstand splashes of water but should not be submerged in any water.
50 meters: suitable for brief water exposure
100 meters: suitable for standard swimming pools
200 meters: suitable for recreational scuba diving
1,000 meters: (roughly three-fifths of a mile). Watches should never be put in a sauna or a hot tub since the exposure to heat can easily make the gaskets lose their shape and ability to keep water out.
Watches should not be worn in the bath/shower. The soap suds reduce the surface tension of the rubber gasket in the watch, which allows water to get in. The soap can also damage the seal itself. So we highly recommend you do not bathe with your watch.
SWISS WRIST CARRIES PRE-OWNED ROLEX,WHY BUY PRE-OWNED ROLEX?
Similar to the purchase of any other upscale item, a New Rolex Watch will depreciate in value immediately after it is purchased. However by purchasing a Pre-Owned Rolex, you avoid this initial depreciation. Any Quality Perfect Condition Pre-Owned Rolex Watch will greatly hold its value and usually will be worth more then their original cost later in time as Rolex phases out an older model for a Modern Version. It is also for this same reason, that one would also be highly motivated to search for the very best price on a New Rolex Watch. Therefore anyone in search of a Rolex Watch, may it be a Pre-Owned Rolex Watch or an Unused Rolex Watch at the lowest prices in the Nation, with the Highest Quality Standards Known in the Industry's History and Top-Notch Customer Service and Sales Support that without a doubt stands above the rest, The Answer is SWISS WRIST.
http://www.swiss-wrist.com/index.php?vars=faq
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Did Rolex lose a BILLION DOLLARS with Bernie Madoff ?!?
Stunning news in the horolgy world that is just evolving…..
The well-regarded British newspaper, The Times, has just published an article linking the horology giant with the recently disgraced Ponzi-schemer, Bernie Madoff. Their article is below. Most interesting for me personally, however, was the replacement of CEO Patrick Heiniger with the former Chief FINANCIAL Officer, Bruno Meier.
Questions still remain, was Rolex really heavily invested with Bernie Madoff? And if so, how deeply? Was their any internal push to invest with Madoff and is the recent corporate restructuring a result?
As a private company they don’t have shareholders to answer to, which will probably end up with these questions never being answered, but it would be interesting. Rolex has always been highly regarded as a conservative, staid company- heck, they don’t even service their own watches after a couple of decades! How the stunning admission that they may have invested (and lost) HUNDREDS of MILLIONS of dollars in a Ponzi scheme affects the watch world remains to be seen.
It’s almost certain they’ll be perfectly fine, with a history of hitting home runs like these:
From the TimesOnline.com:
Rolex Group announced only its fourth leader since 1905 yesterday after the surprise departure of its chief executive, when it named Bruno Meier, the finance director, as the next head of management.
The abrupt departure of Patrick Heiniger, for “personal reasons”, followed a denial by the company that it had lost SwFr1 billion (£600 million) invested with Bernard Madoff, the American asset manager charged with a $50 billion (£33 billion) fraud.
Mr Heiniger, 58, has led the group since 1992, when he succeeded his father, Andre. Rolex said that he had left to “pursue personal projects”.
Analysts questioned the timing of his departure on Wednesday, which came as the luxury watch sector is facing a difficult trading period. The financial crisis is starving its customers of the bonuses that experts say is the lifeblood of the industry.
Mr Heiniger’s departure came the day after L’Agefi, a Swiss financial daily, claimed that Rolex had lost money in the alleged Madoff fraud. The company has denied the claim.
The shake-up comes amid predictions from analysts that Swiss watches will be the worst-hit part of a luxury sector that JPMorgan expects to contract by 4 per cent next year.
John Guy, an analyst at MF Global Securities, estimates that sales of Swiss watches will slump by 15 per cent next year. “[The chief executive] stepping down at this time does seem slightly odd, given that the watch industry is in for a tough time,” Mr Cox told Bloomberg, the news agency. “If we get this nuclear winter next year in the watch industry, a lot of companies will be in trouble.”
James Lawson, a director of Ledbury, a marketing research group that specialises in the luxury goods market, said that the slump in bonuses had hit the three extravagant “big ticket” purchases they normally fund: property, luxury cars and Swiss watches.
Swiss watchmakers were set this year to export £325 million of goods to Britain, a market that is thought to be worth £650 million at the retail stage.
Once a bastion of financial conservatism, Switzerland has been rocked by the global liquidity crisis and is deeply embroiled in the Madoff debacle. Union Bancaire Privée has a $700 million exposure to Madoff, while executives at UBS and Credit Suisse – the country’s two largest banks – have forgone bonuses in acknowledgement of their role. However, neither UBS nor Credit Suisse is thought to have significant exposure.
Rolex said that Mr Heiniger would remain as an adviser to the company. His departure brings to an end the “Heiniger era” at the watchmaker. Mr Heiniger’s father took control of the company in 1963, succeeding Hans Wilsdorf, the founder, as president. The company is privately owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation. The brand is worth about $5 billion, according to Interbrand.
www.swiss-wrist.com
The well-regarded British newspaper, The Times, has just published an article linking the horology giant with the recently disgraced Ponzi-schemer, Bernie Madoff. Their article is below. Most interesting for me personally, however, was the replacement of CEO Patrick Heiniger with the former Chief FINANCIAL Officer, Bruno Meier.
Questions still remain, was Rolex really heavily invested with Bernie Madoff? And if so, how deeply? Was their any internal push to invest with Madoff and is the recent corporate restructuring a result?
As a private company they don’t have shareholders to answer to, which will probably end up with these questions never being answered, but it would be interesting. Rolex has always been highly regarded as a conservative, staid company- heck, they don’t even service their own watches after a couple of decades! How the stunning admission that they may have invested (and lost) HUNDREDS of MILLIONS of dollars in a Ponzi scheme affects the watch world remains to be seen.
It’s almost certain they’ll be perfectly fine, with a history of hitting home runs like these:
From the TimesOnline.com:
Rolex Group announced only its fourth leader since 1905 yesterday after the surprise departure of its chief executive, when it named Bruno Meier, the finance director, as the next head of management.
The abrupt departure of Patrick Heiniger, for “personal reasons”, followed a denial by the company that it had lost SwFr1 billion (£600 million) invested with Bernard Madoff, the American asset manager charged with a $50 billion (£33 billion) fraud.
Mr Heiniger, 58, has led the group since 1992, when he succeeded his father, Andre. Rolex said that he had left to “pursue personal projects”.
Analysts questioned the timing of his departure on Wednesday, which came as the luxury watch sector is facing a difficult trading period. The financial crisis is starving its customers of the bonuses that experts say is the lifeblood of the industry.
Mr Heiniger’s departure came the day after L’Agefi, a Swiss financial daily, claimed that Rolex had lost money in the alleged Madoff fraud. The company has denied the claim.
The shake-up comes amid predictions from analysts that Swiss watches will be the worst-hit part of a luxury sector that JPMorgan expects to contract by 4 per cent next year.
John Guy, an analyst at MF Global Securities, estimates that sales of Swiss watches will slump by 15 per cent next year. “[The chief executive] stepping down at this time does seem slightly odd, given that the watch industry is in for a tough time,” Mr Cox told Bloomberg, the news agency. “If we get this nuclear winter next year in the watch industry, a lot of companies will be in trouble.”
James Lawson, a director of Ledbury, a marketing research group that specialises in the luxury goods market, said that the slump in bonuses had hit the three extravagant “big ticket” purchases they normally fund: property, luxury cars and Swiss watches.
Swiss watchmakers were set this year to export £325 million of goods to Britain, a market that is thought to be worth £650 million at the retail stage.
Once a bastion of financial conservatism, Switzerland has been rocked by the global liquidity crisis and is deeply embroiled in the Madoff debacle. Union Bancaire Privée has a $700 million exposure to Madoff, while executives at UBS and Credit Suisse – the country’s two largest banks – have forgone bonuses in acknowledgement of their role. However, neither UBS nor Credit Suisse is thought to have significant exposure.
Rolex said that Mr Heiniger would remain as an adviser to the company. His departure brings to an end the “Heiniger era” at the watchmaker. Mr Heiniger’s father took control of the company in 1963, succeeding Hans Wilsdorf, the founder, as president. The company is privately owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation. The brand is worth about $5 billion, according to Interbrand.
www.swiss-wrist.com
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
What better time than summer to sport a diving watch, and preferably the tan line that goes with it. Yet only a handful of these aficionados have ever probed the ocean’s depths. No matter, as these models have risen to the surface of exceptional technical and sports watches in their own right.
Christophe Roulet
How often does a mechanical diving watch get to do what it was designed for? Knowing that the most advanced models are built to explore the depths of the Mariana Trench, but more often than not indulge in nothing more than a little light snorkelling or such high-risk activities as washing dishes or a bracing shower, one can legitimately wonder. Particularly as no deep-sea enthusiast worth their salt ventures onto the ocean floor without a custom-designed dive computer strapped to their wrist. At best, they will wear a diving watch as a back-up.
What, then, is the point of all these notched bezels, helium escape valves, depth gauges, fluorescent markings, alarms and decompression stop indicators if the most these watches have to brave is the formidable pressure of your bathwater? The answer is short and to the point: diving watches are an opportunity for watchmakers to demonstrate their expertise and mastery of mechanical timepieces. And these watches are taking on a more and more extravagant allure as manufactures vie to seduce an audience won over to their sporting design with unbridled feats of technology.
An "old, old story"
To qualify as a diving watch, these models must comply with NIHS 91-11 (ISO 6425) standard. This stipulates basic criteria including luminosity, magnetic and shock resistance and the sturdiness of the strap. In addition to having a unidirectional rotating bezel for calculating dive times, a robust crystal and fluorescent markings, diving watches must withstand immersion in water to a depth of at least 100 metres (10 bar/atm or 10 kg/cm2) for free-diving. Nothing that will impress the many watch firms which decades ago forged a reputation in underwater exploration, with models that now rank as icons. Think Rolex (Oyster 1926; Submariner 1953; Sea-Dweller 1971), Panerai (Luminor 1950), Blancpain (Fifty Fathoms 1953), Breitling (Superocean 1957), Jaeger-LeCoultre (Memovox Deep Sea 1959; Polaris 1963), Girard-
Perregaux (Sea Hawk Deep Diver 1965), IWC (Aquatimer 1967), Omega (PloProf 1971) and Tag Heuer (Aquaracer, 1985).
Perregaux (Sea Hawk Deep Diver 1965), IWC (Aquatimer 1967), Omega (PloProf 1971) and Tag Heuer (Aquaracer, 1985).For watchmakers, the only way is up, or rather down, to more extreme conditions and unfathomed depths. Last year, Rolex unveiled its Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller Deepsea whose redesigned case architecture takes it to a colossal depth of 3,900 metres. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller Deepsea can be found and purchased at http://www.swiss-wrist.com/index.php?vars=products/57/1893/info for $8,195.00. This year it’s Omega’s turn to adorn divers’ wrists with a new version of its legendary Ploprof (short for plongeur professionnel or professional diver). It brings guaranteed water-resistance to 1,200 metres and a bezel that can be locked with a pusher for maximum security. The Ploprof, with its resolutely vintage style, just beats the 1,000 metres’ descent of the Alpina Extreme Divers, launched a few months ago, and the Oris ProDiver Chronograph, unveiled at this year’s Baselworld. Needless to say, all these watches are equipped with a helium escape valve that prevents them from popping open like oysters during decompression stops.
Gauging the depths
The latest application to gain currency among makers of mechanical diving watches is the depth gauge. This is a vital feature for divers, who must respect decompression stops when resurfacing. After experimenting with this kind of system forty years ago, Favre-Leuba has brought it up to speed in its Bathy V2. Water enters the double case back through four openings on the side, where it comes into contact with a beryllium copper membrane. The pressure causes this membrane to contract just a few tenths of a millimetre and, through a complex mechanism, this contraction moves the depth gauge hand. Favre-Leuba promises less than 0.18% deviation at 45 metres’ depth.
Jaeger-LeCoultre also made a splash, so to speak, when it launched its Master Compressor Diving collection two years ago. The Geographic model features a patented mechanical depth gauge housed in the side of the case that measures depths down to 80 metres. IWC’s solution, incorporated into its Aquatimer Deep Two, is intended as a vital back-up should the dive computer fail. It features a semi-circular depth indicator on the left side of the dial. Two hand tips, one blue and one red, indicate actual dive depth and maximum depth. The pressure measurement system is contained inside a second crown, with a cover, also on the left of the case. Water is allowed to enter via micro-perforations in the crown cover and exerts pressure on a mechanically-guided elastic membrane to force a pin into the case. This movement, which is totally independent of the calibre, triggers a lever mechanism which, via a gear train, moves the two hands. Sunday divers and swimming-pool snorkellers rest assured: your safety is in watchmakers’ good hands.
Visit http://www.swiss-wrist.com/index.php?vars=products/57/1893/info to view the
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller Deepsea today.
Monday, July 13, 2009
ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL SEA-DWELLER DEEPSEA
CASE ARCHITECTURE AND WATERPROOFNESS
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A watch developed for extreme depths, guaranteed waterproof to 3,900 metres (12,800 feet), the Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA required the design of a case with a unique architecture, the RINGLOCK SYSTEM. This innovation patented by Rolex consists of a combination of three distinctive features:
• The high-performance ring
Set inside the middle case of the watch between the crystal and the case back, the high-performance nitrogen-alloyed stainless steel ring withstands the pressure exerted by water on the crystal and the case back.The middle case is made from 904L steel.
• The sapphire crystal
To resist pressure, the synthetic sapphire crystal is slightly domed and substantially thicker than the crystals of other Oyster models.
• The case back
The case back is made of a titanium alloy, an extremely resistant stainless material. It is held in place against the high-performance ring by means of a 904L-steel ring. The titanium back is used, not because it is more pressure resistant than steel; in fact it is used because it will flex slightly under extreme pressure and then revert to its original form.
• The Helium valve.
The helium valve is made of high-performance stainless steel. Its size is adapted to the dimensions of the case to achieve optimal waterproofness. The helium valve is a safety feature, which, during the decompression phase, releases the gases that infiltrate into the watch during caisson dives.
Indeed, between dives at great depths, professional divers use pressurised caissons in which they breathe high-pressure gas mixtures, notably containing helium, a very volatile gas that penetrates into the watch. As the diver resurfaces, the helium valve prevents damage to the watch.
• The Triplock winding crown.
The Triplock winding crown, equipped with three seals and screwed onto the case, completes this ingenious waterproof system.
DISPLAY AND LEGIBILITY
• The bezel
The Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA is equipped with a unidirectional rotatable bezel with a 60-minute graduated black CERACHROM disc that allows the diver to precisely track his dive time. Engraved in the CERACHROM, the numerals and the graduations are filled with platinum through the use of a PVD technique patented by Rolex. The zero marker of the graduated bezel, represented by a triangle, is visible longer at night or in the depths of the ocean thanks to a capsule containing a new luminescent material that emits a blue glow.
• The dial
To enhance legibility, the gold indexes and hands are wider and partially coated with the same new luminescent material and also emit a blue colour.
• The movement
The Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA is equipped with calibre 3135, known for its chronometric precision, its reliability and its robustness; it also features a PARACHROM hairspring with high resistance to shocks and magnetic fields.
The Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA is equipped with calibre 3135, known for its chronometric precision, its reliability and its robustness; it also features a PARACHROM hairspring with high resistance to shocks and magnetic fields.
Certified as a chronometer by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), the movement has a 48-hour power reserve.
• The bracelet
Manufactured from solid 904L steel, the Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA bracelet can be adjusted for wear over a diving suit up to 7 mm thick thanks to a double extension system:
• Fliplock extension links,
• The new GLIDELOCK clasp, allowing fine adjustments. (see below)
• A series of rigorous tests
Because deep-sea diving requires absolute reliability and safety, each Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA must pass Rolex’s rigorous waterproofness tests. To this end, special equipment has been developed with the help of COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d’Expertise), a world-renowned French company specialising in underwater engineering and hyperbaric technologies.
ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL SEA-DWELLER DEEPSEA FUNCTIONING
• THE UNIDIRECTIONAL ROTATABLE BEZEL
The Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA allows a diver to safely track his dive time thanks to the unidirectional graduated bezel featured on the watch.
At the beginning of a dive:
Once in the water, before beginning his descent, the diver turns the bezel to align the triangle on the graduated bezel to the minute hand, thus indicating the start time of his dive.
During the dive:
The dive time can be read against the graduated bezel.Since the DEEPSEA bezel turns only counterclockwise, any accidental rotation can only have the effect of shortening the dive time.
• THE GLIDELOCK CLASP
The new GLIDELOCK clasp allows for fine adjustments to the bracelet length, up to 18 mm by increments of 1.8 mm, without removing the watch.
1 Pull up the clasp’s safety catch.
2 Pull up the centre panel of the clasp cover. The teeth located underneath it become visible.
3 Pull gently on the 12-o’clock side of the bracelet to lengthen it, or slide it into the clasp to shorten it. Adjustments can be made in 1.8 mm increments, up to a total of 18 mm.
3 Pull gently on the 12-o’clock side of the bracelet to lengthen it, or slide it into the clasp to shorten it. Adjustments can be made in 1.8 mm increments, up to a total of 18 mm.
4 Once the bracelet has been adjusted to the desired length, close the centre panel.
5 Close the safety catch.
The watch weighs 222gms with a case diameter of 43mm.
Visit www.swiss-wrist.comThursday, July 2, 2009
ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE 2009 - OPEN FOR ENTRIES
Having celebrated the fortieth anniversary of the first Rolex Middle Sea Race last year with another record-breaking international fleet, the Royal Malta Yacht Club might be forgiven for taking things easier this year. Not a bit of it. 2009 marks the thirtieth race in the forty-one year history of the 606 nautical mile course. Another excuse for a celebration in Malta later this year.
The Royal Malta Yacht Club has its work cut out. In November 2008, it locked the doors on its former club house in walls of the 18th Century Fort Manoel for the last time and moved half a mile further up the Marsamxetto to new premises in Ta'Xbiex. The Club is now hard at work upgrading the former-government building in readiness for its flagship race that starts on 17 October.
Seemingly one thing the RMYC need not worry about is entries. The trickle started soon after the finish of the last race and with the Notice of Race just published, a rush is now expected especially from the foreign crews looking to secure dock space before the event starts and convenient accommodation. One such crew is Legally Brunette from Ireland. Paul Egan and Cathal Drohan took part in 2008 and such was the quality of the experience, that Egan - whose 15-year old son Eugene won the Youth Cup as the youngest participating crew - wrote to the RMYC a few days after finishing to congratulate it on its organisation and being such a wonderful ambassador for Malta, saying "we're spreading the word, but most importantly, we have decided unanimously to return to Malta in 2009... we may entertain reveries of achieving honours, but the fun will be to be there and to participate, both in the race and onshore."
Egan explains that the decision to race last year came from hearing about the experiences of other competitors, "my co-owner and skipper Cathal Drohan and I had read the reports of the 2007 Rolex Middle Sea Race and decided that we just had to be there in 2008. We marshalled our crew, got together our paperwork, made our plans, ensured that we worked up our miles and registered at the earliest opportunity." Egan goes onto add that, "after the race the crew insisted we had to take part again this year."
Legally Brunette is certain not to be alone in returning. Andres Soriano's 69-foot Alegre (GBR) - winner of Line Honours and a tremendous front of the fleet battle with the two STP65s Rosebud and Moneypenny - is slated to return too. If he does so, Soriano looks likely to find himself engaged once again in a battle with two other similar-sized boats. Former motor-racing champion Udo Schutz's Container (GER) is threatening to fly the flag for the STP65s, whilst Bella Mente (USA) the R/P IRC 69 of Hap Fauth also has the race in her 2009 programme.
The Maltese, of course, will not be out-done and three familiar names have already lodged their entries. After the brutal 2007 race, Jonas Diamentino traded in his old IOR two-tonner for an ILC 40, Gasan Mamo Comanche Raider II, which stood up to the test of last year's race well-enough for Diamentino to enter again. Arthur Podesta has also changed steeds and for this edition, his thirtieth lap of the challenging course, is stepping into a Beneteau 45, Elusive II, for another crack at the race he so nearly won last year. Commodore Georges Bonello DuPuis has entered for his fifth assault on the challenging course with Escape and last year's ‘newcomer' Jonathan Gambin also looks to be catching the bug, having entered for a second time with Ton Ton.
With seventy-seven boats on the start-line in 2008, the Royal Malta Yacht Club is looking to extend its run of record sized fleets and to break the eighty-boat barrier this year. "It can be done," say Bonello DuPuis, "but naturally we will be satisfied to put on another successful race that matches or exceeds the expectations of all the competitors - however many they are and wherever they come from."
The Rolex Middle Sea Race commences on Saturday 17 October 2009.
Entries close on 10 October. The final prize giving is on 24 October 2009.
George David's Rambler established the current Course Record of 47 hours 55 minutes and 3 seconds in 2007.
www.swiss-wrist.com
The Royal Malta Yacht Club has its work cut out. In November 2008, it locked the doors on its former club house in walls of the 18th Century Fort Manoel for the last time and moved half a mile further up the Marsamxetto to new premises in Ta'Xbiex. The Club is now hard at work upgrading the former-government building in readiness for its flagship race that starts on 17 October.
Seemingly one thing the RMYC need not worry about is entries. The trickle started soon after the finish of the last race and with the Notice of Race just published, a rush is now expected especially from the foreign crews looking to secure dock space before the event starts and convenient accommodation. One such crew is Legally Brunette from Ireland. Paul Egan and Cathal Drohan took part in 2008 and such was the quality of the experience, that Egan - whose 15-year old son Eugene won the Youth Cup as the youngest participating crew - wrote to the RMYC a few days after finishing to congratulate it on its organisation and being such a wonderful ambassador for Malta, saying "we're spreading the word, but most importantly, we have decided unanimously to return to Malta in 2009... we may entertain reveries of achieving honours, but the fun will be to be there and to participate, both in the race and onshore."
Egan explains that the decision to race last year came from hearing about the experiences of other competitors, "my co-owner and skipper Cathal Drohan and I had read the reports of the 2007 Rolex Middle Sea Race and decided that we just had to be there in 2008. We marshalled our crew, got together our paperwork, made our plans, ensured that we worked up our miles and registered at the earliest opportunity." Egan goes onto add that, "after the race the crew insisted we had to take part again this year."
Legally Brunette is certain not to be alone in returning. Andres Soriano's 69-foot Alegre (GBR) - winner of Line Honours and a tremendous front of the fleet battle with the two STP65s Rosebud and Moneypenny - is slated to return too. If he does so, Soriano looks likely to find himself engaged once again in a battle with two other similar-sized boats. Former motor-racing champion Udo Schutz's Container (GER) is threatening to fly the flag for the STP65s, whilst Bella Mente (USA) the R/P IRC 69 of Hap Fauth also has the race in her 2009 programme.
The Maltese, of course, will not be out-done and three familiar names have already lodged their entries. After the brutal 2007 race, Jonas Diamentino traded in his old IOR two-tonner for an ILC 40, Gasan Mamo Comanche Raider II, which stood up to the test of last year's race well-enough for Diamentino to enter again. Arthur Podesta has also changed steeds and for this edition, his thirtieth lap of the challenging course, is stepping into a Beneteau 45, Elusive II, for another crack at the race he so nearly won last year. Commodore Georges Bonello DuPuis has entered for his fifth assault on the challenging course with Escape and last year's ‘newcomer' Jonathan Gambin also looks to be catching the bug, having entered for a second time with Ton Ton.
With seventy-seven boats on the start-line in 2008, the Royal Malta Yacht Club is looking to extend its run of record sized fleets and to break the eighty-boat barrier this year. "It can be done," say Bonello DuPuis, "but naturally we will be satisfied to put on another successful race that matches or exceeds the expectations of all the competitors - however many they are and wherever they come from."
The Rolex Middle Sea Race commences on Saturday 17 October 2009.
Entries close on 10 October. The final prize giving is on 24 October 2009.
George David's Rambler established the current Course Record of 47 hours 55 minutes and 3 seconds in 2007.
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