What Baselworld Brought Us in 2019

We’re headed back to 2019 Baselworld to take a look at what Rolex brought us. The three models were going to explore today that were released in 2019 include the 42mm White Gold Yacht-Master on Oyster-flex, the Batman on Jubilee and the Sea-Dweller 43mm. Let’s take a look at the new Yacht-Master first. 

More and more, Rolex has been releasing models on their version of a rubber watch band - the Oyster-flex bracelet. While this watch band does not close the gap between the band and watch case like Everest Bands, it is building popularity for a rubber watch band look on your Rolex. Similarly to Everest Bands, the Oyster-Flex incorporates the Rolex Glidelock extension system. The watch case houses the Rolex calibre 3235 with about 70 hours of power reserve. It is the first time this movement has been used in a Yacht-Master model. 

Image from https://timeandtidewatches.com/

The striking appearance of the Rolex Yacht-Master is the monobloc bezel. The new material is extremely corrosion-resistant and virtually scratchproof., Additionally, the colors are unaffected by ultraviolet rays. With a chromalight display, the model offers exceptional readability in all circumstances. 

Rolex also released a larger watch case with the Sea-Dweller 43mm. Rolex combined Oyster Steel and 18ct yellow gold to house the calibre 3235. Waterproof to 1,220 meters, this watch features a screw down case back and Triplock triple waterproofness system as well as the helium escape valve, patented by Rolex in 1967. 

On the new version of the Sea-Dweller, the unidirectional rotatable bezel is fitted with a 60-minute graduated Cerachrom insert in black ceramic. The moulded recessed graduations and numerals are coated with yellow gold via PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition). Don’t forget to check out watch bands for this model here, and preserve that beautiful new bracelet - especially when it's more important than ever to preserve your watch’s value. 

The final model we're going to discuss today was a huge crowd pleaser - the Batman GMT on Jubilee. Designed to assist individuals traveling around the world, the a bi-directional rotatable bezel features the popular black/blue combination. 

The 24-hour ceramic insert rotates, so the watch can display the time in two time zones. The date is synchronized with the local time. You can read more about how to use a GMT properly here. The edges of the bezel - like the Sea-Dweller 43mm above - have a knurled edge to offer excellent grip and allow the bezel to be turned with ease. 

This beauty however is offered on the Jubilee bracelet which pays tribute to the original GMT models. Check out Swiss Everest rubber watch bands here for this model to save your brand new Rolex Jubilee bracelet. 

It is incredibly fascinating to observe the innovations and changes Rolex has made over the years. We continue to anticipate new releases which pay tribute to past models and historical milestones but also offer technological advances. The perfect balance of past and future.