rolex oyster perpetual date yacht master superlative chronometer officially certified

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What is the Rolex Superlative Chronometer Standard and why does it matter?

Editor’s note: Timekeeping standards are suddenly cool again. Omega has been steadily touting the benefits of their Master Chronometer certification, Patek has their own standards, and Rolex recently upped their game with the Superlative Chronometer Standard. But what is it? This article from a while back explains everything you need to know.

Since 1951, nearly every watch leaving Rolex’s Geneva facility has been a certified Chronometer, and from 1957 onwards, Rolex has been using the term “superlative” on their dials to describe that their watches don’t just meet chronometer standards, but exceed them. Design purists might bemoan the resulting text-heavy dials that declare an Oyster to be “superlative chronometer officially certified”, but Rolex’s nigh-unimpeachable reputation for quality and accuracy has a lot invested in these words. In fact, in late 2015, the brand quietly updated their Superlative Chronometer Standards to make them even more stringent.

If you were lucky enough to get your hands on a steel Daytona or a recent Datejust 41, Rolex guarantees your watch is accurate to -2/+2 seconds per day, after casing, compared to the -4/+6 per day for the uncased movement that COSC requires, or the 0/+5 in Omega’s Master Certification. Rolex’s continued commitment to testing and accuracy doesn’t just show they recognise the importance of reliability, but that they deem it vital to be more accurate than the competition.

Rolex determines this accuracy through a series of external and internal tests. Completed movements are still sent off for official COSC certification. After this, the movement is cased and then tested using (according to brand literature) “unparalleled testing methodologies and new high-technology equipment to certify each of its watches (…) according to its own criteria which exceed watchmaking norms and standards”. These tests guarantee the performance of the watch with relation to precision, power reserve, waterproofness and self-winding, using methods that simulate real world wear and conditions. On top of that, the warranty accompanying this standard (represented by the green seal that comes with your watch) has been bumped up to five years.

What does this mean to those of us who buy and wear Rolex? Well, it means that the people who made your watch spent a lot of time and money ensuring it would provide you with class-leading accuracy and reliability now and in the future. To commit to this level of quality across Rolex’s high production is, frankly, an incredible technical achievement because it leaves so little (four seconds, to be precise) margin for error.

However, if you were inclined to be critical, you might have noticed that aside from the COSC testing, all the other testing and tweaking is internal, and not validated by an external authority, unlike Omega’s METAS-certified testing, nor does Rolex make the individual results of each watch publicly available. Rolex has never been particularly renowned for their transparency, so the fact it’s opted to keep its methods private isn’t that surprising, but given the brand’s track record and the difficulty in obtaining one, I don’t think it’s a cause for concern for most.

Yacht-Master

A valuable tool watch

A technical and elegant watch, the Yacht-Master is a reliable nautical instrument on the wrist.

Its graduated bidirectional bezel allows for precise measurement and reading of time intervals when navigating. This tool watch benefits from innovations that improve its legibility and wearers’ comfort in all circumstances.

Graduated bidirectional bezel Precision and legibility on the wrist

The bidirectional bezel with raised 60-minute graduations is a key feature of the Yacht-Master. Entirely crafted in precious metal – 18 ct Everose gold or 950 platinum – or fitted with a black Cerachrom bezel insert in high-technology ceramic, it is an essential part of the watch’s identity.

With its polished markers and numerals, which stand out clearly from the matt surface, the bezel guarantees optimal reading of time intervals, for example, the sailing time between two buoys. Furthermore, the detailed graduation of the first 15 minutes offers extra precision when reading navigational time.

The bidirectional rotating mechanism relies on a ring bearing 120 notches for precise and fluid adjustment to the nearest half-minute. Lastly, the bezel has a knurled edge, making it easy to manipulate in all conditions.

Gold, Rolesor and Rolesium Precious alloys and exclusive combinations

Rolex gold is an intrinsic part of the Yacht-Master’s identity: 18 ct yellow, white or Everose gold are comprised of 750‰ pure gold and blends of silver, copper and palladium. They are all entirely created and cast in our own foundry.

The Yacht-Master in 18 ct Everose gold is available in two diameters: 37 mm and 40 mm. Each of these versions is also available with a diamond-paved dial. The 18 ct yellow gold and 18 ct white gold versions are reserved for the Yacht-Master 42.

Rolex gold is also combined with Oystersteel – a particularly corrosion-resistant alloy – for the Everose Rolesor versions of the Yacht-Master 37 and Yacht-Master 40. They combine a bezel and centre links in Everose gold with a middle case, winding crown, case back and outer links in Oystersteel.

The Yacht-Master 37 and the Yacht-Master 40 are also available in Rolesium versions, an alliance of platinum and steel. They combine a platinum bezel with a middle case, winding crown, case back and bracelet in Oystersteel.

RLX titanium Robustness and lightness

RLX titanium made its first appearance in the Yacht-Master range in 2023. The grade 5 titanium alloy selected by Rolex is a particularly lightweight metal and is noted for its mechanical strength and corrosion resistance. Its use for the Yacht-Master 42’s case and bracelet has reduced the weight of the watch by around a third compared to a similar watch in steel. RLX titanium is complex to work with and has required the introduction of special production processes.

The combination of polished, high-sheen and technical satin finishes illustrates our excellence in machining and finishing techniques. Together, they produce a subtle blend of textures and light, setting off the gleaming polished surface of the crown guard and the lustrous high-sheen on the top edges of the lugs against the matt of the technical satin finishing – with its pronounced grain – visible on the rest of the case and bracelet.

Bracelets, clasps and extension systems Comfort and security on the wrist

Chromalight display and cyclops lens for optimal legibility.

Equipped with the Chromalight display and the Cyclops lens, the Yacht-Master combines two exclusive Rolex features that improve legibility.

The Chromalight display provides optimum legibility, whatever the light conditions. The luminescent material is applied by experts to the hands and the large hour markers which have simple shapes (triangle, circle and rectangle) that are characteristic of Rolex professional watches. Brilliant white in daylight, this material emits an intense blue glow in the dark.

Introduced in 2008, the Chromalight display was optimized in 2021 to maintain the intensity of the blue glow for longer. The performance of this luminescent substance clearly exceeds the standards required by watchmaking norms.

Designed to improve the readability of the date thanks to its magnifying effect, the Cyclops lens is both an aesthetic and technical signature of the brand. This Rolex invention was patented in the early 1950s. Like the crystal of the watch, it is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire and benefits from a double anti-reflective coating.

Calibres 3235 and 2236 Superlative performance

Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Silver Dial Chronometer Men's Watch 16622

rolex oyster perpetual date yacht master superlative chronometer officially certified

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Saturday, June 17, 2017

Rolex Superlative Chronometer Certification

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INSIDE ROLEX

Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Reference 1500

Introduced in the early 1960s and known as the slightly smaller brother to the iconic Datejust, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 1500 is the perfect vintage Rolex watch for daily wear and use. Robust enough to stand the rigors of everyday life but classic enough to be worn with a suit and tie, the Rolex Date reference shares the same in-house, chronometer-certified Perpetual movement as its larger Datejust sibling, granting it identical performance despite its smaller case diameter and lower price point.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 1500

Vintage Rolex 1500 Oyster Perpetual Date

Rolex 1500 Key Features:

Case Diameter: 34mm

Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds + Date

Materials: Stainless Steel; Stainless Steel + Gold; Yellow Gold; Rose Gold

Dial: Multiple Dial Styles and Colors Available

Bezel: Fixed; Smooth

Crystal: Acrylic w/ Cyclops Magnification Lens

Movement: Caliber 1565 (cal. 1560); Cal. 1575 (cal. 1570)

Bracelet: Oyster; Jubilee

Click here to compare the Rolex Datejust to the Rolex Date.

About the Rolex Date 1500

First appearing during the 1950s, the Rolex Date offers much of the same design and functionality as the classic 36mm Datejust, but with a smaller 34mm case diameter. Although it has existed as a number of different references over the years, the reference 1500 is the quintessential example of Rolex’s smaller date-displaying wristwatch. First appearing during the early 1960s and remaining in production through the end of the 1970s, the Rolex Date ref. 1500 was produced in a number of different materials and fitted with a variety of different dials over the course of its production.

The Rolex Date 1500 could just as easily be considered a date-displaying version of the classic 34mm Oyster Perpetual as it could a 2mm smaller version of the Datejust. Although it was never offered with quite the same range of options as the Datejust collection, the Rolex Date reference 1500 does share the exact same COSC-certified movement as Rolex’s Datejust watches from the same era. Unlike some of Rolex’s other watches with 34mm case diameters, such as the Air-King and Oysterdate (which were not chronometer-certified), the Rolex Date makes absolutely zero compromises in regards to timekeeping accuracy or overall reliability.

As one of the least expensive vintage Rolex watches, the reference 1500 Rolex Date offers tremendous value for the money, and represents classic Rolex at its very best. Aside from its functional design, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref: 1500 is an appealing timepiece to own due to its easy-to-wear design that has remained timeless throughout the past half a century. With most examples priced between $2,500 and $5,000 on the pre-owned market, it’s also incredibly affordable for a timeless classic from the world’s most famous luxury watch manufacturer. Let’s take a look at the Rolex Date 1500 and its key features in a little more detail.

Rolex Date 1500 Key Features

Despite being similar to both the 34mm Rolex Oyster Perpetual and the 36mm Rolex Datejust, the Rolex Date ref. 1500 does have some key characteristics that define the model. When it was still in production, the reference 1500 became a bit of a catch-all for Rolex’s smaller 34mm date-displaying models. Although most Rolex Date 1500 watches you will encounter are entirely stainless steel models, Rolex also produced versions in Yellow Rolesor (stainless steel and yellow gold), along with both solid yellow gold and even rose gold models.

34mm Oyster Case

The key factor that separates the Rolex Date ref. 1500 from the standard Datejust of the same era is its slightly smaller case. While the classic size of the men’s Rolex Datejust is 36mm, the case size of Rolex Date measures 34mm, similar to the Air-King and Oyster Perpetual models that Rolex was producing at that time. However, despite being 2mm smaller than the Datejust, the Oyster case of the reference 1500 Rolex Date offers the same legendary water resistance for which Rolex watches are known.

Just like the Datejust, the water-resistance of the Rolex Date ref. 1500 is achieved due to its use of a screw-down crown and case-back. By having both the winding crown and case-back screw down against the solid middle case, the Rolex Date 1500 is able to be hermetically sealed against moisture and dirt.

Acrylic Crystal with Cyclops

Like other vintage Rolex watches, the reference 1500 Date is fitted with an acrylic crystal (plastic/plexiglass) rather than one made from synthetic sapphire like on modern Rolex watches. When the ref. 1500 was first released during the early 1960s, all Rolex watches were fitted with acrylic crystals, and even though Rolex started using sapphire on certain models near the end of the reference 1500’s production run, all Rolex Date ref. 1500 watches are fitted with acrylic crystals

Additionally, much like the majority of Rolex’s other date-displaying watches, the acrylic crystal on the reference 1500 features the brand’s signature Cyclops magnification above the date window, which magnifies the calendar display by 2.5 times for facilitated viewing. Sapphire is significantly more scratch-resistant than acrylic, but acrylic can be easily polished should it receive any minor scratches and scuffs during regular wear and use. Lastly, it’s also worth noting that Rolex no longer uses acrylic crystals on its watches, so the presence of one on the Date ref. 1500 provides the watch with an unmistakable vintage look and feel.

Smooth Bezel

Although Rolex produced variations of the Date that featured different style bezels, such as the ref. 1501, ref. 1503, and ref. 1507, the classic configuration for the reference 1500 Date is with a smooth bezel, regardless of metal type. The most commonly found configuration of the watch is an entirely stainless steel model with a smooth bezel, but you will also find both two-tone and solid gold versions of the reference 1500, both of which are fitted with matching gold bezels.

With that in mind, it’s important to note that a fair number of the reference 1500 Rolex Date watches out there are fitted with other styles of bezels such as fluted or engine-turned. Some of these bezels are later-era replacements; but some were even sold that way, often at the request of the buyers. Back in the 1960s and 1970s, Rolex did not keep nearly as tight a control over its watches or retail partners, and there are numerous documented instances of certain older Rolex models having their bezels or bracelets swapped for different styles at the point of sale, as the retailer would try its best to accommodate the wishes of the customer.

COSC Chronometer Certified Movement

Another key feature of the Rolex Date reference 1500 is its chronometer-certified Perpetual movement. Just like the 36mm Datejust watches that Rolex was producing during the same era, the ref. 1500 features an automatic self-winding movement, designed and manufactured entirely in-house by Rolex and tested and certified as an official chronometer by the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).

Depending on the year of production, Rolex Date ref. 1500 watches can either be powered by the Caliber 1565 or Caliber 1575 movements. Rolex updated the movement in the reference 1500 Date from the Cal. 1565 to the Cal. 1575 around the mid-1960s. The updated movement brought with it a higher frequency of 19,800bph (compared to the 18,000 offered by the Cal. 1565) and a slightly longer power reserve (48 hours compared to 42 hours). Around 1972, the Caliber 1575 received an update, giving users the ability to “hack” the seconds, where the seconds hand comes to a complete stop when the crown is pulled out for more precise time setting. Despite the slight difference in movements, both the Caliber 1565 and Caliber 1575 (in all their forms) are COSC-certified chronometers and will promise real-world timekeeping performance that is virtually identical.

Lastly, it’s also worth noting that you will not find “1565” or “1575” engraved on the bridges of the movements for the Rolex Date ref. 1500. Just like with its larger Datejust sibling (and all other Rolex watches that rely on these calibers), the movements will all be engraved with either “1560” or “1570” as both calibers are simply the date-displaying versions of the Caliber 1560 and Caliber 1570. The bridges are the same for both the date and no-date versions of these movements, and so Rolex only made a single part for the base calibers, rather than two identical parts with different markings.

Oyster or Jubilee Bracelets

The classic configuration for the Rolex Date reference 1500 is for it to be paired with the brand’s signature three-link Oyster bracelet, but you will also find ref. 1500 watches fitted with the dressier 5-link Jubilee. Although the Jubilee bracelet was originally designed specifically for the launch of the Datejust collection in 1945, Rolex has made it available on a number of other watches over the years. Given the numerous similarities between the Rolex Date and Datejust, the Jubilee is a natural fit for the reference 1500 and it provides it with a noticeably more dressy overall appearance.

It is also worth noting that although the Rolex Date has a case that measures just 2mm smaller than the standard-size Datejust, the two watches actually have different lug width measurements and consequently use different bracelets. While the classic 36mm Datejust has a lug width of 20mm, the 34mm Rolex Date has a lug width of 19mm. While the bracelet itself is thinner, the difference is most notable at the claps, as the bracelet fitted to the ref. 1500 has a thinner clasp than the ones found on Rolex’s Datejust watches.

Rolex Date ref. 1500 Price and Availability

The 34mm Rolex Date has always been slightly less expensive than the 36mm Datejust; however, the difference in price becomes even greater on the pre-owned market. Although performance will be virtually identical between the reference 1500 Rolex Date and its larger Datejust siblings from the 4-digit reference number generation, you can typically find the 34mm ref. 1500 available for a significant discount compared to their 36mm Datejust counterparts.

While you might expect to pay somewhere in the neighborhood of $4,000 to $5,000 for a stainless steel Datejust from this era, most stainless steel Rolex Date reference 1500 watches can be found for anywhere between $2,500 and $3,500. This only represents a minor step up in price compared to other 34mm vintage Rolex models, such as the Air-King ref. 5500, but the reference 1500 also offers chronometer-certification in addition to the additional date complication. Although two-tone and solid gold examples can easily sell for over $5,000, the classic stainless steel Rolex Date ref. 1500 is one of the least expensive vintage Rolex watches available, making it an excellent point of entry for those looking to start a vintage Rolex collection.

Best Value Vintage Rolex

Often overlooked in favor of Rolex’s various vintage sports watch references, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date reference 1500 is one of the last affordable vintage Rolex models out there. Simpler in price to a 34mm Oyster Perpetual or Air-King from the same era, the Rolex Date ref. 1500 arguably offers more bang-for-buck than either, boasting a movement that is both chronometer-certified and date-displaying.

Furthermore, while the Rolex Date 1500 offers the exact same COSC-certified movement as its larger Datejust siblings, it is significantly less expensive than any of the 36mm Datejust watches that make up the 4-digit reference generation. Lastly, with the addition of the Cyclops magnification lens on the crystal – an inherently-Rolex design trait – the reference 1500 Date offers all of the same classic and timeless styling that defines vintage Rolex watches.

The classic and timeless design of the Rolex Date ref. 1500 is as relevant today as it was when it first appeared back in the early 1960s. With features like an incredibly versatile case size, a reliable chronometer-certified movement, and an inherently-retro acrylic crystal, the Rolex 1500 offers near-unparalleled value among the various vintage Rolex watches out there. Additionally, due to the wide range of dials and materials, there are countless variations out there, making the Rolex reference 1500 an excellent option for first-time buyers and seasoned collectors alike.

About Paul Altieri

Paul Altieri is a vintage and pre-owned Rolex specialist, entrepreneur, and the founder and CEO of BobsWatches.com. - the largest and most trusted name in luxury watches. He is widely considered a pioneer in the industry for bringing transparency and innovation to a once-considered stagnant industry. His experience spans over 35 years and he has been published in numerous publications including Forbes, The NY Times, WatchPro, and Fortune Magazine. Paul is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the watch industry and e-commerce, and regularly engages with other professionals in the industry. He is a member of the IWJG, the AWCI and a graduate of the GIA. Alongside running the premier retailer of pre-owned Rolex watches, Paul is a prominent Rolex watch collector himself amassing one of the largest private collections of rare timepieces. In an interview with the WSJ lifestyle/fashion editor Christina Binkley, Paul opened his vault to display his extensive collection of vintage Rolex Submariners and Daytonas. Paul Altieri is a trusted and recognized authority in the watch industry with a proven track record of expertise, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

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GMT-Master II

THE COSMOPOLITAN WATCH

The Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II was designed to display the time in two different time zones simultaneously. Robust and functional, it is the ideal watch for criss-crossing the globe.

In function as well as in name, the GMT-Master II evokes long-distance travel across time zones. Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) marks mean solar time at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London – historically the location of the official prime meridian used for calculating longitude and determining different time zones around the world. A cosmopolitan watch, the GMT-Master II is designed for those who criss-cross the globe or whose activities take place simultaneously across several time zones.

ACROSS TIME ZONES Launched in 1955, the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master witnessed the rapid expansion of intercontinental travel in the latter half of the 20th century. It even became the official watch of Pan American World Airways, better known worldwide as Pan Am, the most prominent American intercontinental airline at the time. In 1959, a major event marked the partnership: the first non-stop Pan Am Jet Clipper flight from New York to Moscow. The captain was wearing a GMT-Master, which was used as a navigation aid during the flight. The GMT-Master, a true ‘tool watch’, evolved continually to offer increasing technical performance. In 1982, Rolex introduced a new movement that allowed the hour hand to be set independently of the other hands. To clearly mark this evolution, and to avoid any confusion with the GMT-Master, the model fitted with the optimized movement was named the GMT-Master II.

24-HOUR DISPLAY AND INDEPENDENT HOUR HAND In addition to conventional hour, minute and seconds hands, which display the local time (the time in the wearer’s current location), the GMT-Master II features an arrow-tipped hand which circles the dial once every 24 hours, as well as a bidirectional rotatable bezel and a 24-hour graduated monobloc Cerachrom insert in two-colour ceramic. When the bezel is in the neutral position, that is with the triangle at 12 o’clock, the 24-hour hand displays a reference time (home time, for example), which can be read using the graduations on the bezel . When abroad, travellers can set the local time easily, with the hour hand ‘ jumping ’ from hour to hour thanks to a mechanism operated via the winding crown. The adjustment can be made independently of the minute and seconds hands, and without affecting the 24-hour hand. As a result, travellers can simultaneously read their local time as well as the reference time .

ROTATABLE BEZEL AND ALTERNATIVE TIME ZONE The time in an alternative time zone can be displayed by simply turning the rotatable bezel. In this case, the reference time is no longer shown, as it is the alternative time zone that is now read via the 24-hour hand against the graduations on the bezel. The bezel was carefully designed to ideally fulfil its function. Rolex developed a bezel rotation system with a trigonal spring that allows the bezel to be turned crisply and securely in either direction and locate with a positive click in each of the 24 different hour positions. The bezel can be turned with ease thanks to its knurled edge, which offers excellent grip.

CERACHROM BEZEL INSERT The bidirectional rotatable bezel of the GMT-Master II is equipped with a 24-hour graduated, monobloc two-colour Cerachrom insert. This patented insert is made of extremely hard, virtually scratchproof ceramics whose colours are unaffected by ultraviolet rays. In addition, thanks to its chemical composition, the high-tech ceramic is inert and cannot corrode. The moulded, recessed graduations and numerals are coated with gold or platinum using a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) process. Over and above its functions and its intrinsic technical assets, the bezel of the GMT-Master II contributes to the model’s strong visual identity. In 2013, Rolex broke new ground when it introduced its first single-piece, two-colour ceramic bezel insert – blue on one half and black on the other – on an Oystersteel version of the GMT-Master II. A year later, it unveiled the two-colour bezel insert in red and blue ceramic, on a GMT-Master II in 18 ct white gold. In 2018, the brand presented a two-colour bezel insert in brown and black ceramic, on two variants of the GMT-Master II – one in 18 ct Everose gold and the other in an Everose Rolesor version (combining Oystersteel and Everose gold). The two-colour bezel insert in green and black ceramic was introduced in 2022 on an Oystersteel GMT-Master II with the winding crown on the left side of the case and the date aperture at 9 o’clock – the only Rolex watch with this configuration. In 2023, a two-colour Cerachrom insert in grey – a new shade – and black was unveiled on two variants of the model, one in a yellow Rolesor version (combining Oystersteel and yellow gold) and the other crafted entirely from 18 ct yellow gold. These Cerachrom inserts blend the exceptional resistance of high-technology ceramic with the iconic aesthetics of the original GMT-Master.

THE GMT-MASTER II, SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER CERTIFIED Like all Rolex watches, the GMT-Master II is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification redefined by Rolex in 2015. This exclusive designation testifies that every watch leaving the brand’s workshops has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories and according to its own criteria. These certification tests apply to the fully assembled watch, after casing the movement, guaranteeing superlative performance on the wrist in terms of precision, power reserve, waterproofness and self-winding. The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolized by the green seal that comes with every Rolex watch and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee. The precision of every movement – officially certified as a chronometer by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) – is tested a second time by Rolex after being cased, to ensure that it meets criteria that are far stricter than those of the official certification. The precision of a Rolex Superlative Chronometer is of the order of −2/+2 seconds per day – the rate deviation tolerated by the brand for a finished watch is significantly smaller than that accepted by COSC for official certification of the movement alone. The Superlative Chronometer certification testing is carried out after casing using state-of-the-art equipment specially developed by Rolex and according to an exclusive protocol that simulates the conditions in which a watch is actually worn and more closely represents real-life experience. The entirely automated series of tests also checks the waterproofness, the self-winding capacity and the power reserve of 100 per cent of Rolex watches. These tests systematically complement the qualification testing during development and production, in order to ensure the watches’ reliability, robustness, and resistance to strong magnetic fields and to shocks.

THE OYSTER CASE, SYMBOL OF WATERPROOFNESS The GMT-Master II’s Oyster case, 40 mm in diameter and guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet), is a paragon of robustness and reliability. The middle case is crafted from a solid block of Oystersteel or 18 ct gold. The case back, edged with fine fluting, is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that allows only certified Rolex watchmakers to access the movement. The Triplock winding crown, fitted with a triple waterproofness system and protected by an integral crown guard, screws down securely against the case. The crystal, with a Cyclops lens for easy reading of the date at 3 o’clock – or at 9 o’clock on the version with the winding crown on the left side of the case – is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire and benefits from an anti-reflective coating. The waterproof Oyster case provides optimal protection for the movement it houses.

CALIBRE 3285 The GMT-Master II is equipped with calibre 3285, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. A consummate demonstration of technology, this movement carries a number of patents. It offers outstanding performance, particularly in terms of precision, power reserve, convenience and reliability.

Calibre 3285 incorporates the patented Chronergy escapement, made of nickel-phosphorus, which combines high energy efficiency with great dependability and is also resistant to strong magnetic fields.

The movement is fitted with the blue Parachrom hairspring, manufactured by Rolex in a paramagnetic alloy. In addition to resisting strong magnetic fields, this hairspring offers great stability in the face of temperature variations as well as high resistance to shocks. It is equipped with a Rolex overcoil, ensuring the calibre’s regularity in any position.

The oscillator of calibre 3285 has a large balance wheel with variable inertia regulated extremely precisely via gold Microstella nuts. It is held firmly in place by a height-adjustable traversing bridge enabling very stable positioning to increase shock resistance. The oscillator is also mounted on the Rolex-designed, patented high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers, further enhancing the movement’s shock resistance.

Calibre 3285 is equipped with a self-winding system via a Perpetual rotor, which ensures continuous winding of the mainspring by harnessing the movements of the wrist to provide a constant source of energy. Its oscillating weight has been fitted with an optimized ball bearing since 2023. Thanks to its barrel architecture and the escapement’s superior efficiency, the power reserve of this movement extends to approximately 70 hours.

The GMT-Master II’s movement will be seen only by certified Rolex watchmakers, yet it is beautifully finished and decorated. Since 2023, it has also been marked with the words ‘Chronometer Perpetual’ and ‘Superlative Adjusted’ engraved respectively on the oscillating weight and on the bridges.

BRACELET AND CLASP: SECURE AND COMFORTABLE The GMT-Master II is available on a three-piece link Oyster bracelet or a five-piece link Jubilee bracelet. These two bracelets are equipped with a Rolex-designed, patented Oysterlock safety clasp that prevents accidental opening. They are fitted with the Easylink comfort extension link, developed by the brand, which allows the wearer to easily increase the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm, providing additional comfort in any circumstance. On the 18 ct gold versions of the GMT-Master II, the Oyster and Jubilee bracelets include ceramic inserts – designed by Rolex and patented – inside the links to enhance their flexibility and longevity.

Sky-Dweller

.css-1c7en8u{font-size:clamp(1.375rem, 1.25rem + 0.3125vw, 3.125rem);line-height:1.1;margin-bottom:1rem;} Submariner Date .css-1g7r01k{font-weight:300;font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.9375rem + 0.1563vw, 1.25rem);line-height:1.2;text-wrap:balance;}.css-1g7r01k span{display:block;} Oyster, 41 mm, Oystersteel and yellow gold Reference 126613LN

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Deep confidence

The Oyster Perpetual Submariner Date in Oystersteel and yellow gold with a Cerachrom bezel insert in black ceramic and a black dial with large luminescent hour markers.

Unidirectional rotatable bezel, an underwater tool.

The Submariner's rotatable bezel is a key functionality of the watch. Its 60-minute graduations allow a diver to accurately and safely monitor diving time and decompression stops.

Manufactured by Rolex from a hard, corrosion-resistant ceramic, the Cerachrom bezel insert is virtually scratchproof. A luminescent capsule on the zero marker ensures legibility, no matter how dark the environment. The bezel’s knurled edge is carefully designed to offer excellent grip under water, even with gloves.

For legibility underwater

The dial’s luminescent Chromalight display is an innovation that improved visibility in dark environments, an essential feature for divers.

Hour markers in simple shapes – triangles, circles, rectangles – and broad hour and minute hands enable instant and reliable reading to prevent any risk of confusion underwater.

Yellow Rolesor

A meeting of two metals.

Gold is coveted for its lustre and nobility. Steel reinforces strength and reliability. Together, they harmoniously combine the best of their properties.

A true Rolex signature, Rolesor has featured on Rolex models since the early 1930s, and was trademarked as a name in 1933. It is one of the prominent pillars of the Oyster collection.

The Oyster bracelet

Alchemy of form and function.

The Oyster bracelet is a perfect alchemy of form and function, aesthetics and technology, designed to be both robust and comfortable.

It is equipped with an Oysterlock clasp, which prevents accidental opening, and an ingenious Glidelock, allowing fine adjustments of the bracelet without using any tools — and allowing it to be worn comfortably over a diving suit.

More Submariner technical details

Reference 126613LN

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Oyster, 41 mm, Oystersteel and yellow gold

Oyster architecture

Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

Yellow Rolesor - combination of Oystersteel and yellow gold

Unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated, scratch-resistant Cerachrom insert in black ceramic, numerals and graduations coated in gold

Winding crown

Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system

Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date

Water resistance

Waterproof to 300 metres / 1,000 feet

Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding

3235, Manufacture Rolex

-2/+2 sec/day, after casing

Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting

Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers

Bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor

Power reserve

Approximately 70 hours

Oyster, three-piece solid links

Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system

Highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence

Certification

Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing)

Learn how to set the time and other functions of your Rolex watch by consulting our user guides.

Submariner Date

Contact an Official Rolex Jeweler

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

Rolex Yacht-Master
Oyster Perpetual. Yacht-Master Play the video ... the founder of Rolex, Hans Wilsdorf, had one of the brand's watches tested by this very observatory, which certified it as a chronometer: a first in the watchmaking world for a wristwatch. ... 18 ct yellow, white and Everose gold - as well as in Everose Rolesor and Rolesium versions, the ...
Rolex Yacht-Master 40 watch: Oystersteel and platinum
The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 40 in Oystersteel and platinum with an Oyster bracelet. ... Cyclops lens over the date. Water resistance. Waterproof to 100 metres / 330 feet. Movement. ... Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing) User guide.
The Rolex Yacht-Master Models
The Yacht-Master's movements will be seen only by certified Rolex watchmakers, yet they are beautifully finished and decorated. Since 2023, calibre 3235 has also been marked with the words 'Chronometer Perpetual' and 'Superlative Adjusted' engraved respectively on the oscillating weight and on the bridges.
Rolex Yacht-Master
The ideal Rolex watches for water sports and sailing. Discover the Yacht-Master models, a combination of character, performance and robustness. ... Day-Date; Explorer; GMT-Master II; Oyster Perpetual; Sea-Dweller; Deepsea; Sky-Dweller; Submariner; Yacht-Master; 1908; Watchmaking. At the core of excellence; Behind the seal;
OYSTER PERPETUAL YACHT-MASTER 42
Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42 — ©Rolex/Ulysse Frechelin - Open lightbox PERPETUAL CALIBRE 3235 The new version of the Yacht-Master 42 is equipped with calibre 3235, a movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex that was released in 2015 and has been fitted on this model since its launch in 2019.
What is the Rolex Superlative Chronometer Standard?
Since 1951, nearly every watch leaving Rolex's Geneva facility has been a certified Chronometer, and from 1957 onwards, Rolex has been using the term "superlative" on their dials to describe that their watches don't just meet chronometer standards, but exceed them. Design purists might bemoan the resulting text-heavy dials that declare ...
PDF SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER CERTIFICATION
This designation would thereafter be combined with the 'Officially Certified Chronometer' marking which already featured on the dial of Rolex watches, to constitute the well-known phrase 'Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified'. This new inscription first appeared in the late 1950s on Datejust and Day-Date models.
Swanky Sailor: Reviewing the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master
The entire construction ensures rate results that bring the Yacht-Master (as well as the other watches in the Oyster collection) to the rank of "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified." These words on the Yacht-Master's dial mean that the watch has endured 15 days and nights of testing by COSC in addition to a series of tests ...
Rolex Yacht-Master
The Rolesium and Everose Rolesor versions of the Yacht-Master 37 and Yacht-Master 40, as well as the Yacht-Master 42 in RLX titanium, are equipped with our Oyster bracelet. Developed in the late 1930s, this metal bracelet remains the most universal in the Oyster Perpetual collection.
Master Chronometer vs Superlative Chronometer
Magnetic resistance: Master Chronometer tests up to 15,000 gauss resistance. Superlative Chronometer tests up to 10,000 gauss. Temperature range: Master Chronometer tests between 0 to 50 degrees C. Superlative Chronometer between -10 to +50 degrees C. Timing precision: Master Chronometer requires -0 to +5 seconds/day average.
16622
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 16622 is a luxurious timepiece that boasts a sleek and stylish design. Featuring a stainless steel case and oyster bracelet, it is 40mm in diameter and is adorned with a platinum bezel. The silver dial has dot and index hour markers for enhanced visibility. The watch also features an automatic chronometer-certified ...
Rolex Superlative Chronometer Certification
The designation "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified" inscribed on the dial of each Oyster is a true signature of Rolex watches. Formulated in the late 1950s, this inscription symbolizes the brand's tireless pursuit of chronometric excellence, given the pioneering role it played in developing wristwatch precision from early in the ...
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 watch: Oystersteel
Discover the Oyster Perpetual 36 watch in Oystersteel on the Official Rolex Website. Model:m126000-0003 ... Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing) ... Yacht-Master; 1908; Watchmaking. At the core of excellence; Behind the seal; Rolex anatomy; Rolex and sports. Tennis;
The Rolex technical features
Discover our watches on rolex.com. Our corporate commitments on rolex.org. Discover the technical features of Rolex Superlative Chronometer on the Official Rolex Newsroom website.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Automatic Superlative Chronometer
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Listing: $2,929 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Automatic Superlative Chronometer..., Reference number 1500; Steel; Automatic; Condition Very good; Year 1970; Location: India, Mumba ... Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Superlative Chronometer officially certified for Ref. 16014 • 16030 • 16200 • 16220 • 16234 ...
Vintage Rolex 1500 Oyster Perpetual Date Review
As one of the least expensive vintage Rolex watches, the reference 1500 Rolex Date offers tremendous value for the money, and represents classic Rolex at its very best. Aside from its functional design, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date ref: 1500 is an appealing timepiece to own due to its easy-to-wear design that has remained timeless throughout ...
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Superlative Chronometer Officially
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Listing: $4,675 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Superlative Chronometer Officially..., Reference number 15000; Steel; Automatic; Condition Good; Year 1966; Location: United States of ... Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified 14K (585)Solid Gold Ref.1005 $ 6,185
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified 14K
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Listing: $6,185 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Superlative Chronometer Officially..., Reference number Rolex Oyster Perpetual Superlative Chronometer ,; Yellow gold; Automatic; Co
rolex oyster perpetual date yacht master superlative chronometer
Shop New Arrivals. Master Chronometer vs Superlative Chronometer. Accuracy has always been an important point of pride and marketing for luxury watch brands. For over a century, t
The Rolex GMT-Master II Models
the gmt-master ii, superlative chronometer certified Like all Rolex watches, the GMT-Master II is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification redefined by Rolex in 2015. This exclusive designation testifies that every watch leaving the brand's workshops has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own ...
Rolex Submariner Date watch: Oystersteel and yellow gold
The Oyster Perpetual Submariner Date in Oystersteel and yellow gold with a Cerachrom bezel insert in black ceramic and a black dial with large luminescent hour markers. ... Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing) ... Yacht-Master; 1908; Watchmaking. At the core of excellence; Behind the seal; Rolex anatomy;
rolex yacht master superlative chronometer officially certified price
WATCH REVIEW. Swanky sailor: reviewing the rolex oyster perpetual yacht-master. In this feature from the WatchTime archives, we take a close look at the modern version of Rolex s