Miranda
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Baselworld 2014 Rolex and Tudor report. Part 1 Rolex

GMT Master

After last years debut of the worlds first bi-colour ceramic bezel, the question on everyone's lips was of course can they make a blue -red bezel, aka the "Pepsi"

 Well many thought this was not possible, and indeed if we re-examine the process by which the blue-black was produced it wouldn't be. But this is Rolex, and they have used a new technique, which relies on a liquid solution to be added to half the bezel mid way during the manufacturing process to make the red go blue. Sounds easy but when you consider just how precise the red/blue border is , its actually extremely difficult. Hence the reason why the model is released in white gold not steel. It was rumoured that the bezel insert costs as much as 2500 CHF to produce. Rolex would not have been able to produce it in steel without a substantial price hike. The problem is in producing a red ceramic bezel. I would not wait for a red-black" coke" as the problems will be just the same, when I asked informally, I was told it "wasn't happening tomorrow".

As for the aesthetic of the bezel, the red is a beautiful colour, which in certain light has pinkish tone. The blue definitely has a purple overtone. It is truly a beautiful piece and once again showcases the technological prowess of Rolex.

Rolex Sea Dweller 4000

The return of an icon. The Deep Sea was a technological masterpiece, in fact it was the homage to the Deep Sea Challenge. What we have here is the spiritual successor to the legendary 1665 Sea-Dweller.

Was I impressed?  Lets just say my order for one has gone in ! It is perfect, the case is substantial but not "boxy"  like the Submariner series. I honestly could not find anything to fault - its perfect. I am glad they retained the military style bezel markers.

and with its Great grandfather

Rolex Milgauss "Electric blue"

I don't think any of us expected this one. When I saw the manufacture pictures I was not convinced. The green glass just seemed to be uncomplimentary to the blue. BUT, my goodness, you have to see this piece in the flesh, its amazing. I don't know how, but it just works. The dial has  beautiful sunburst finish. I think this makes for a modern classic.

Rolex Sky-Dweller

New variations of the Rolex annual calendar complication. The roles have been reversed with the ever rose now with a new dial and bracelet, whilst the white and yellow gold versions are now available on leather  straps. The black dial on the WG version was particularly appealing. I think that dial on the WG bracelet version would be a knock out.

Did you notice the month display? its now a very Rolex red!!

Rolex Oyster Perpetual

The quintessential Rolex. This year with new dials, purple grape and white grape. The purple is gorgeous, if this was 39mm.........

Jewellery pieces

Last year we were presented with the astounding platinum Daytona. A legend in the making. This year we see a new jewelled version. Probably not for watch enthusiasts but nonetheless as a piece of jewellery, it is stunning. I am always taken back by the immaculate stones Rolex use  and the precision by which they are set.

Continuing with the jewellery theme the new Datejust Pearlmaster 34:

I think these are stunning, an imagine them with a matching necklace, ear rings and bracelet! Fit for any red carpet event.

Finally the teaser.....was it a moon phase? no, its the Cellini collection!

Now before I start, do not think of these pieces as Cellini.....what we have is a homage piece to the 1940's Oyster. The fine fluted bezel, the screw back, the lug, its pre history, dressed up as a Cellini!

You have to see them to appreciate what I am saying, I believe that this is the perfect Rolex dress watch to accompany the Oyster

There are three versions, time only, with date and twin time (with sun moon indicator).

Hope you enjoyed this tour of Rolex, part 2 to follow...Tudor!

Baselworld 2014: Part 2 Tudor

Best

Imran

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