One look at this new version of the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller and you know you are looking at an intricately constructed timepiece. As it is, the Sky-Dweller is one of Rolex’s most complicated timepiece yet.

Presented in 18 ct gold with a 42mm Oyster case and fitted with an Oysterflex bracelet, the new Sky-Dweller is the first in the Classic category to feature this innovative bracelet made of high-performance elastomer.

See:Rolex presents the Oyster Perpetual collection in a new size, five new vibrant dials and a new movement

The Sky-Dweller is also the third Rolex timepiece to be paired with an elastomer bracelet, following the Cosmograph Daytona and the Yacht-Master. The beauty of the Oysterflex bracelet is that it allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds – the robustness and reliability of a metal bracelet, as well as the flexibility, comfort and functionality of an elastomer strap.

This new model features a bright black, sunray-finish dial with hands and hour markers in 18 ct yellow or Everose gold. These are encased in Rolex’s signature Oyster case, which is well-known for its robustness and reliability, and allowing the timepiece a guaranteed waterproofness to a depth of 100 metres. The waterproof Oyster case ensures optimum protection for the watch’s movement.

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Photo (L-R): Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller in 18 ct yellow gold with a bright black dial and an Oysterflex bracelet, Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller in 18 ct Everose gold case with chocolate dial and an Oysterflex bracelet

The new Sky-Dweller is also equipped with the Ring Command system, an interface between the rotatable bezel, winding crown and movement that allows the wearer to select and set the timepiece’s functions one by one, easily, quickly and securely.

What sets apart the Sky-Dweller from other GMT watches, is its ability to display the time in two time zones simultaneously whilst also featuring an annual calendar, making it the perfect timepiece for globetrotters.

The reference time, in 24-hour format, is shown via an off-centre disc, and the local time is read using conventional centre hands. The annual calendar, named Saros, automatically differentiates between 30- and 31-day months. It is operated by a patented mechanism and stands out for its innovative display: the months of the year are indicated in 12 apertures around the circumference of the dial, with the current month marked in red.

Running on calibre 9001, the Sky-Dweller is not just a beautiful timepiece, but also a sophisticated machine. With multiple patents already filed on it, this mechanical, self-winding movement is one of the most complex calibres ever created by the Swiss manufacture. Its architecture, manufacturing and innovative features make it exceptionally precise and reliable.

Interestingly, calibre 9001 debuted in 2012 with the Sky-Dweller.

Amongst the standout innovations found within the movement is a blue Parachrom hairspring manufactured by Rolex in an exclusive paramagnetic alloy that makes it up to 10 times more precise than a traditional hairspring in case of shocks. The blue Parachrom hairspring is equipped with a Rolex overcoil, ensuring the calibre’s regularity in any position. The oscillator is then fitted on the Rolex-designed and -patented high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers, increasing the movement’s shock resistance.

Calibre 9001 is equipped with a self-winding module via a Perpetual rotor and offers a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.

Similar to all Rolex watches, the Sky-Dweller is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification redefined by Rolex in 2015. With that, you can be rest assured that the timepiece has successfully undergone a series of strict tests before leaving Rolex’s workshops.

The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolised by the green seal that comes with every Rolex watch and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.

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