Which rolex model best executes the new design direction?

[Preacher]

Give it time and the older versions will start to look more and more dated.

[The GMT Master]

From a purely aesthetic standpoint, the GMT IIc executes the "super case" best, I think the Explorer II is nice as well as it keeps the traditional case proportions and lines whilst taking on a more modern size. The Sub C has nothing to break up the blockiness, and the DSSD is really unbalanced compared to other big divers.

[Eggsy]

I prefer all the newer models over their older versions. I think they have a more modern up to date look.


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[Rolex-10]

I prefer the new super cases.
In line with the bigger watch fashion and feels nice and heavy on the wrist.

[GradyPhilpott]

The AK, OP, Date, and DJ all work very well in my opinion and I personally like my 116200 quite a lot.

I've never been a fan of the 116 Subs, but I think for some reason that the 114060 is a smash hit, although I'm still very pleased with my 14060M and have no intention of flipping it or adding a 114060 to my modest collection.

I think that the 214270 is a nice watch, but I still prefer the 114270.

The 216570 is growing on me a bit, but I doubt that I'll ever have one, although I'd like to have the second time-zone feature. Forty-two millimeters is a bit much in my opinion.

The 116710 line comprises some beautiful watches, to be sure, but I'm still partial to the 16710 line.

[kxux]

Originally Posted by psv

Not a huge fan of the new cases with fatter lugs, I think the model that looks the best of the new ones is the 116718.

That is brilliant photo. I agree - it looks stunning plus I love the complication. Most useful one for what I need.

[tfduff723]

This one in my opinion

[Chaching]

I'll jump in......both of these are moving Rolex in the right direction or I wouldn't have purchased them! The bigger cases and maxi dials are awesome! Love em'!!! In my own humble opinion the GMT IIC 18K SOLID GOLD is just breathtaking! AMAZING WATCH! For the price I think it's priced very fair!


Rol Exp Gmt11.jpg

[Magic-Matt]

Originally Posted by Chaching

I'll jump in......both of these are moving Rolex in the right direction or I wouldn't have purchased them! The bigger cases and maxi dials are awesome! Love em'!!! In my own humble opinion the GMT IIC 18K SOLID GOLD is just breathtaking! AMAZING WATCH! For the price I think it's priced very fair!


Attachment 390260

Interesting, the Exp is 42mm and the GMT 40mm? They actually look the same size on this photo?

[Miguel Alvarez]

The new subs are nice and the sky dweller is growing on me. Not a fan of the new exp 2's size but each to their own.

I also like the new exp 1. Think they nailed it with that watch.

[bardm]

I think the GMT IIc was a real improvement over the old GMT II and the best looking of the maxi-case models.

[~JJ]

The 39mm explorer case is the best redesign...IMO. Keeps the traditional oyster shape while being enlarged to a more modern size and slides under the cuff with zero effort!

[Mystro]

Bigger sport watches are here to stay. Rolex will always be the last to the party. Rolex will introduce more models in the larger size. I'd bet money on it.

[subtona]

My favorite of the new bunch is the explorer II.

It gives the case a modest but authentic increase in size.

[Chaching]

Originally Posted by subtona

My favorite of the new bunch is the explorer II.

It gives the case a modest but authentic increase in size.

-Agreed. The new Explorer II 42mm is a VAST improvement over the old model! I just love this watch!

[AK797]

Originally Posted by psv

Not a huge fan of the new cases with fatter lugs, I think the model that looks the best of the new ones is the 116718.

This and the chocolate ceramic Daytona herald the future direction of Rolex and are arguably two of their most beautiful ever creations, just a great time to be a Rolex fan.

[LA_LEC]

Originally Posted by Preacher

Give it time and the older versions will start to look more and more dated.

God I hope so!

[Chainring]

Originally Posted by busytimmy

Same here. I really like the SubC LV and Explorer II so I bought them both

The guy I was traveling with yesterday was wearing a new SubC so we swapped watches to check each other's out. For me, the build quality of the SubC was better than my GMT Master II (16710) in every aspect. I could feel more weight, better quality bracelet, better quality clasp and I loved the ceramic bezel, the dial and of course the beefier look. Althought the 16710 and SubC are technically the same 40mm they sure don't look like it. Must...have...one...soon.

[Chaching]

The new Rolex models are miles ahead of the old models as far as bracelet, case, bezel (ceramic) etc.... just no comparison!!! While I love my older Rolexes ...they feel lighter and just cheaper compared to the new ones!

[Billywiz]

Im in the camp that thinks the new case is a mistake and much prefer the more elegant smaller case...guess we will see what stands the test of time. My vote goes for classic elegance over what I perceive is a fashion whim...just my opinion - its all in the eye of the beholder.

I have bought all my grails since the larger cases were released. I bought a Daytona and President in YG a TT GMT and an Explorer. I did this do I could have and own the classic sizes and not the larger...I love my collection and will stick here...good luck!

[Chainring]

Well I was predicting a movement to bigger cases and now I hope they don't. I tried on the 42mm Explorer II today at an AD and realized it was probably too big for my 6.5" wrist. While the lugs don't extend over the edges of my wrist they completely cover the top of my wrist, leaving only a couple mm on each side.

[Ravager135]

Originally Posted by Chaching

I'll jump in......both of these are moving Rolex in the right direction or I wouldn't have purchased them! The bigger cases and maxi dials are awesome! Love em'!!! In my own humble opinion the GMT IIC 18K SOLID GOLD is just breathtaking! AMAZING WATCH! For the price I think it's priced very fair!


Attachment 390260

I agree with you here. I think the greatest success in the shift Rolex has made is first and foremost the Explorer II. It took a classic and really modernized it while retaining the DNA of the original. It did everything right including adding the 2mm to give the sports lineup some variation. Some people see the larger case as a trend all models should go and I quite disagree. The Explorer II should be a counterpoint to the GMT Master II. You can get it in a white dial and slightly larger.

Mentioning the GMTIIC, I also think this model was a huge success design-wise. I don't like the supercase with the wider lugs but the rest of the upgrades make this watch far superior to its predecessor in functionality. The 24 click bezel alone makes it a success.

Before I get a bunch of hate from those who like the classics, let me say, there is nothing wrong with the older models. We all agree what an icon a Pepsi GMT Master II is but to deny that the 24 click ceramic bezel with cut numbers isn't a functional upgrade would be equally ludicrous. The advantage the classic models have is they feel more like tool watches than the newer models which have a far more luxurious feel. I appreciate both. I just like the direction the 216570 and 116710 (and it's variations) went.

[Chainring]

Originally Posted by Ravager135

I just like the direction the 216570 and 116710 (and it's variations) went.

Absolutely agree with you. All companies that want to survive have to evolve with the markets, advances in technology and change in styles. How many people are still wearing the same style watches that were being produced in the 50s or earlier? What I love about Rolex is that they produce watches that can be worn and appreciated over a period of several generations and the styles evolve slowly. I believe the evolution going on with Rolex right now is timely and needed based on what is going on in the market and current consumer tastes.