Watches & Wonders 2023
The first day of the Watches & Wonders show in Geneva already provided some surprises. Rolex presented interesting novelties, but especially the choice of discontinued watches was sometimes very surprising. We summarize for you:
The "John Mayer" Cosmograph Daytona, Ref. 116508
Let's start with a particularly popular variant of the Cosmograph Daytona: the Ref. 116508 in yellow gold with a green dial. Quite unexpectedly, this watch can no longer be found on the Rolex website and thus has most likely been discontinued. It was precisely the deep green dial that delighted watch lovers around the world.
Radiant blue: the Cosmograph Daytona, Ref. 116509
Another surprise was the discontinuation of the Cosmograph Daytona, Ref. 116509. The model in white gold captivates with the radiant dial in blue, which is usual for Rolex. Some will certainly miss this model, but as a small consolation, the Day-Date as well as the Datejust are still available with the blue dial.
In the name of science - the Milgauss series
The discontinuation of the Milgauss series, on the other hand, is hardly surprising, as there had already been discussions about a possible discontinuation for several years. Some expected an upgrade, others were sure early on that the Milgauss would be flying out of the range. The anti-magnetic watch was designed for scientists and engineers and resists magnetic fields of up to 1,000 gauss.
The end of the Cellini dress watch
The elegant Cellini series has also been discontinued. The Cellini combines noble design with high-quality materials and is one of the most popular dresswatches from Rolex. But dresswatch fans have reason to rejoice, there is a venerable successor to the Cellini: the Perpetual 1908, which we will take a closer look at in the next article.
Farewell from space: The Cosmograph Daytona models with meteorite dials
Meteorite dials are one of the specialties from the house of Rolex. The meteorites used for the dials are the remains of exploded asteroids. In a complex process, the liquid asteroid core is slowly cooled, creating the metallic pattern on the finished dials. Now this dial has been discontinued for the Cosmograph Daytona models. Those interested in this particular dial may still find it, as the meteorite dial is still available for the Day-Date 40 as well as the GMT-Master II.
As a watch enthusiast deeply immersed in the world of haute horlogerie, I can provide comprehensive insights into the latest developments from Watches & Wonders 2023. This year's event in Geneva brought forth some intriguing revelations, especially in the realm of Rolex novelties and discontinuations.
Let's delve into the key concepts presented in the article:
Rolex Novelties and Discontinuations at Watches & Wonders 2023:
1. "John Mayer" Cosmograph Daytona, Ref. 116508 - Yellow Gold with Green Dial:
- A highly sought-after variant featuring yellow gold and a distinctive green dial.
- Notably, this model has unexpectedly vanished from the Rolex website, indicating its discontinuation. Its allure primarily rested on the captivating green dial, cherished by watch aficionados worldwide.
2. Cosmograph Daytona, Ref. 116509 - White Gold with Radiant Blue Dial:
- Another surprising discontinuation was observed in the Ref. 116509 model, crafted in white gold and adorned with a radiant blue dial, a signature Rolex hue.
- While this particular model bids adieu, the blue dial remains available in other Rolex models such as the Day-Date and Datejust, offering solace to enthusiasts who favor this colorway.
3. Milgauss Series - Designed for Scientists and Engineers:
- The anticipated discontinuation of the Milgauss series materialized during Watches & Wonders 2023.
- Originally designed for professionals exposed to magnetic fields, the Milgauss boasted resistance to up to 1,000 gauss, showcasing Rolex's commitment to functionality and innovation.
4. End of the Cellini Dress Watch Line:
- The elegant Cellini series, renowned for its fusion of refined design and premium materials, has been discontinued.
- However, enthusiasts can anticipate the emergence of the Perpetual 1908, slated as a successor to the Cellini line, promising a closer examination in subsequent articles.
5. Farewell to Cosmograph Daytona Models with Meteorite Dials:
- Rolex's use of meteorite dials, crafted from the remnants of exploded asteroids, has come to an end for the Cosmograph Daytona models.
- Although discontinued for this particular series, the meteorite dial remains available for the Day-Date 40 and the GMT-Master II, providing an avenue for those captivated by this distinct dial material.
The Watches & Wonders 2023 event unveiled both anticipated and unexpected changes within Rolex's lineup, ushering in a mix of farewells and glimpses of successors, captivating enthusiasts and collectors alike. This shift in offerings underscores Rolex's commitment to evolving its collections while preserving the essence of craftsmanship and innovation that defines the brand.
