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OrangeSport
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So, I've been wearing this for five days now and have a good idea what it's all about. I have been considering a new watch for some time, and have had a huge range on the list. There were Breitling Colts at one end, with their HAQ movements, and JLC Reversos with hand wound movements at the other. In between there was all sorts, from Grand Seikos to Cartier Calibre Divers. And, of course, Rolex.
I'm a sucker for Rolex. The feel, the presence, the quality, the history and the name. I also prefer no date watches in general, in part for their symmetry and because I'm lazy. If it's a mechanical that's run down then setting the time's enough for me! I was really torn between the Explorer and the OP. The Explorer has the better clasp, and all that famous history. But, it is so similar to my Sub 14060M. The Oyster Pertpetual is different; different hands, different markers and different size. It is a bit dressier, and comes in some amazing colours.
First, the obvious point. It's only 36mm! Yes, it is, but you would never know. It wears just "right", and with the new clasp and bracelet (which I'll get to later) it is quite weighty. It could be the perfect one watch for all occasions. Sporty, but elegant. Hefty, but slips under a shirt cuff. Luxurious, but subtle.
The applied markers add real depth to the dial, which is mesmerising. The light dances across the face, changing it from almost black to purple and on towards pink. Simply stunning!
The bracelet and clasp are really, really impressive. I'll be clear here and say I have no issues with Rolex's older hollow end link bracelets and stamped clasps. They have proved themselves long lived and reliable. This is a real step up though. The bracelet feels much more robust than previous models and the clasp is very reassuring, even without the diver flip-lock. The extra weight makes the watch feel much more solid. It's heavier to wear than an older two tone DateJust I have borrowed before.
The fit and finish are both impeccable. The combination of brushed and polished steel, the bracelet's fit to the case and the feel of the screw down crown are all spot on. It might be at the bottom of Rolex's range, but it feels like a real quality item. And, of course, it sings. Have you ever held a Rolex to your ear and let it run a full minute? The tune changes as the second hand sweeps around the face....
Any downsides? Well, it's well outside of COSC standards at the moment. I'll let it bed in, but both our other Rolex needed a quick tweak when they were new to run accurately. A bit inconvenient, but no big deal. If it's the same over the weekend I'll drop it off at the Rolex Service Centre in Kent next week to be regulated.
These retail for £3600, so they aren't cheap. But, I do think they offer really good value for money and the full Rolex experience for a relatively low outlay. And of course, being a Rolex, it's always one of the safer watches to sink your cash into long term.
Thanks for reading.
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