Rolex’s Latest Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller Is Proof That Change Is Good

Generally speaking, when it comes to the classics — a fine scotch, say, or a bespoke suit — we belong to the school of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” One notable exception? When Rolex updates and tinkers some of their most popular timepieces. In that case, it isn’t so much an admission of something being broken as it is a deliverance of something even more exceptional.

Take the newest rendition of the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller. Long the watch of choice for travellers, adventurers, and men on the move, it’s designed to deliver all the information a jetsetter might need: dual time zones presented via centre hands and a rotating off-centre disc on the dial, an annual calendar that only requires one date adjustment a year, and a month display using 12 apertures around the circumference of the dial. None of that has been changed.

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Instead, for the first time ever, the Sky-Dweller will be introduced in a choice of two-tone yellow Rolesor or white Rolesor versions that combine 904L steel and 18ct yellow or white gold. The dials, too, have been updated to feature rectangular index hour markers and longer hands, and a handy Chromalight display offers long-lasting luminescence for all you spelunkers who like to stay on schedule. And, finally, there’s one more change Rolex made to the Sky-Dweller that’ll put a smile on watch collectors’ faces: a more accessible price. The new Rolesor models start at $19,550 CAD.

See what we mean? As far as Rolex is concerned, change is always a good thing.