The Rolex Sky Dweller – One of the Most Complicated Movements Yet

Skydweller Wristwatch Reference 326939

Basel World 2012 had the Rolex community abuzz. It had been some time since Rolex had released a new model. With rumors of the release of a new watch named the “Sky Dweller,” collectors were in heavy debate over what type of watch it would be. As the most highly anticipated reveal at Basel World 2012, the watch drew large crowds. Beating many of the expectations, the new Rolex Sky Dweller dazzled with its intricate yet sporty design and highly advanced timepiece technology.

Skydweller Bezel

The Sky Dweller is visually similar to the previous Rolex Day Date. However, the Sky Dweller offered a new special technology allowing the dial to display both an annual calendar and dual time. Though the calendar feature was nothing new for Rolex, the Sky Dweller offers a special annual calendar that is based on a mechanism called SAROS. The name comes from the Greek term for the cycle of the earth, moon, and sun. Rolex's impressive precision and skill is evident in the calendar feature, which calculates when the right number of dates have passed so it properly and accurately turns to reveal the new month. The months are also represented on the dial. For example, the two o'clock mark would represent February, which is the second month.

Skydweller Reference 326939

The Sky Dweller not only offers an advanced calendar feature, but also has the ability to tell time for two different time zones. The local time is set on the main dial, as it is the most commonly read and also works in conjunction with the date feature. The second time zone is read using an off-centered rotating disc with numbers ranging from 1 to 24 above the six o'clock mark. A small red arrow hand is used to read the time in the secondary time zone.

Rolex Skydweller Bracelet

What makes all of these wonderful and useful features possible is the new caliber 9001. Rightly considered the most complex Rolex caliber yet, it offers 28,800 beats per hour with a power reserve of 72 hours. While the caliber makes the unique features work, the unique bezel set them. Rolex developed an operating control ring called Ring Command which allows the wearer to set the date, local time, and reference time all from the crown. The fluted bezel is not marked, but does rotates to three different positions. By rotating, it allows the crown to have only one setting position.

A close look at the white gold Skydweller

Available in 18k white gold with a champagne dial, 18k yellow gold with a white sating dial, and everose gold with a chocolate dial, the Sky Dweller wristwatch is also an aesthetically pleasing watch. With its many features, including an annual calendar and secondary time reading as well as its unique Ring Command bezel, the Sky Dweller is not only an advanced piece of technology, but a useful and versatile tool for everyday or dress wear.

White Gold Skydweller