Rolex at Baselworld 2019: New Editions of Iconic Models

Rolex Yacht-Master 42,

Image: Rolex

Every year, people can’t wait to see what Rolex will come up with for Baselworld, and they rarely disappoint. The world’s biggest watch brand always has a couple of surprises up their sleeve. In this article, we’ll be walking you through the most notable Rolex introductions from Baselworld 2019.

Rolex Yacht-Master 42

The first 2019 model we want to discuss is the Rolex Yacht-Master 42. This new member of the Yacht-Master family is bigger and has an updated design. Before now, the Yacht-Master had only been available with a 37 or 40-mm case. Rolex has made a smart move by adding a 42-mm version, as it will attract people who’ve always liked the design of the Yacht-Master but prefer a larger watch.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42
Image: Rolex

It also helps that this Yacht-Master is a stunner. The combination of a white gold case on a black Oysterflex bracelet is a feast for the eyes. At Baselworld 2015, Rolex introduced a black and rose gold version of the Yacht-Master. This latest model could be described as its understated big brother. The 2019 version pairs a 42-mm white gold case with the same notched bezel as its sister model. This bezel features a matte black Cerachrom insert with polished, raised black numerals and indices. The latest Yacht-Master is powered by the Rolex caliber 3235 and can be yours for $27,800.

Rolex GMT-Master II

Another fan-favorite to receive a facelift is the steel version of the Rolex GMT-Master II. The 2019 edition has a blue and black color scheme and a Jubilee bracelet. Last year saw Rolex introduce the GMT-Master II with the iconic blue and red bezel (also known as a “Pepsi” bezel) and a Jubilee bracelet. That reintroduction of a beloved classic was one of the most talked-about watches of Baselworld 2018, and this new version seems to be following in its footsteps.

Rolex GMT-Master II

Image: Rolex

This blue and black color combination also has its own nickname, namely “Batman.” With this release, Rolex appears to have made the deliberate choice to only make the steel GMT-Master II available with a Jubilee bracelet. It’s a certainly bold move. Whether it’s the right one? I’ll leave that for you to decide. On the bright side, it makes life easy. The only choice you have to make is whether you want to spend your $8,800 on the Batman or Pepsi edition. Shouldn’t be a problem, right?

Speaking of Pepsi, Rolex also revealed two new versions of the Pepsi GMT-Master II. Both of these white gold watches are worn on the familiar Oyster bracelet but have different dials: One comes with a remarkable meteorite dial, while the dial of the other matches the blue of the bezel insert. Regardless of what you choose, be prepared to spend over $35,000. The meteorite version requires an investment of around $37,000, while the model with the blue dial has a list price of 33,400 euros (approx. $38,000).
 

Rolex Sea-Dweller

On to another Rolex classic, the Rolex Sea-Dweller. For the first time ever, Rolex has released a two-tone Rolex Sea-Dweller in yellow gold and stainless steel. In fact, this is the first time Rolex has ever used a precious metal for any Sea-Dweller. It’s a remarkable decision, considering the Sea-Dweller is the most hardcore Rolex sports watch and characterized by functionality and technology.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller
Image: Rolex

To be fair, most people wear the Sea-Dweller as an everyday watch, so it makes sense that Rolex decided to release a yellow gold and steel edition. This watch is essentially a more exclusive version of the Rolex Sea-Dweller introduced at Baselworld 2017. It features the same Rolex caliber 3225 and has the same technical specifications. This special Sea-Dweller will sell for 14,300 euros (approx. $15,400.)

While we’ve looked at the biggest Rolex announcements from Baselworld 2019, this list is far from exhaustive. One thing’s for sure: The brand has gotten people talking again. As always, they were able to surprise us with some bold moves. It looks to be another successful year ahead for the world’s biggest watch brand.