Is Rolex’s New Colorful Oyster Perpetual a Future Classic?

Curtis Chen (Grey & Patina)

I have always loved the 36mm Stella dial day-date released long ago. This OP release was perhaps the most exciting thing Rolex released this year. Vibrant pastel colors that show Rolex’s playful side… it’s almost a bit Warholish.

MAD Paris

I like the new colors, a lot, really cool, and refreshing compared to all those similar professional models. But unfortunately, they just took an old recipe and microwaved it (i.e. Stella dials). It’s cool to dust off some old products and update them, but we see they’re still not ready to go wild ha-ha.

Paul Altieri (Bob’s Watches)

I actually do, I think it’s a terrific launch. I’m a huge fan of vintage Stella dials, and these new fancy vivid colored dials are very reminiscent of those, but these new Oyster Perpetual watches are more affordable and packed with Rolex’s latest and greatest technologies.

Michael Blakey (Producer Michael)

I am a huge fan of the Rolex brand and it was actually a stainless-steel Submariner that got me into watch collecting. I was delighted to see Rolex offering something different and more risqué. Although the dial color options are unusual for Rolex, the new additions still maintain the beautiful characteristics and distinctive look we all know and love. That said, I’m still debating with myself over the elimination of the date bubble.

Grey & Patina

“What do you say about the guy that owns a blue Ferrari… It’s not his first Ferrari.” These OP’s are going to go to the guy that wants to be seen as bucking the trend. It’s certainly not the safe choice, and that is exactly why someone that marches to their own beat wants. It’s likely the guy that doesn’t own a Panerai in his collection.

MAD Paris

Certainly a lot of people! Those who want a “fancy” watch for summer, those who can’t afford a vintage Stella, those who love Stella but want something stronger and more durable (water-resistance, shock resistance…etc). It’s for those who want a Rolex but can’t afford to spend $8-$12,000 USD for a pro model. Those who don’t have the connection to get a sub… and of course, the casual and professional pre-owned watch dealers.

Bob’s Watches

These fun new watches are going to appeal to both sexes. Fashionable men and women will both be drawn to these new colorful models. And best yet, they are very affordable! I can see these appealing most to the collectors/enthusiasts who already have several nice pieces and now want something a little different than the rest of what is in their collections.

Producer Michael

I think there are a few different types of people who would buy this watch. A person considering either starting a watch collection and wanting something a little different, someone looking to obtain a timepiece renowned for high quality which could also become an heirloom, or even for that individual looking to have a bright statement piece on their wrist. Rolex has always been recognized as a symbol of success and gives the sense of achievement and goal accomplishment. With this new addition, it allows those with more of a vibrant taste to also jump onboard.

Grey & Patina

Slow, calculated movements are what people expect of Rolex. That’s why pieces like the OP that was just released as well as pieces like the 116598 Leopard Daytona, Green Dial 116718LN GMT have a bit of a cult following. It’s the out of left field modern piece’s that slip through their tight calculated factories that I notice. My perception hasn’t changed but small discreet changes is what the brand has been known for.

MAD Paris

We are unfortunately not surprised by the release … as mentioned the colored oysters are super cool but nothing but modern and accessible Stellas. The Submariners are super nice also, but once again nothing really new. We all know all the models are being refreshed because of the new movements. GMT, Subs, Oysters, Datejusts… Explorer II should come very soon and probably all the others step by step. The Explorer is about to have 50 years, let’s see what’s going to happen, but we bet it will be like this release: perfectly executed, but already seen before.

Bob’s Watches

Total surprise. They nailed it. These new brightly colored dials certainly make sense in the context of Rolex’s history and past offerings, but I definitely did not expect that they would be something that would be released this year – and especially not on the Oyster Perpetual collection.

Producer Michael

The brand has always been a favorite of mine – that won’t change. The reveal was a bit of both – the expected and unexpected, unexpected being the bright dial options, and the expected being the timeless recognizable design which I’ve always seen as the hallmark of the brand. I was pleased to see that the design kept the same flavor, concept and style. At the same time, I was excited to see the case size increase to 41mm.

Grey & Patina

I am a vintage lover at heart, so 40mm will always be the sweet spot for me… but it’s not so much 36, 41 etc… a watch should be balanced on an individual. It should glide effortlessly in and out of a sport coat, and tuck away nicely under a shirt cuff should you want to be more discreet. I could neve wear an AP offshore, but LeBron could certainly pull it off with ease. For those with slimmer wrists, the 36mm is more than plenty of watch to rock on a daily basis. Green 36mm OP is where I would put my money. Avoid the waitlist for the sub… do you really want to be the last guy in the office to be offered one?

MAD Paris

I’d say 36mm is a bit small for my wrist. I tried the 41mm, which is great, but a bit big. Between 36mm and 41mm, I’d still go for 41mm. I would have preferred a 39mm or 40mm, especially with the fancy and flashy dial, the watch doesn’t need to be too big.

Bob’s Watches

There’s a lot of great options, but I think I’d take the 36mm version with the (Hermès-inspired) yellow dial. I love the vintage Rolex President in white gold with the yellow dial, and the 36mm model kind of reminds me of that – except without any of the worries of potentially damaging an expensive and highly collectible vintage watch.

Producer Michael

Those that are familiar with my YouTube channel know I like to wear bright colors. On many of my watch videos, people often comment on my eclectic taste in both clothing and timepieces (my Rolex Daytona Leopard for example). Since I enjoy larger watches, I would definitely choose the 41mm and as far as color, it would be bright red or yellow for sure.

This is easy, and all are 36mm. The vintage Rolex 1600 series (1600, 1601, 1603) averages $2,700 to $3,500 USD, and the vintage Rolex 1803 series (head only in gold) averages $6,500 USD.

MAD Paris

Unfortunately, this price range does not offer any interesting watches to me. For men, you won’t find anything from Rolex. You’ll have to go for a second hand like a used Explorer, Airking, or Precision.

Bob’s Watches

In this price range, there are a number of great Rolex watches if you look at previous generations, including the now-discontinued 36mm and 39mm versions of the Oyster Perpetual. With that in mind, here are just a few great options to consider: the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 ref. 116000, the Rolex Air-King ref. 114200, and the Rolex Datejust ref. 116200.

Producer Michael

There are quite a few options in this price range, especially if you’re including watches outside of Rolex. If I were to suggest some Rolex alternatives, I would recommend the following: Grand Seiko Heritage Edition 40mm, this is a beautifully crafted piece with great attention to detail and a very precise movement and conservative look; Omega De Ville Hour Vision 41mm, a very elegant watch with a fabulous tried and tested movement; and the Panerai Luminor Blu Mare 44mm, larger case, a bulletproof movement and lots of fun with the stunning bluedial.

Alright, let’s cut to what everyone is wondering. Do you think this watch will not just hold value, but appreciate?