This timepiece is one of the few models from the brand to have a break in its production cycle – and this is another reason it is liked and sought after by Rolex enthusiasts. The model was first introduced in April 2022 and follows the brand's overall strategy of modernizing its models. Its predecessor was “launched” in 2016, and its goal was to offer a watch that, unlike other representatives of the Oyster line, is neither distinctly sporty (like a Submariner) nor dress (like the Cellini models), but rather casual – as it allows you to wear it with both jeans and a T-shirt, as well as with a formal shirt and trousers.
Indeed, the detail on this watch (as with all modern Rolexes we have had the opportunity to examine) is impressive. Starting with the incredible dial, which combines several elements unique only to this model – the green seconds hand, the resized minute markers, the logo colored in gold and green – none of this can be found on any other Rolex model. The large Arabic numerals are similar to those on the Explorer I and, together with the hands, seem to be “suspended” in the air in a state of weightlessness. They are elegant and crafted from white gold with a Chromalight “infill,” which is standard for the brand’s modern models. The crystal is of Rolex’s highest-grade sapphire, which has allowed the overall height of the watch to be reduced compared to its predecessors.
It is interesting to focus on the design of the dial itself – not least because this is perhaps one of the rare cases where Rolex so tangibly changes the appearance of the watch compared to its predecessors. The reason for this change is rooted in a collaboration that began in 2006, which resulted in the creation of two special instruments.
These instruments are found in the Bloodhound Super Sonic Car – the fastest land vehicle, which set several land speed records, powered by a jet engine from a Eurofighter jet.
The rest is history – the collaboration was immortalized, the design of the instruments was transferred to the watch, and the name is also more than fitting, not least because when setting the record, the vehicle was piloted by a former Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot, Andy Green. So the name fits...
The differences between the current model and its predecessor are several, but all are significant. The first is, of course, the case – not only has it become thinner (11.6 mm versus 13 mm on the previous model), but it now also features crown guards. You must agree, this already has a much more “Rolex” feel. The second difference is the movement – at the heart of the model beats Caliber 3230, part of the brand's new generation of calibers, with greater resistance and a longer power reserve. The third is also visible – the changes to the dial, with the addition of a “0” to the “5” index and Chromalight on the 3, 6, and 9 indices. The fourth is the bracelet – it now incorporates the much higher-quality Oysterlock clasp with a safety catch and a raised logo.
The watch has additional anti-magnetic protection and is one of the few models where a technology similar to that of the Milgauss is used to provide it – through different materials in the production of the movement and an additional anti-magnetic capsule for its protection. Of course, separate attention must be paid to the case and bezel – an incredible combination of brushed highest-grade 904L steel with faceted polished edges and details in places. As you know, Rolex pays special attention to the steel used and has its own foundries for its production.
And of course – the bracelet, the band, the chain, or whatever you may call it. As can be expected from a Rolex, it is truly good. In this case, it is a classic Oyster bracelet with micro-adjustment, and its full size includes 5 links towards the “6 o’clock” side of the case, of which 2 are removable, and 7 links towards the “12 o’clock” side, of which 4 are removable. The clasp is an Oysterlock with an applied logo on it.
Of course, at the heart of the watch “beats” an in-house Rolex movement – in this case, this task is entrusted to the 3230. This is a new generation of one of the most successful, reliable, and best automatic movements not only of the brand but in watchmaking in general – a Superlative Chronometer with a 70-hour power reserve, Paraflex shock absorbers, and a Parachrom hairspring.
