Baselworld 2015: Introducing the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Reference 114300
For the past few months, I have recurrently been asked by many die-hard Rolex fans, "Luke, what do you hope to see from Rolex at Basel this year?" My unvarying response: "A Newman Daytona re-edition, of course." Not to my surprise, Rolex did NOT release any vintage-inspired Daytonas this Baselworld. Yet, interestingly enough, Rolex introduced a 37 millimeter Yachtmaster and a series of Day-Dates fitted with insanely-cool textured dials. But I am certainly not the sort of collector who gets hyped-up over the, relatively speaking, "complicated" modern Rolexes; whereas, I'm most intrigued by the simpler Oyster Perpetuals. Let's take a closer look at the new reference 114300.
The 39 millimeter Rolex 114300 is bound to be a classic. I don't know about you, but in my mind, this Rolex's dark rhodium dial has a similar aesthetic to the prototype Singer dials notably featured on Rolex Passion Report. To most guys, the bright blue hour transfers wouldn't be such a big deal. I happen to be totally in love with this watch simply because of those hour transfers. Furthermore, a 39 millimeter case diameter is rare for such a no-frills piece. If anything, the 114300 is particularly Milgauss-like, an aspect I applaud.
A COSC-certified caliber 3132 in-house movement powers this ticking beast. The inclusion of a 48-hour power reserve is beneficial to the wearer. And in order to keep perfect time, Rolex's patented Paramagnetic Blue Parachrom hairspring regulates the frequency at which the large balance wheel rotates.
Evinced by images alone, Rolex puts remarkable effort into manufacturing their cases. Rolex's cases are literally perfect. It goes to show how every facet of watchmaking is an art, even case-making.
This model is sold on a 904L Oyster bracelet and offered only in steel.
For further information, please visit www.rolex.com.