It’s incredibly easy to overlook the Rolex Oyster Perpetual as a Rolex that does less. And sure, it’s not as flashy as the Day Date and doesn’t have the same intrinsic functionality as the Daytona or Submariner models.
But does that really make it a lesser model?
We think not – and here’s why.
The Oyster Perpetual is a classic Rolex. First conceived in 1926, it brought to life one of Rolex’s core goals, which was to create a wristwatch that was waterproof and dustproof. However, the Oyster Perpetual, as it is known today, was not released until five years later, when Rolex had conquered the perpetual ‘self-winding’ motion of the wristwatch mechanism. This mechanism, combined with the iconic Oyster case, became the hallmark of the Oyster Perpetual, which is still renowned in the luxury watch market today.
Key Features of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual
In order to identify and highlight the key features of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, you first need to know a little more about the Rolex Oyster case and the revolution that this brought to the market.
The oyster case is what makes every Rolex model that uses it entirely dustproof and waterproof. It combines a twinlock and triplock winding crown with a solid middle case and a durable selection of seals that prevent the watch face from being permeated by dust or water. Only skilled and reputable Rolex craftsmen have the tool required to open the watch face and expose the mechanics, such is the quality and strength of the fastening.
The Oyster case also boasts, in many cases, the cyclops lens, which sits neatly over the date box on any model, showcasing the date as well as the time – and the luminescent material affixed to the watch hands and hour markers ensures that the wearer can tell the time through day and night – above ground and even underwater.
So, that’s the oyster of the Oyster Perpetual – the gold standard that was added to all Rolex watches from 1926 onwards. But what about the perpetual part?
Well, this refers to the watch motion and the ability to tell the time. The perpetual, also known as the self-winding mechanism, enables the wearer to read the time clearly and accurately. It works by rotating the oscillating weight as the wearer moves their wrist, storing the energy and using it to balance the precision of the watch movement.
What Sets the Oyster Perpetual Apart from Other Rolex Watches?
As you can tell from the aforementioned features, the Oyster Perpetual watch is, by definition, an innovative and highly technical timepiece. Even though it simply tells the time, it does so by using the very latest in horological innovation and by combining the best of what Rolex engineers and designs.
And that’s not all.
Did you know, as well as the classic Oyster Perpetual models, many of the professional watches and more technological models boast the Oyster Perpetual name as a result of their underlying design and mechanics?
For example, the Yacht Master has an Oyster Perpetual version, known simply as the Oyster Perpetual Yacht Master watch. There is also an Oyster Perpetual Submariner on the market, and of course a range of both classic and limited-edition timepieces, as curated by Rolex for special occasions and uses.
Beyond that, the Oyster Perpetual is particularly notable in the diversity across its wider collection. Buyers can browse and choose between models with different bezels and colour palettes, different thicknesses, and even different fits. Sleek designs, chunky accessories, and the inclusion of a fluted bezel all add to the charm and unique finish of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, which has something for everyone.
Tips for Investing in an Authentic Rolex
The number-one clue when it comes to investing is in the very title of this section – “authentic”.
Rolex is, unfortunately, a brand that has become so coveted and so valuable on the market that it is increasingly subject to counterfeiting and the production of fake products.
As such, ensuring that the watch you are investing in is a genuine Rolex is the most important thing to do as a buyer – familiarising yourself with the trademark authentication checks and asking for all the right certification prior to purchase.
Typically, the best place to buy an authentic Rolex is through the second-hand market, at auction, or through a reputable reseller. These can be found all over the world and offer the advantage of being able to browse and buy from a selection of models and collections – whatever they have in stock at that time. The secondary market around Rolex changes every day, though you can rest assured that any authentic and high-quality model or timepiece will hold if not appreciate in value over time.
Beyond that, our number-one tip is to bridge your desire for an investment piece with those models that really excite you. Not every Rolex is built for every wearer – that’s why each collection boasts its own unique selling points and features. The Oyster Perpetual is a rare Rolex in that it combines design brilliance with incredible simplicity.
This is not a watch that is flashy or over the top – rather, it is incredibly simple, with innovative mechanics that highlight its core function as the main selling point.
That’s not to say that you can’t invest in a professional model that uses the Oyster Perpetual design as its base. However, the core design and build of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual is, by its very definition, classic, classy, and timeless.
Where to Find an Oyster Perpetual
If you’re looking to invest in your own Rolex Oyster Perpetual, or you have an authentic model that you want to sell as part of your investment journey, then make sure to get in touch with a reliable boutique company that offers valuation services as well as inhouse expertise and advice for buyers and sellers.
Based in London and Dubai, Love Luxury are experts in the luxury market and have the products and the knowledge to help you find your perfect match.
