Rolex Honors Its Heritage With ‘Perpetual 1908’, The First Of An All-New Family

Perpetual 1908, 39mm, yellow gold. Image ©Rolex/JVA Studios

Rolex is turning back the clock in a modern and refreshing way with the Perpetual 1908. This timepiece not only pays homage to the year 1908, when founder Hans Wilsdorf first conceived the brand’s name, but it also signifies a significant milestone in Rolex’s history. It’s the first fresh name to the Rolex family since 2012’s Sky-Dweller.

The Perpetual 1908, the debut piece in Rolex’s all-new Perpetual collection, is a dress watch. Its slim case, available in 18 ct yellow or white gold, is adorned with a partially domed and finely fluted bezel. This elegant exterior is further complemented by a transparent case back, offering a captivating view of the movement’s intricate details.

Perpetual 1908, 39mm, white gold. Image ©Rolex/JVA Studios

The dial, in either intense white or intense black, features Arabic numerals at three, nine, and 12, along with faceted index hour markers. A small seconds subdial at six o’clock and the words ‘Superlative Chronometer’ in an arc shape above it add to the watch's allure. The hour and minute hands, with their distinctive shapes, bring to mind a keen attention to detail.

Perpetual 1908. Image ©Rolex/Ulysse Frechelin

The 1908 boasts a 39 mm case with gracefully designed lugs and a transparent back that showcases the movement’s refined aesthetics. Virtually scratch-proof sapphire crystal, with an anti-reflective coating, covers the domed crystal and case back. This piece is waterproof up to 165 feet—not too shabby for a dressy watch.

Perpetual 1908, 39mm, yellow gold. Image ©Rolex/JVA Studios

Perpetual 1908. Image ©Rolex/Ulysse Frechelin

Powering the Perpetual 1908 is Caliber 7140, a new self-winding movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex for precision, power reserve, convenience, and reliability. It features the patented Chronergy escapement, known for its high energy efficiency and resistance to magnetic fields. The Syloxi hairspring, also patented by the watchmaker, ensures regularity in any position, while the Paraflex shock absorbers enhance shock resistance. The oscillating weight, made from 18 ct yellow gold, further adds to the movement’s efficiency.

Perpetual 1908, 39mm, yellow gold. Image ©Rolex/Ulysse Frechelin

Caliber 7140’s barrel architecture and efficient escapement provide a power reserve of approximately 66 hours, making sure the watch keeps ticking even after a weekend getaway.

Perpetual caliber 7140. Image ©Rolex/Ulysse Frechelin

Completing the Perpetual 1908 is a matte brown or matte black alligator leather strap. Individually tailored for the watch, it features a green calfskin lining and tone-on-tone stitching. The strap is equipped with a Dualclasp, a double folding clasp, available in 18 ct yellow or white gold, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.

Double folding Dualclasp. Image ©Rolex/Ulysse Frechelin

Perpetual 1908. Image ©Rolex/JVA Studios

[via New York Post, Hodinkee, Sharp Magazine, images via Rolex]