Rolex 1908
I personally found that the new models Rolex introduced at this year's Watches and Wonders are not that interesting, perhaps with one exception - the new platinum 1908.
However, the light blue dial, together with the new guilloche pattern, makes the watch a little bit more sporty and less dressy, at least for me.
It seems that Rolex has been trying to get into the luxury dress watch market but so far without much success. I understand that the 1908 line does not receive too positive a reception from the market.
What do you think of the 1908? Do you think Rolex has done something wrong with the design of this watch? Or something wrong with the marketing strategy?
I love watches and have been collecting inexpensive watches for over 20 years. Most are quartz watches but a few are automatic. None cost me more than C$300. Since two years ago, I started collecting...
This & the Explorer 1 are pretty much the only Rolex I don't mind the look of, tho don't like the trendy blue myself.
I find them to be incredibly handsome, and being able to see a Rolex moment through a sapphire glass case back is so welcome! For me, the yellow gold and black dial version is close to dress watch perfection. The recently-introduced guilloche dial version is beautiful, but I agree that it pushes it a bit further from the center of dress watch territory. Marketing-wise, I do believe the range is overpriced and, along with its purpose, positions it into a very small prospective market. If I were in the market for the watch at Rolex’s RRP, I’d also be stopping in at a Breguet boutique to seriously consider a Classique 5157.
Despite my opinion that they should have based their new dress watch on the OP instead of the Explorer, I think it's a beautiful watch.
Sure, the design needs tweaking, but the base is solid. They will also be more recognisable as a Rolex.
The line between dress and sport are blurred…a sub can be worn with a suit nowadays and no one will blink an eye
I find them to be incredibly handsome, and being able to see a Rolex moment through a sapphire glass case back is so welcome! For me, the yellow gold and black dial version is close to dress watch perfection. The recently-introduced guilloche dial version is beautiful, but I agree that it pushes it a bit further from the center of dress watch territory. Marketing-wise, I do believe the range is overpriced and, along with its purpose, positions it into a very small prospective market. If I were in the market for the watch at Rolex’s RRP, I’d also be stopping in at a Breguet boutique to seriously consider a Classique 5157.
Yes, I agree. I personally find the 1908 quite good looking. But to my taste, I think there are others at about or slightly above this price range that are better.
I am also a big fan of Breguet. In addition to Classique 5157, I also like 5277. If it does not necessarily to be a round watch, then, 5410 is absolutely a beauty! JLC is another one I would consider for a dress watch. If further going up to the top tier, among the Holy Trinity, Patek Philippe's Calatrava would be my number 1 choice.
Despite the 1908 is quite elegant, it is not made by hands, although I don't know why being made by hands is better... I think its marketing positioning makes it very difficult to compete with these other choices.
The line between dress and sport are blurred…a sub can be worn with a suit nowadays and no one will blink an eye
Yes, that's true. This is just how I feel about this new version. Quite subjective. 😀
I think it’s a welcome refresher to the Cellini. Though I do enjoy the look of the Cellini moonphase more than the 1908.
Nope
I appreciate dress watches and love the 1908, and remain in the minority of one who is a fan of the Cellini. Although if I was to get a 1908 it would be hard to choose which model I like best.
The 1908 is a handsome watch but would not be my personal choice over a Patek Calatrava.
It would probably sell if they made it in stainless steel.
I like the design of 1908 but if I’m buying a gold watch in that price range, I will go for Vacheron, Breguet or Lange.
If I’m buying a super car, I’ll buy from Ferrari or McLaren, not from Mercedes.
They can ask for the price they are asking for on gold Daytona, Sub or GMT because the standard models are established as icons. 1908 doesn’t have that.
Great question. I think its a proof of what the brand is capable to when it comes to haute horology.
I do like it. And it might compete well against ,for example, Breguet Classique and maybe Calatrava.
Despite my opinion that they should have based their new dress watch on the OP instead of the Explorer, I think it's a beautiful watch.
Sure, the design needs tweaking, but the base is solid. They will also be more recognisable as a Rolex.
Now you said that, I do find the 1908 resembles the Explorer...
I appreciate dress watches and love the 1908, and remain in the minority of one who is a fan of the Cellini. Although if I was to get a 1908 it would be hard to choose which model I like best.
I think the Cellini is a better looking (or at least more traditional) dress watch than the 1908. For some reason, the Cellini has never become more popular. Not sure if Rolex will be more successful this time with the 1908.
Great question. I think its a proof of what the brand is capable to when it comes to haute horology.
I do like it. And it might compete well against ,for example, Breguet Classique and maybe Calatrava.
Time will tell. Rolex has been so famous for its sport/tool watches. But for high-end dress watches, I feel it will be an up-hill battle for Rolex. But who knows... They have been so successful in making almost everyone to believe getting a sport or everyday Rolex is a must. Perhaps they can repeat the history and push the 1908 to the same iconic level just like all the other tool watches they make. At this price level, apart from craftsmanship and technical expertise, marketing is everything... and Rolex is the expert in marketing! 😉