SIMPLICITY IS THE ULTIMATE SOPHISTICATION

Rolex demonstrates the beauty of minimalist design in the Perpetual 1908 and the Oyster Perpetual Explorer 40

- KC YAP

PERPETUAL 1908

In 2023, Rolex marked the inauguration of a new collection titled Perpetual with the release of the Perpetual 1908, named after the year Hans Wilsdorf devised the name "Rolex" to sign his creations and registered the brand in Switzerland. Inspired by one of the first Rolex watches fitted with the Perpetual rotor, the 1908 is the reinterpretation of traditional watchmaking style imbued with quintessential watchmaking expertise and the aesthetic heritage of Rolex.

Featuring a 39mm case in 18ct yellow or white gold, with gracious lines and a transparent back that allows the refined aesthetics of the movement to be admired as well as the pivoting of the oscillating weight, the 1908 conveys the full strength of the watch's character in the simplicity of the display and by details that confer its unique identity. This timepiece perfectly embodies the spirit of the Perpetual collection, at whose core lies the celebration of the art of watchmaking in its noblest form.

The curve of the lugs is highlighted thanks to a gentle chamfering on their top edges. The bezel is divided - the lower part being given an elegant fluting and the upper part domed. Made of virtually scratchproof sapphire, the domed crystal and the transparent case-back benefit from an antireflective coating.

The particularly sleek dial, either intense white or intense black depending on the version, is graced with Arabic numerals 3, 9 and 12, and faceted index hour markers, and a small seconds subdial at 6 o'clock. The hour hand is distinctive for the circle just before the tip, while the minute hand is shaped like a two-edged sword.