Recommended five luxury watches in “gold”: Rolex’s precious metal masterpieces.

The Transformation and Revival of “Gold Rolex”

The term “Gold Rolex” once had a derogatory connotation, originating from the late 20th century when precious metal Rolex watches were favored by wealthy “new money” individuals, leading to labels of being old-fashioned and vulgar. However, the situation has greatly changed in recent years. Gold watches have regained popularity due to their high value retention and the market’s enthusiasm for retro trends, gradually rising in prominence. Strictly speaking, “Gold Rolex” specifically refers to Rolex watches made of 18K gold, but broadly interpreted, it also includes rose gold and white gold models. This time, the editorial team has selected five precious metal watches from Rolex’s rich product line for enthusiasts looking to acquire a “Gold Rolex.”

Rolex’s Exclusive Precious Metal Casting Process

Precious metals hold special significance for Rolex, as the brand has its own foundry dedicated to producing the 18K gold needed for watchmaking, a stark contrast to other brands. Rolex’s foundry employs cutting-edge equipment to execute a precise manufacturing process: metals are melted in furnaces at temperatures exceeding 1,150 degrees Celsius, combined with other elements to form alloys, and then crafted into 18K yellow gold, white gold, and Everose gold according to the brand’s exclusive formula. This process combines the four elements of fire, wind, water, and earth, showcasing the harmony between technology and nature. Typically, casting K gold takes about two hours; although automated, the casting master supervises the entire process to ensure that the alloy solidification rate aligns with Rolex’s stringent standards.

The Extraordinary Aura of Precious Metal Watches

The K gold material, rigorously selected by Rolex, boasts exceptional quality and dazzling luster, naturally exuding a unique aura. This is not only due to the rarity and nobility of precious metals but also reflects Rolex’s proud watchmaking craftsmanship and classic aesthetics. The following five precious metal watches demonstrate the brand’s diverse design and technical styles.

Day-Date 40 228235

When mentioning “Gold Rolex,” the Day-Date series is undoubtedly an indispensable representative. This series consistently uses precious metals to showcase luxurious grandeur. In 2024, the Day-Date introduces new elements, such as model 228235, which features a gradient dial within a 40mm case, complemented by three-dimensional Roman numeral hour markers in gold, highlighting the prestigious character of Rolex’s flagship model. The gradient dial is not a new design; it has previously been applied to the 36mm models and is now extended to 40mm, providing collectors with richer choices. This watch carries the classic significance of being the world’s first to feature full-date and day functions, further enhancing its appeal.

GMT-Master II 126718GRNR

In 2023, Rolex reintroduced the GMT-Master II in gold (model 126718GRNR), thrilling collectors. This watch features an 18K gold case and five-link bracelet, and for the first time, it includes a gray-black bi-color Cerachrom bezel, becoming the fifth ceramic colorway in the series. The black dial is paired with gold two-time-zone hands, completing a full rotation every 24 hours, combined with a rotating bezel for displaying three time zones. Among the five-link bracelet styles, this all-gold version stands out as top-tier, making it an attractive choice for seasoned collectors seeking uniqueness.

Sky-Dweller 336935

The Sky-Dweller series is based on gold and steel styles, with no pure steel versions. Following the 2023 update, the series details have improved, with the most significant change being the movement upgrade from 9001 to 9002. The new movement retains the advantages of its predecessor, featuring a new style of skeletonized automatic rotor and introducing the Chronergy escapement system, equipped with a nickel-phosphorus escapement fork and optimized escapement wheel, enhancing performance by about 15%. The model 336935 is crafted from Everose gold with a three-link bracelet, featuring a new blue-green dial, dual time zone, and calendar functions, with the Ring Command bezel allowing for easy crown setting, showcasing the ultimate convenience of complex functions.

Submariner Date 126618LB

The Submariner series is renowned for its stainless steel models, but the model 126618LB is one of the rare K gold versions in the series (the other being the gold black dial 126618LN). This watch features an 18K gold case and bracelet, paired with a blue Cerachrom ceramic bezel and sunburst blue dial, making it unique within the Submariner family. The gold material grants it the esteemed title of “King of Submariners,” while still retaining practical features like 300 meters of water resistance, an Oysterlock clasp, and a Glidelock extension system, combining luxury and functionality, suitable for both diving and everyday wear.

Yacht-Master 42 226659

The Yacht-Master series has become increasingly diverse in recent years, offering sizes of 37, 40, and 42mm. In 2019, Rolex launched its first 42mm platinum version (model 226659), featuring a matte black ceramic bezel and black dial. The larger case diameter makes the geometric hour markers more prominent, while the white luminescent coating enhances readability. Inside, it houses the 3235 movement, incorporating the Chronergy escapement system and improved mainspring, providing a power reserve of up to 70 hours. Since then, both the 40mm and 42mm models have upgraded to the 32 series movement, marking an important milestone in the series’ technological advancement.