The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 Luxury Watch is the focus of this review by WatchBox Reviews. Featuring a blue sunburst Explorer dial with tri-Arabic numerals, this watch is powered by a Rolex in-house caliber 3130 automatic movement. It is a COSC certified Swiss chronometer with a hacking seconds feature, overcoil hairspring, and a 48-hour power reserve. The Rolex Oyster case and Twinlock crown ensure a water resistance of up to 100 meters. This watch pays homage to the original Rolex “Bubbleback” of the 1930s and is tied to the legacy of the Rolex “Explorer” 3-6-9 dial and its association with Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial 116000 is encased in stainless steel, has a blue dial, and is paired with a steel Oyster bracelet. It measures 36mm in diameter, 11.7mm in thickness, and 44.1mm from lug-to-lug.
In reviewing this timepiece, the focus is on its connection to Rolex’s rich heritage and the combination of the Oyster water-resistant case with the Perpetual automatic winding system. The watch’s design incorporates a slim, cushion-shaped Rolex Oyster case with a domed bezel for a graceful and elegant appearance. The bracelet is finished in satin, with removable links for sizing and a secure internal clasp system. This Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial 116000 is a timeless piece that showcases traditional elegance and is perfect for those seeking a minimalist yet sophisticated watch.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 Luxury Watch Review
Overview of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 Luxury Watch
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 is a luxurious timepiece that combines elegance, functionality, and durability. This watch is a true representation of Rolex’s commitment to excellence and precision. With its iconic Explorer dial and exceptional craftsmanship, this watch has garnered a reputation as one of Rolex’s most esteemed models. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the history, design, features, and performance of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000.
The History and Legacy of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual has a rich and storied past that dates back to the early 20th century. Rolex introduced the Oyster case in 1926, which revolutionized the watchmaking industry by creating the world’s first waterproof watch. This breakthrough innovation paved the way for the development of the Oyster Perpetual, which combined the waterproof Oyster case with Rolex’s self-winding perpetual movement.
One pivotal moment in the history of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual was the introduction of the Rolex Bubbleback in the 1930s. The Bubbleback, named for its protruding case back, featured an automatic winding mechanism and a larger, more efficient rotor. This advancement propelled the Oyster Perpetual into the forefront of watchmaking technology, solidifying Rolex’s reputation for innovation and reliability.
Over the years, Rolex continued to refine and enhance the Oyster Perpetual, introducing various models and iterations that catered to different tastes and preferences. Today, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual remains an iconic timepiece that embodies the brand’s commitment to precision, elegance, and durability.
Design and Features of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 features a stunning blue sunburst Explorer-style Tri-Arabic dial, which sets it apart from other models in the Oyster Perpetual lineup. The blue dial exudes a sense of sophistication and is complemented by luminous hour markers and hands, ensuring optimal legibility in any lighting condition.
This watch is powered by the Rolex in-house Caliber 3130 automatic movement, which is renowned for its precision and reliability. The movement is COSC certified and boasts a Swiss chronometer designation, guaranteeing exceptional accuracy. With a hacking seconds function and a 48-hour power reserve, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 is a highly functional timepiece that can be relied upon in any situation.
Specifications and Functions of the Watch
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 features a 36mm stainless steel case, making it an ideal size for both men and women. The case is complemented by a matching stainless steel bracelet with a secure clasp system, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist.
The dial of the watch is adorned with the signature Rolex Explorer 3-6-9 numerals, which offer a unique and distinctive aesthetic. The hands and hour markers are filled with luminescent material, guaranteeing excellent legibility in low-light conditions. Additionally, the watch features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, further enhancing its durability and longevity.
In terms of functions, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 offers hours, minutes, and seconds, providing essential timekeeping capabilities. The watch also features a screw-down crown with the Twinlock system, ensuring water resistance up to 100 meters. This makes the watch suitable for everyday wear and exposure to water, without compromising its performance or integrity.
The Rolex Oyster Case and Twinlock Crown
The Rolex Oyster case is a cornerstone of the brand’s reputation for durability and water resistance. Introduced in 1926, the Oyster case revolutionized the watchmaking industry by providing an airtight and waterproof enclosure for the movement. This innovation allowed Rolex watches to be worn in a variety of conditions, including underwater exploration.
The Oyster case of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 is made of stainless steel, a material known for its strength and corrosion resistance. The case measures 36mm in diameter, striking a perfect balance between elegance and wearability. The case is also equipped with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, further protecting the dial from everyday wear and tear.
The Twinlock crown is an essential component of the Oyster case, contributing to its exceptional water resistance. The Twinlock system features a double waterproofness system, ensuring that the crown screws down securely and creates a watertight seal. With the Twinlock crown, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 can withstand water pressure up to 100 meters, making it suitable for a wide range of water activities.
The Significance of the Explorer 3-6-9 Dial
The Explorer 3-6-9 dial is one of the most distinctive features of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000. This dial configuration originated from the timepieces used during the Rolex-sponsored Mount Everest expeditions in the 1950s. The numbers 3, 6, and 9 are larger and filled with luminescent material, ensuring optimal legibility in low-light or extreme conditions.
The Explorer dial holds historical significance, as it was used by Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary during their successful ascent of Mount Everest in 1953. This achievement solidified Rolex’s reputation as a rugged and reliable tool watch manufacturer, and the Explorer dial became an emblem of the brand’s adventurous spirit and commitment to exploration.
The Explorer 3-6-9 dial’s association with adventure and exploration also made its way into popular culture. Notably, author Ian Fleming referenced the Rolex Explorer dial in his James Bond novels, further securing its place as an icon in both the watchmaking and literary worlds.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual in Popular Culture
Rolex watches, including the Oyster Perpetual, have become legendary timepieces that have made their mark in popular culture. One of the most notable appearances of Rolex watches is in the James Bond movies, where the brand has become synonymous with luxury, sophistication, and adventure. From Sean Connery’s Submariner in “Dr. No” to Daniel Craig’s Oyster Perpetual in “Casino Royale,” Rolex timepieces have graced the wrists of the iconic superspy.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual has also earned a reputation as a classic luxury watch, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Its timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship make it a coveted timepiece that embodies elegance and refinement. The Rolex brand itself carries cultural significance, representing success, achievement, and exceptional quality.
Construction and Materials of the Watch
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 features a stainless steel case and bracelet, ensuring both durability and aesthetic appeal. Stainless steel is known for its resistance to corrosion, making it an excellent choice for a watch that may encounter various environmental conditions. The satin and high polish finishes on the case and bracelet create a harmonious contrast, adding to the watch’s overall elegance.
The bracelet of the watch is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. It features removable links, allowing for easy adjustment to achieve the perfect fit. The secure clasp system ensures that the watch stays securely fastened during wear, providing peace of mind to the wearer.
Aesthetics and Wearability of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 strikes a balance between timeless elegance and modern appeal. The blue sunburst Explorer-style Tri-Arabic dial adds a touch of sophistication to the watch, while the luminous hour markers and hands enhance legibility. The 36mm case size ensures versatility, fitting comfortably on both larger and smaller wrists.
With its stainless steel construction and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 is designed to withstand the rigors of daily wear. Whether worn to the office or during outdoor adventures, this watch is a reliable companion that exudes understated luxury.
The Rolex In-house Caliber 3130 Movement
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 is equipped with the Rolex in-house Caliber 3130 automatic movement. This movement is renowned for its precision, durability, and reliability, showcasing Rolex’s commitment to exceptional horology.
The Caliber 3130 movement is COSC certified, indicating that it has undergone rigorous testing and met the industry’s highest standards for accuracy. The movement features a Swiss chronometer designation, further reinforcing its exceptional timekeeping capabilities.
With its hacking seconds function, the Caliber 3130 movement allows for precise time-setting. The 48-hour power reserve ensures that the watch will continue to operate smoothly even if not worn for a couple of days. Overall, the Caliber 3130 movement is a testament to Rolex’s dedication to creating reliable and high-performing movements.
Water Resistance and Durability of the Watch
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 is designed to be durable and water-resistant, suitable for everyday wear and various activities. With its Oyster case and Twinlock crown, the watch offers impressive water resistance up to 100 meters or 330 feet.
The Oyster case provides an airtight and waterproof enclosure for the movement, protecting it from water, dust, and other external elements. The stainless steel construction of the case ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, making the watch suitable for both land and water activities.
The Twinlock crown is an essential mechanism that contributes to the watch’s water resistance. With a double waterproofness system, the crown screws down securely, creating a watertight seal that protects the movement and dial from water ingress. Whether worn during swimming, snorkeling, or other water-related activities, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 is capable of withstanding the demands of an active lifestyle.
Conclusion
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 is a timepiece that embodies the essence of luxury, precision, and durability. With its exceptional design, functionality, and craftsmanship, this watch has rightfully earned its place as one of Rolex’s most coveted models.
From its historical significance to its association with adventure and exploration, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual carries a legacy that is deeply rooted in the brand’s commitment to excellence. Whether worn by a professional in the boardroom or an adventurer conquering new heights, this watch exudes elegance and sophistication while delivering unparalleled performance.
For those seeking a timepiece that combines timeless aesthetics with exceptional functionality, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 is a worthy investment. Its versatility, durability, and accuracy make it a reliable companion for any occasion. With a rich history, iconic design, and exceptional quality, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Explorer Dial Blue 116000 is a true testament to the brand’s enduring legacy and commitment to perfection.
