BaselWorld 2011: New Rolex Turn-o-Graph or Air King?

We are pretty certain that we are seeing a new Rolex Explorer II at Basel 2011. We do not expect it to be the only completely new model released this year. Rolex, has in the past, released more than one new model in a year, and releasing just the Explorer II in 2011, would be anticlimactic. So, what else do we expect to see in 2011. 

Okay, first a disclaimer. We are a small operation (as small as you can get) and we have no inside information. We base our predictions on common “business” sense. The Explorer II upgrade is not just a good business move to revive interest (both in the current and the new) in one of Rolex less popular designs, but it helps streamline the production process by giving it the same case, dial and clasp as other newly updated Rolex models. We felt that upgrading this watch made sense two years ago. That tells you how not very accurate out predictions are.

Following the same logic, we predict that we will either see a new 41mm Datejust Turn-o-Graph or a 39mm Air King. The Rolex Datejust Turn-o-Graph is a little bit too sporty in its design for the 36mm case. At the same time, with a 36mm case it is not an attractive option for many of those looking for a sports watch. A 41mm Datejust Turn-o-Graph will revive interest in this model. Rolex is already producing 41mm Day-Dates and Datejusts, so coming out with a 41mm Datejust Turn-o-Graph is not a difficult thing. 

Our, alternative prediction is that Rolex will come out with a new 39mm Air King or a plain no-date Rolex Oyster Perpetual. Why? Well they are already producing cases for the 39mm Rolex Explorer. A new Air King or Oyster Perpetual will be as simple as placing a new dial and hands on the watch and give a more classic and dressy alternative to those who find the 36mm Datejust too small and the 41mm Datejust II, too big. 

What about a 39mm Datejust? No we do not think so. That would be just too perfect, and we never get exactly what we want.      

About Rolex. Rolex SA is a Swiss manufacturer of wristwatches and accessories founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis. Rolex is the largest single luxury watch brand by far, producing over 2000 watches per day. Rolex is the best known and most sought after watch brand in the world.