I had already had a certain hype for the By Stef "1" then I had missed it with other projects and especially another Grand Fond in my collection. (A Spirit whose review I have already posted on Dialicious). I must admit for the anecdote that it was the second ZRC and always a more demanding expectation on a dial that I considered too wise. When the By Stef 2 project started I again came close to correction with another compulsive purchase 😊… and finally… Knowing Stéphane Clouzeau for a few years, I contacted him recently just after the opening night and I benefited from a cancellation. 24h delivery (Pithiviers is not very far from Paris where I live)
From there, ZRC, for me - diver (or ex future diver) is also a story of passions, stories, strict specifications: passing through prestigious ambassadors: the Jacques Cousteau, divers / mine clearers of the Mediterranean ... A story that started 120 years ago and then a more hollow period like many brands and the resurrection. Of the 2000s which is not ephemeral seen from the window and this thanks to a committed CEO whose name is linked to the brand.

I invite you if it is not already done to watch the Podcast of Georges Brunet (CEO of ZRC): For those who have not already listened to it and who would be interested in a Podcast that I found captivating on ZRC.

https://smartlink.ausha.co/des-montres-et-vous/83-georges-brunet-ceo-de-zrc-raconte-en-exclu-le-retour-de-la-grands-fonds

The characteristics of the beauty after these lucubrations:
- the latest Sellita SW300 developed quite precise -5/+5 and 56h of autonomy, it's correct - a minimum now!
- a magnificent blue dial with the look of Deepsea and underlined and raised indexes
- no complications (between us I find that quite superfluous for a diver)
- classic ceramic bezel
- patents that are the pride of the brand like the "rinsing" and evacuation system of salt crystals: ECS… etc.
- an improvement IMHO of the fluidity of the movement / winding thanks to this new movement surely…
A generous package for this By Stef! Soft and comfortable FKM bracelet, a numbered bronze plate (?), tools for changing the bracelet, the “special force” box 😅

A colorful favorite!

This watch is for me a paradox in the collection: I am generally attracted to watches of a limited size (Maximum 40mm excluding crown), I am not at all a "Paneristi" at the base, I am more oriented Vintage (it is from 2021) ... and yet! I became attached to this watch for its "sandwich" dial, the DNA of the brand, for its 8-day manual movement (count no less than 100 turns of the crown to wind it: true!). Basically I could only appreciate this "cushion" case. Its size? Very comfortable for my 17cm wrist: the secret for this, the absence of lugs that would lengthen already large dimensions (45mm excluding crown). Let's talk about the crown: in the shape of a very well finished diamond. And finally it was the opportunity that made me take the plunge for this watch purchased from a friend. If I had to change something, I admit that I would appreciate a less imposing buckle, which is to say nitpicking! I find it very precise and very comfortable to wear with a slightly vintage look in fine and very beautiful blued needles.

Radiomir for me the only one!

As far back as I can remember, I have always had a weakness for classy watches, with a "diver" style and although I myself am a diver in my spare time, far from me the idea that it replaces a good dive computer but the submariner or derivatives are must-haves from the brand with the crown IMHO. After that I am not a fan of the bubble with the date and for all that I animate the date on a watch. Then my criteria: a taste for old but although a 5513 or a 1680 attract me, the budget of the versions and years that interest me distances me from it and then I had this opportunity not so long ago... a full set SD 16600 from 2004 as we like to specify, with the chance to have a new and perfectly original insert (Olivine could not have said it better 😅) and on the watch another insert also original but having lived and with a patina worthy of a vintage from the 70s-80s!. This one leaves my "wish list" and enters my collection which to the great displeasure of those around me is expanding in a continuous flow!

Robust, efficient and endearing

I bought this watch almost 2 years ago when it came out, having "fallen in love" with the model, its dial, its colors. 2 years later, the crush is still there. What can I say technically? 40 mm, El Primero / High Beat - ref. 3600 giving it 60 hours of autonomy, more recently completed by its sister 3620 equipping my Defy Skyline. A very contained chronograph both in terms of the diameter excluding the crown and its thickness, exceptional finishes, a sumptuous dial with 3 counters, tricompax required, in blue and gray tones that make it bright and lively. I am not used to using the chronograph regularly and yet it is quite a poem with its lightning speed like the small off-center second of my Defy. Its bracelet made by Gay Frère as at Rolex is very comfortable with a high degree of finish. Maybe a criticism on this one: its shiny polished appearance in the center would tend to attract visible scratches, however it is not a watch intended for maneuvering or work activities so a little attention spares me these problems today. The purists of the brand with the crown tend to criticize this model because of its undisguised resemblances to a Daytona with a very moderate final virulence. Zenith is indeed very legitimate having equipped the Dayto for a time with its Primero and then no one has the exclusivity of the tricompax :). In short, I love this watch whose balance I find perfect!

A “little” marvel!

A pleasure today to share with you a recent acquisition after a long search to find the rare bird. I had spotted this beauty in the exceptional collection of a friend... 12 years ago (in 2011). A regular on certain forums, this friend regularly posted this little marvel. I had done some research without ever finding it or "too late" or in a lamentable state. It was finally in Germany that I found one morning in December 2023 this magnificently balanced 1970 chronograph from a small brand: Oebra whose history I am not familiar with, which at the time was one of the houses surfing the wave of manual tricompaxes. A touch of Chrono Heuer, by Enicar Sherpa, with an exceptional movement that equipped some Daytona (Paul Neuman)...

An ideal size for my wrist and large for the time: 40 mm in diameter excluding the crown with a beautiful dial opening, a case in antique with scratches from wearing, a Panda dial with a patina that time has improved, the smoothness of the movement, its pushers. "All original" as some like to specify: no traffic on the watch, the hands, the case, the movement, the dial.... No wild polishing to give the impression of coming out of the factory and lose its charm and its history! As I like
A bracelet that I had in stock 20/18 for another occasion but which seems to have been designed for her: custom-made from Camille Fournet in Shark with a light black grain lined with waterproof navy calfskin, red thread coordinated with the chrono hand.
The incredible condition of this "young granny" from 1970 which displays a precision of +4/-2s per day on the chronocomparator.

A small brand, a big movement, a great find

For a long time I hesitated to take the plunge, I already have chronos, more readable ...
But I came across this model with a magnificent patina "as I like them" of 41mm without crown, not too thick, tritium, original plexi not scratched, case in remarkable condition, paper box ... a 7750 very well known and "easy" to have serviced. I have a Breitling leather strap of correct quality but not very glamorous, a rubber not necessarily period but of Breitling origin and quality. And above all I equipped it with a strap custom-made by ABP in Aligator with very precise specifications.
This watch has a history beyond the history of this "aviator" model because it belonged to a pilot of the Canadian Air Force. A precision to which I am sensitive having the pleasure of wearing a watch that I like and which had a hectic life!

A face! And a story!

Exact reference for those in the know: ZRC 1904 1964 Spirit GF41218. I find this "new" version of the Spirit more accomplished, recovering the logo with its inverted triangle, gaining a needle with a red finish at the tip, a particularly reflective ceramic bezel. I did not make the (deliberate) choice of steel on the bracelet although the versions dedicated to the 40-41mm models are from my point of view qualitative than the recent steel bracelets dedicated to the so-called "38" models (actually 39mm in diameter). This one is given for 41.5 but my caliper remains on 40.7 approximately... a matter of mm more or less... No matter, heavy case with its anti-magnetic back comfort on the wrist. This model exists with and without date. Aesthetically, the window being quite small and not overlooked by a bubble on the Sapphire, it is discreet. Spirit obliges, these colors are subtly patinated just like the falsely white indexes, the lume is always effective after exposure. Like all ZRCs with the crown at 6 o'clock I find the winding tedious with always the fear of slightly twisting the stem. So you have to be a little careful. Nothing bad. Delivered for my part with a "2-part Nato" with scratches, I preferred a Kundu leather coming from a craftsman that collectors like me appreciate (Xamlam to pay tribute to him) which reinforces this vintage, dated side. Naturally to be avoided for diving. I find this model a real success, meeting precise specifications, a dial ultimately more lively than its elder, materials reflecting light, a real presence on the wrist (a little heavy even on steel). My only regret, a movement with 38-40 hours of reserve which is not in-house (at least it is reliable and easy to repair in case). We would like (I would like) a movement with a more substantial autonomy (60-72 hours for example). This watch remains very endearing, with a history and a large community that give it an extra soul!

Second edition of the Spirit - a success!

A revival of the Defy model with its 41 case borrowing from the Genta design, powered by a Primero Ref 3620 - a non-chrono version of the 3600 that equips the Chronomaster Sport. 60 hours of autonomy and a small lightning second (1/10). A magnificent textured dial - Blue for my version - with multiple stars. Very precise watch, high beat (36k) obliges, transparent back with a movement decorated with a very worked balance wheel with the Zenith star. An ingenious enlink for quick attachment of the excellent Gay Frere steel. This bracelet is a marvel in itself with finishes that have nothing to envy to the excellent bracelet of the Royal Oak from AP. Here too we are entitled to a perfect integration with remarkable work on the chamfers and the extension of the case which is also very worked on the angles, the chamfers, the brushed texture or even microblasted (in appearance). The rubber bracelet with folding clasp is also very comfortable. Certainly FKM or equivalent. Small note on the adjustment of the bracelet: tedious to adjust with screws and counterscrews and especially no micro adjustment to the buckle. Any regrets? No, any flaws? Minor but slightly thick for a watch that wants to be a little sporty, a little "dress" too.... We would like a 39-40 version instead of 41 and slightly less thick: for that a renewal of the manual HW would be an alternative. Capricious to take a photo to pay tribute to it :-)!

Elegant, bright and “lightning”

Clarification on the reference: GMT automatic SBGM245. There are watches that catalog photos do not always pay homage to or do not really attract more than that. This GMT is one of them. If I had missed a video or a fitting at the Paris Vendôme boutique, I would have missed it and yet.... So there are a number of GS that attract me, some that have become unobtainable or unaffordable such as the Peacock with its green hammered dial, itself a GMT. And then I came across this one - a little more modest (everything is relative of course) - I think it was a Youtube video from a fanboy in Singapore that most invited me to go and try it. For the description, I appreciate its proximity to the Rolex Explorer 2 and especially its differences with a thinner bezel although its 40mm case excluding the crown is close, this gives it a larger dial opening. What strikes me in general with GS and this one is not usual are the finishes. So from afar, it looks "not bad" but up close the magic (IMHO) works! I will not talk about the magnificent chamfers present on the cases and the handles (that some big brands would be wise to always apply IMHO ...), a finesse in the details passing by the indexes, a slightly sunrayed dark blue dial, a subtly two-tone inner flange to distinguish the hours of day vs. those of night. I come back to the case because the play of textures (brushed, polished, micronillé ..) are magnificent, also present on the bracelet also manufactured by GS. A real GMT moreover with adjustment and safe return back. The softness of the crown is also a detail both when winding the watch and when setting the hours / dates / minutes. A defect? probably the high weight due to materials or GS is not economical, a fixed bezel (is it a defect?...) .... In short, controlled dimensions, a pleasure watch. The Japanese no longer have much to envy/learn from their Swiss colleagues!

The photos don't do him justice.

<p dir="ltr">The <strong>Rolex</strong> brand was created in <strong>1905</strong> in London by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis. It is today based in Geneva, Switzerland, and is recognized worldwide as one of the leading manufacturers of luxury watches. Rolex, <strong>often called the &ldquo;Crown brand&rdquo;</strong>, is synonymous with prestige, innovation and unparalleled reliability in the watchmaking world.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">History of the Rolex brand</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The year 1926 marked an important turning point for the brand with the launch of the first waterproof watch, the Rolex Oyster. The robustness and reliability of this watch were spectacularly demonstrated in 1927 when Mercedes Gleitze, a British swimmer, crossed the English Channel with a Rolex Oyster on her wrist.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In 1945, <strong>Rolex launched the Datejust</strong>, the first automatic watch to indicate the date in a window on the dial. In 1953, Rolex introduced the Submariner watch, capable of withstanding depths of 100 meters. The same year, the brand presented the Explorer watch in homage to the first successful ascent of Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, equipped with Rolex watches.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Since its beginnings, Rolex is behind more than 400 patents, attesting to a perpetual search for improvement to guarantee its models unrivaled reliability. This DNA has allowed the brand to launch models that have marked watchmaking history and often become true myths such as the Rolex Daytona or the Rolex GMT-Master.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Since its creation and in particular with <strong>exceptional 50s in terms of innovations</strong>, Rolex has continued to launch new models and in particular:</p>
<p dir="ltr">1926 - Rolex Oyster<br>1953 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/explorer"> Rolex Explorer<br></a>1953 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/submariner"> Rolex Submariner<br></a>1955 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/gmt-master"> Rolex GMT-Master<br></a>1956 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/milgauss"> Rolex Milgauss<br></a>1956 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/day-date"> Rolex Day-Date<br></a>1963 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/daytona"> Rolex Daytona<br></a>1967 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/sea-dweller"> Rolex Sea Dweller<br></a>1971 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/explorer_ii"> Rolex Explorer II<br></a>1983 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/gmt-master_ii"> Rolex GMT-Master II<br></a>1992 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/yacht-master_40"> Rolex Yacht-Master<br></a>2007 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/yacht-master_ii"> Rolex Yacht-Master II<br></a>2012 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/sky-dweller"> Rolex Sky-Dweller<br></a>2022 -<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/deepsea_challenge"> Rolex Deepsea Challenge<br></a>2023 - Rolex Perpetual 1908</p>
<p dir="ltr">Today, Rolex is known for its commitment to perfection, producing approximately one million watches each year, <strong>all certified &ldquo;Certified Chronometer&rdquo;</strong> the Rolex certification at -2/+2 seconds per day. Rolex is also a major player in the field of philanthropy, supporting numerous programs in the fields of education, environment, arts and sports.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">What are the iconic models of the Rolex brand?&nbsp;</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Rolex offers a variety of models, each with its own distinctive features. The main and most sought-after models are:</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/submariner">Rolex Submariner</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The <strong>Rolex Submariner is a professional diver's watch</strong> featuring a 41mm Oystersteel case, water resistance up to 30 ATM, Oyster bracelet with Rolex Glidelock extension system, automatic movement caliber 3230 , a black dial with luminous indexes, and a unidirectional rotating bezel with black Cerachrom disc. The Rolex Submariner often mistakenly called<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/submariner"> Rolex Submariner No Date</a> is a watch that does not have a date unlike the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/submariner_date"> Rolex Submariner Date</a> which features the famous cyclops.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/datejust_36">Rolex Datejust</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The <strong>Rolex Datejust is an elegant and versatile watch</strong> with a 36mm Oystersteel and yellow gold case, water resistance up to 10 ATM meters, Jubilee bracelet, caliber 3235 automatic movement, champagne dial with diamond indexes, and a date complication with the famous Cyclops magnifying glass.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/day-date_36">Rolex Day-Date</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex Day-Date, also <strong>nicknamed "President"</strong> due to its association with many heads of state and influential figures, is another iconic watch from the Rolex brand. It is famous for displaying both the date and the day of the week in full, in addition to the time. The day of the week is usually indicated in full, adding a distinctive touch to its dial.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Traditionally, the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/day-date_36"> Day-Date</a> is offered in an 18-carat gold case, whether in yellow gold, white gold, rose gold or platinum. This characteristic gives it a luxurious and prestigious look. The Day-Date bracelet called President is an iconic bracelet specially designed for this model, composed of three large and robust semi-circular links. The Rolex Day-Date is equipped with an in-house automatic movement, manufactured by Rolex. These movements are certified Superlative Chronometer for their exceptional precision of -2/+2 seconds per day.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex Day-Date is available with a wide range of dials, including classic dials with stick indexes, Roman numeral dials, as well as more contemporary dials with engraved designs.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/daytona">Rolex Daytona</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex Daytona is a chronograph watch designed for automobile racing. It features a 40mm Oystersteel case, water resistance up to 10 ATM meters, an Oyster bracelet, an automatic caliber 4130 movement, a white dial with black subdials, and a bezel with tachymeter scale.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/gmt-master_ii">Rolex GMT-Master II</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex GMT-Master II is a watch <strong>designed for intercontinental travelers</strong>, with a 40 mm Oystersteel case, water resistance up to 10 ATM meters, an Oyster bracelet, an automatic movement caliber 3285, a black dial with luminous indexes, and a bidirectional bezel with two-tone blue and black Cerachrom disc, allowing to display two time zones simultaneously.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/yacht-master_40">Rolex Yacht-Master</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex Yacht-Master is a <strong>luxury watch for sailing enthusiasts</strong>. It features a 40 mm Everose gold case, water resistance up to 10 ATM meters, an Oysterflex bracelet with Rolex Glidelock folding clasp, an automatic caliber 3235 movement, a chocolate dial with luminous indexes, and a bidirectional rotating bezel with brown ceramic Cerachrom disc.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/sky-dweller">Rolex Sky-Dweller</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex Sky-Dweller is a watch <strong>designed for world travelers</strong>, with a 42mm Oystersteel and white gold case, water resistance up to 10 ATM meters, Oyster bracelet, caliber 9001 automatic movement, blue dial with luminous indexes, and date, month and second time zone complications.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/sky-dweller">Sky-Dweller</a> with its annual calendar is to date the most complicated watch ever offered by the brand.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Rolex Oyster Perpetual</h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is the <strong>epitome of the classic Rolex watch</strong>, with a 28-41mm Oystersteel case, water resistance up to 10 ATM meters, Oyster bracelet, caliber 3230 automatic movement, and an electric blue dial with luminous indexes. The Oyster Perpetual or OP is undoubtedly the little sister of the Rolex Datejust with a more discreet identity and a diversity of dials which have evolved over time into multiple colors and tones. The Oyster Perpetual collection models, not escaping the exceptionally strong demand for Rolex watches, are difficult to find, particularly for the most sought-after colors such as &ldquo;Tiffany&rdquo; blue.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/cellini_dual_time">Rolex Cellini</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex Cellini is distinguished by its 39 mm 18-carat Everose gold case, its water resistance up to 50 meters, its brown alligator leather strap with 18-carat gold buckle, its automatic mechanical movement caliber 3132 , its white lacquered dial with applied indexes and dauphine hands.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The collection <strong>Cellini is Rolex's line of dress watches</strong>, dedicated to the art of fine watchmaking. It has evolved over time, moving from rectangular or asymmetrical watches to a more classic collection including the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/cellini_moonphase"> Rolex Cellini Moonphase</a>. All models in the Cellini collection pay homage to traditional watchmaking craftsmanship while bringing the technical perfection and contemporary aesthetics of Rolex. The Cellini is ideal for formal occasions and for those who appreciate timeless elegance and refined simplicity.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Despite a great diversity of models since its beginnings in the 1960s, the Cellini collection has struggled to find its place alongside the iconic Rolex models, and was discontinued in March 2023 to be <strong>replaced by the Rolex 1908</strong>.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/sea-dweller">Rolex Sea-Dweller</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The <strong>Rolex Sea-Dweller is a professional diving watch</strong>, with a 43 mm Oystersteel case, water resistance up to 4,000 feet, an Oyster bracelet with Rolex Glidelock and Fliplock extension system, an automatic movement caliber 3235, a black dial with luminous indexes, and a unidirectional rotating bezel with black Cerachrom disc.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Since its launch in 1967, the Sea-Dweller or "SD" incorporates a helium valve very useful for professional saturation divers who sometimes have to spend several days in a decompression airlock. The helium molecules being so small - they have made their way inside the casing - must exit through this valve instead of decompressing inside the casing and thus damaging it by making it lose its watertightness. .</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/deepsea">Rolex Deepsea</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">Finally, the <strong>Rolex Deepsea is the ultimate diver's watch</strong>, with a 44mm Oystersteel case, impressive water resistance up to 12,800 feet, an Oyster bracelet with Rolex Glidelock and Fliplock extension system, an automatic caliber 3235 movement, a D-blue dial gradient from blue to black, and a unidirectional rotating bezel with black Cerachrom disc.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex Deepsea is inseparable from director James Cameron known worldwide for numerous films including &ldquo;Titanic&rdquo;. Out of passion for the abyss and to prepare the film &ldquo;Abyss&rdquo;, he co-financed with Rolex an expedition to the Mariana Trench (the deepest place in the earth's crust at -10,908 meters). The prototype<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/deepsea_challenge/126067"> Rolex Deepsea Challenge</a> having been attached to the submarine used by Cameron. Rolex will use the patents tested during this expedition to launch the Rolex Deepsea.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/perpetual-1908">Rolex Perpetual 1908</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex Perpetual 1908 is <strong>an elegant and contemporary watch</strong>, part of the Rolex Perpetual collection. Here are its main characteristics. The watch sports a slim 18-carat (750/000) yellow or white gold case, measuring 39mm in diameter, with graceful lines and a subtly fluted bezel. The dial is available in intense white or intense black, featuring Arabic numerals 3, 9 and 12 as well as faceted indexes.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Perpetual 1908 is equipped with caliber 7140, an automatic movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. It incorporates technological innovations such as the Chronergy escapement and the Syloxi silicon hairspring for high precision and shock resistance. Like all Rolex models, the 1908 benefits from the Rolex <strong>&ldquo;Certified Chronometer&rdquo;</strong> certification which guarantees performance in terms of precision of -2/2 seconds per day.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Rolex Perpetual 1908 combines tradition and modernity in a timeless design, embodying the brand's watchmaking excellence and celebrating its aesthetic heritage.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">How much does a Rolex watch cost?&nbsp;</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Prices for <strong>new Rolex watches change every year, but most Rolex models cost between $ 6,000 and $ 40,000.</strong> A<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/oyster_perpetual"> Rolex Oyster Perpetual</a> costs around $ 5,000, while a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/rolex/day-date_40">Rolex Day-Date 40</a> in yellow gold costs almost $ 40,000. Rolex also offers models made from precious materials and set with diamonds at much higher prices.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Rolex: The brand of all superlatives!</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Rolex is more than a watch brand, it is an institution in the world of watchmaking. Renowned for the exceptional quality and reliability of its watches, the brand has carved out a unique place for itself in the world of luxury. Rolex is a preferred choice for those looking for a watch that combines traditional craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology and timeless design. To own a Rolex is to own a piece of watchmaking history, a symbol of success and distinction.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To find out more about the brand and its models, I invite you to consult the official Rolex website. Finally, remember that each Rolex is often considered a work of art, an investment that is passed down from generation to generation. Unsurprisingly, Rolex is part of the <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_swiss_watch_brands">Ranking of the most popular Swiss watch brands</a> and the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_luxury_watch_brands"> Ranking of the best luxury watch brands</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To choose the Rolex model that best suits you, <strong>Dialicious owners&rsquo; reviews</strong> are a valuable resource for evaluating different models through real customer experience. Other customers might prefer it<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/tudor"> Tudor</a>, but that's another story...&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">(Updated November 2024)</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

The most legendary diving watch of all terrestrial production. For me, efficiency without superfluity, non-ostentatious luxury, extreme specifications in a contained case, 40mm and 14.5mm thick. No cyclops, a sober date window and a flawless 120-click bezel. The quintessence of the professional sports watch at Rolex. Here a 16600, 3rd generation, full horns, equipped with the star 3135 movement giving it formidable precision. Taking the best from the 1665 from 1971 and the 16660, it blows a little breeze from the Compagnie Maritime d’Expertise!

Legendary diver

For several years I have regretted having sold my Sub 14060 but I found it a little strange to buy the same reference for a higher price. I then became interested in the Sea-Dweller, with an aesthetic close to the Sub but with even more impressive performances, while remaining on the same format. I finally found the 16600 that I was looking for, in a condition close to new (although this one is almost 20 years old). I find that it combines robustness and elegance to perfection.

The body-built submariner but in a contained format

I have owned this Rolex Sea Dweller for 14 years, a historic model at Rolex. It is a pleasure to look at the time even when it is not necessary. It is robust, unique and it is still as precise as it has been since the day I bought it. I have only had it serviced once in 15 years, which is in my opinion more than enough for this 911 of the watch world!

Rolex Sea Dweller

14 years ago, I bought this Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600, thinking I was making a good choice. And after all these years, I am still convinced that it was. There is something special about this watch, it has also become unique with a leather strap that is the polar opposite of the original strap! But maybe it is simply the bond I have developed with it over time. 

Robust and discreet, in my eyes at least, I particularly appreciate its 40 mm case, which gives it a perfect balance. But in my opinion, what really sets it apart is the absence of a cyclops on the date. Some would say that it is a drawback, but personally, I find that it reinforces its charm. As for its weight (144 g), slightly higher than that of a Submariner, I feel it as a sign of solidity, but I can understand that others perceive it differently. 

Performance-wise, it has rarely disappointed me. With its caliber 3035 or 3135 - suddenly I have a doubt - it remains remarkably precise, even after all these years, but maybe I am not picky enough to notice small variations. I have only had one service in 14 years, which seems more than enough, but who knows, maybe I should be more vigilant?

What I also like is the natural wear it has developed over time. Its tritium indexes have acquired a subtle patina, and the aluminum bezel shows some signs of use. Does this add to its character or is it simply a sign that it is aging? The Oyster bracelet has undoubtedly had its day, but I continue to maintain the magic of this watch with a top-notch custom-made crocodile leather strap - or alligator perhaps - from ABP Concept in Paris - besides, I should have chosen the hand-sewn one which has more charm. In a “blue-jean” color with white stitching, it transforms my SD by making it unique and more discreet… it gives it an extra soul!

I could say that this watch is the best watchmaking decision I have ever made, but maybe that’s just my attachment talking. All I know is that it has followed me for all these years, and that it continues to move me day after day.

Is it exceptional, or have I simply learned to love it? In any case, it is unique…

My Sea-Dweller is unique

This is a rarer piece than its sister Sub 16610 whose cyclops is no longer present here, on the other hand a Helium valve makes its appearance on the edge opposite the winder, the SD or Sea-Dweller tolerates saturation dives with its 1220m (against 300 for the SUB), a deep black dial, its black aluminum bezel as on all 5-digit Rolexes, its contained size at 40mm, a greater thickness than its sister (case back and sapphire) can depending on the shape of the wrist lead to divergent opinions as to the comfort of wearing, for my part I am a fan! an oyster bracelet with stamped metal buckle, comfortable readability (even if less accomplished than the recent maxi-dial versions), this is a piece that can be worn in all situations.

This is a 16600 from 1995 in its N.O.S 'juice', a sober and efficient piece, a tool that has become a collector's item, all the characteristics of the Rolex family of divers with the 3135 in its box, a date without cyclops, a small size more on the 39 than the 40mm, about ten grams more than a Sub date (count 144g), a pleasure on the wrist, tritium indexes that have acquired a patina over time, pierced horns, an aluminum bezel, what charm!...

Hypnotic

<p>Cr&eacute;&eacute;e en 2017 par le designer Nicolas Ducoudert, <strong>Beaubleu apporte une dimension nouvelle &agrave; l&rsquo;horlogerie</strong> en cr&eacute;ant des montres &agrave; la fois esth&eacute;tiques, &eacute;tonnantes et profond&eacute;ment symboliques. Les aiguilles rondes, signature de la Maison, sont le reflet d&rsquo;une singularit&eacute; et d&rsquo;une simplicit&eacute; sophistiqu&eacute;e. Chaque mod&egrave;le arbore un design d&eacute;licieusement contemporain, o&ugrave; chaque d&eacute;tail, chaque surface, interagissent avec la lumi&egrave;re.</p>
<p>Cassant les codes de l'horlogerie traditionnelle en apportant une vision nouvelle du temps, les montres Beaubleu sortent des sentiers battus en arborant des aiguilles rondes et &eacute;vid&eacute;es, inspir&eacute;es des travaux de Galil&eacute;e dans sa compr&eacute;hension du syst&egrave;me solaire. Ces aiguilles affichent de mani&egrave;re po&eacute;tique les heures, qui ne pointent pas un index ni une graduation, mais qui indiquent une position, un instant depuis le centre du cadran.</p>
<h2>Quels sont les principaux mod&egrave;les de la marque Beaubleu ?</h2>
<p>Beaubleu vient d&rsquo;annoncer le 5 juin 2024, le lancement d&rsquo;une nouvelle collection en s&eacute;rie limit&eacute;e nomm&eacute;e <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/beaubleu/seconde_francaise">Beaubleu Seconde Fran&ccedil;aise</a>. Une belle innovation esth&eacute;tique et po&eacute;tique comme en a le secret la marque., avec une aiguille volante des secondes et un calibre fran&ccedil;ais de France &Eacute;bauches. <strong>La Beaubleu Seconde Fran&ccedil;aise fait partie des nomin&eacute;s au Grand Prix d''Horlogerie de Gen&egrave;ve 2024</strong>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>La collection <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/beaubleu/ecce">Beaubleu Ecce</a> reste la collection permanente de la marque lanc&eacute;e en octobre 2023. Malgr&eacute; sa jeune histoire, Beaubleu a d&eacute;j&agrave; commercialis&eacute; 3 collections en s&eacute;ries limit&eacute;es :</p>
<p><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/beaubleu/b01">Beaubleu B01</a><br><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/beaubleu/union">Beaubleu Union</a><br><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/beaubleu/vitruve_date">Beaubleu Vitruve Date</a> et <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/beaubleu/vitruve_gmt">Beaubleu Vitruve GMT</a></p>
<h2>Quel est le prix d'une montre Beaubleu ?</h2>
<p>Le prix des montres Beaubleu &eacute;voluent et diff&egrave;rent selon les mod&egrave;les. La plupart co&ucirc;tent <strong>entre 800 &euro; et 1,600 &euro;</strong> selon les r&eacute;f&eacute;rences. A titre d'exemple, une <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/beaubleu/ecce/vesperal">Beaubleu Ecce Vesperal</a> est propos&eacute;e &agrave; 890 &euro; sur le bracelet cuir et la nouvelle collection <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/beaubleu/seconde_francaise">Beaubleu Seconde Fran&ccedil;aise</a> est vendue &agrave; partir de 1,490 &euro; sur bracelet cuir &eacute;galement. <a href="bit.ly/4abJPrn" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tous les prix Beaubleu sur le site de la marque</a>.</p>
<p>La marque Beaubleu est ind&eacute;pendante et vend plusieurs milliers de montres par an, tous mod&egrave;les confondus. Pour choisir le mod&egrave;le Beaubleu qui vous correspond le mieux, les <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/beaubleu/seconde_francaise/20.24_gris_perle/review/66607be37f15bc103d620fe3">avis clients Dialicious sur Beaubleu</a> sont une pr&eacute;cieuse ressource pour &eacute;valuer les diff&eacute;rents mod&egrave;les &agrave; travers l'exp&eacute;rience r&eacute;elle des clients de la marque.</p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Consultez le<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/top/les_meilleures_marques_de_montres_francaises"><span class="s2"> Classement des meilleures marques de montres fran&ccedil;aises</span></a> dont Beaubleu fait partie.</span></p>
<p>(Mise &agrave; jour Novembre 2024)</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Created in 2017 by designer Nicolas Ducoudert, Beaubleu brings a new dimension to watchmaking by creating watches that are aesthetic, astonishing and deeply symbolic. The round hands, signature of the House, reflect singularity and sophisticated simplicity. Each model features a deliciously contemporary design, where every detail, every surface, interacts with light.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Breaking the codes of traditional watchmaking by providing a new vision of time, Beaubleu watches go off the beaten track by featuring round, hollowed-out hands, inspired by the work of Galileo in his understanding of the solar system. These hands poetically display the hours, which do not point to an index or a graduation, but which indicate a position, an instant from the center of the dial.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">What are the main models of the Beaubleu brand?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Beaubleu has just announced on June 5, 2024, the launch of a new limited series collection called<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/beaubleu/seconde_francaise"> Beaubleu Seconde Francaise</a>. A beautiful aesthetic and poetic innovation as the brand has the secret, with a flying seconds hand and a French caliber from France &Eacute;bauches. The Beaubleu Seconde Fran&ccedil;aise is one of the nominees for the 2024 GPHG (Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Gen&egrave;ve).&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The collection<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/beaubleu/ecce"> Beaubleu Ecce</a> remains the permanent collection of the brand launched in October 2023. Despite its young history, Beaubleu has already marketed 3 collections in limited series:</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/beaubleu/b01">Beaubleu B01<br></a><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/beaubleu/union">Beaubleu Union<br></a><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/beaubleu/vitruve_date">Beaubleu Vitruvius Date</a> And<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/beaubleu/vitruve_gmt"> Beaubleu Vitruve GMT</a></p>
<h2 dir="ltr">How much does a Beaubleu watch cost?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The prices of Beaubleu watches change and differ depending on the model. <strong>Most cost between &euro; 800 and &euro; 1,600 according to the references</strong>. As an example, a<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/beaubleu/ecce/vesperal"> Beaubleu Ecce Vesperal</a> is offered at &euro; 890 on the leather strap and the new collection<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/beaubleu/seconde_francaise"> Beaubleu Seconde Francaise</a> is sold from &euro; 1,490 on a leather strap as well. All Beaubleu prices on the brand's website.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Beaubleu brand is independent and sells several thousand watches per year, all models combined. To choose the Beaubleu model that best suits you, <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/beaubleu/seconde_francaise/20.24_gris_perle/review/66607be37f15bc103d620fe3">Dialicious owners' reviews on Beaubleu</a> are a valuable resource for evaluating the different models through the real experience of the brand's customers.</p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Check out the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_french_watch_brands"><span class="s2"> Ranking of the best French watch brands</span></a>, including Beaubleu.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">(Updated November 2024)</p>

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