Dials

This is one of our many sunray-finish dials. Its colour results from a technique known as physical vapour deposition, or PVD.

In a controlled environment, metallic particles are released onto the dial in successive layers. It is the interplay between the thickness of the coating and the nature of the metal that allows light to reveal a unique hue. The combinations are endless. Therefore, so are the exclusive chromatic nuances we can create. Our process is a precise molecular recipe with a single goal: to sublimate matter and reinvent colour.

This is our floral motif. This creation, exclusive to the Datejust 31, combines long-standing watchmaking tradition with cutting-edge technology.

The brass plate of the dial base has a sunray finish, and two different laser beams are used to create matt or grained effects on the surface. The true beauty of the rich tonal variation of flowers is revealed through the colouring process, which enhances their intricate textures. This pictorial landscape is adorned with 24 diamonds of varying diameters that shimmer like morning dew and perfect the transformation of the dial.

This dial is no longer available in the current catalogue.

This is one of our lacquered dials. Its distinctive hue is achieved through advanced technological processes developed and perfected in our workshops.

Layers of gold and nickel are first deposited onto the brass plate to prevent oxidation. A robotic airbrush then applies the lacquer to attain the desired depth of colour. Carried out in a controlled-atmosphere environment, this meticulous procedure ensures a flawless, even finish and reveals inimitable shades exclusive to Rolex. Only by deepening our expertise of this technique were we able to reach this profound level of mastery.

This is one of our diamond-paved dials. Crafted using the bead setting technique, it is adorned with hundreds of diamonds, each meticulously chosen and inspected.

Tiny holes are first drilled into the gold disc to cradle the precious stones. In a precisely orchestrated sequence, stone by stone, the gem-setter places each diamond before folding a delicate sliver of metal over its edge to hold it in place. These small gold fragments are then shaped into minuscule domes, which, when polished, become radiant beads of light. This process – executed with exceptional consistency and precision – is one every Rolex artisan can replicate, time and again. From this shared mastery is born a dial of perfect harmony, whose sparkle never compromises the clarity of time.

This is our intense white dial. Its striking appearance is achieved through electroplating, a technique that has been tried and tested in many fields.

The brass base plate is immersed in a series of electrolytic baths in order to coat it with very thin metallic layers. On this dial, we use gold, nickel, and then silver. After the surface is brushed, it is submerged in a final bath to intensify the brightness of the white colour, revealed by the light. Electroplating protects, but above all, embellishes. Mastering this process also means demonstrating that it can be a unique form of art.

This is the 24-hour hand of the Explorer II, characterized by its bright orange lacquer. It is always crafted from 18 kt gold.

Its triangular tip points to the graduated bezel, allowing the wearer to distinguish between daytime and night-time hours. Instantly legible, it remains so even in the dark thanks to its luminescent material. As for the 24-hour hand of the GMT-Master II, it features its own distinctive design and can be lacquered in black, red, green, blue, or left bare to reveal its metallic sheen. Combined with a bidirectional bezel, it enables the reading of a second time zone. In both cases, whether on an expedition or on the move, the 24-hour hand is a constant thread guiding you through time.