ROLESOR, AN ASSOCIATION OF GOLD AND STEEL
Rolesor is the meeting of two metals on a Rolex watch: the juxtaposition of gold and steel with their contrasting colours and radiance, in subtly balanced harmony. This combination has been used since the 1920s.
The name Rolesor was registered by Rolex in 1933 and has become one of the distinctive elements marking the brand’s watches, a true signature. The concept is simple: the bezel, the winding crown and the centre bracelet links are made of yellow or Everose gold, whereas the middle case and the outer links of the bracelet are made of Oystersteel. white Rolesor models, the bezel alone is in white gold.
Rolesor contributed largely to the legendary status of the Datejust. This classic and distinctive wristwatch was offered in a Rolesor version in 1948, just three years after its launch. Since that time, many other Professional and Classic watches in the Oyster Perpetual collection have appeared in Rolesor versions.
ROLESIUM, A PLATINUM AND STEEL ALLIANCE
Rolesium follows the same principle as Rolesor, pairing a precious metal with Oystersteel to create the watch case and bracelet. In this case, platinum is partnered with the steel. On watches in a Rolesium version, this bright, noble metal, particularly rare and precious, features uniquely on the bezel, while the rest of the watch is crafted from Oystersteel.
Rolex released its first Rolesium watches in 1999 – Yacht-Master references of varying sizes whose dial, too, was made from platinum. Today, only the Yacht-Master 37 and Yacht-Master 40 models are available in a Rolesium version, featuring a slate dial inscribed with the name ‘Yacht-Master’ in turquoise and a seconds hand in the same colour.
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