Baselworld 2012: Rolex Introduces the Rainbow Daytona Ref. 116598 RBOW

And other gem-set timepieces.

The flagship launch for Rolex at Baselworld 2012 is the Daytona Cosmograph “Rainbow” (ref. 116598 RBOW). That’s because bezel is set with baguette-cut sapphires forming a rainbow pattern.

Interestingly the chronograph sub-dials are made with a proprietary Rolex 18k gold alloy called Gold Crystals which resembles meteorite. This is also available in white gold, for a more discreet look. The retail price is US$89,100 and availability is limited due to the difficulty of matching the coloured gemstones..

And then there’s the Day Date 36 mm in Everose with chocolate dial, diamonds and rubies for indices (ref. 118235).

The 41 mm Day Date II is available with baguette set diamond bezel, along with diamonds and ruby markers (ref. 218398).

Ladies can get something similar with the Lady Datejust in 31 mm (ref. 178288) or 26 mm (ref. 179178) cases in yellow gold.

Lastly the 36 mm Datejust is available in Everose with Zebra dial in diamonds and black lacquer (ref. 116285).

Chopard presents first skeleton LUC automatic – the striking Skeletec

Chopard LUC Skeletec in rose gold

Chopard has unveiled the first skeleton watch from the L.U.C. range at Baselworld 2012, the LUC XP Skeletec. XP stands for “extra plat”, or extra thin; the 39.5 mm case is a mere 7.13 mm thick.

The LUC cal. 96.17-S has been skeletonised in a contemporary fashion with geometric shapes, rather than the traditional Baroque, engraved openworking.

Horizontal Geneva stripes work well with the circular motif of the skeleton base plate; the open bridges on the back are grained and black coated with striking effect.

And the L. U. Chopard logo is printed on the sapphire crystal, leaving it floating above the skeleton base plate.

I respect and admire Chopard’s movements in the LUC range, but have always found their designs lacklustre. The LUC Skeletec is the best looking LUC of late, but it’s a shame it doesn’t have the Geneva Seal or Quality Fleurier stamp; that would take the finishing to a whole new level.