Winter: Platinum, Blue Opal, and Lapis Lazuli
Rolex saves perhaps the most spectacular combination of materials for Winter. The case is crafted from platinum, while the dial is made from blue opal and the three chronograph subdials from deep blue lapis lazuli. For the hour markers Rolex uses 11 diamonds, eight baguette-cut and three square-cut. The bezel is set with 36 trapeze-cut sapphires arranged in a gradient running from blue to fuchsia (approximately 5.57 carats). Another 54 brilliant-cut diamonds (around 0.86 carats), complete the gem-setting on the case and crown guards. The cool sheen of platinum, blue opal dial, and lapis lazuli subdials give Winter the most cohesive color palette of the four watches.
Beneath the gemstones: Caliber 4131
The Four Seasons models are powered by the automatic Caliber 4131, which Rolex introduced with the latest generation of the Daytona in 2023. It provides a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. All four unique pieces are also certified by Rolex as Superlative Chronometers.
Federer and DiCaprio Behind the Project
The project is more than presenting four exceptionally exclusive Rolex watches. The auction was conceived as a charity initiative. Founded by Roger Federer in 2003, the Roger Federer Foundation supports children in southern Africa and Switzerland, with the goal of improving access to education and opportunities for personal development. Re:wild was founded by a group of conservation scientists together with Leonardo DiCaprio. The organization works with Indigenous Peoples, local communities, and conservation groups, among others, to protect and restore natural habitats. All proceeds will go to the two organizations.
An Auction with Collector Potential
Rolex has not announced official estimates for the four watches, making the results on September 28 all the more intriguing. There is plenty to attract serious collectors: four one-of-a-kind Rolex watches, the enduring appeal of the Daytona, rare natural-stone dials, elaborate gem-setting, and a high-profile charity component. The format adds another layer of interest. Although the Four Seasons were conceived as a complete quartet, Phillips will offer each watch as a separate lot. That raises an obvious question: Will the four Daytonas go to different collectors, or will a single bidder try to keep the set intact? Either way, the Four Seasons are likely to be among the most closely watched Rolex lots of the year.
This article was first published by WatchTime Germany.