When it comes to luxurious gold watches, few brands do it better than Rolex. Many of us can recall memories of older relatives donning a gleaming yellow-gold Rolex, a watch that signified both success and tradition. For me, it was my grandfather’s cousin, who wore his gold Day-Date so loosely that it seemed to enter a room before he did. The watch’s presence was undeniable, often catching the light in a way that commanded attention. As a child, I used to imagine this shiny timepiece being dropped into our family fondue pot, humorously fishing it out with a cheese-dripping trident and jokingly claiming it with the French equivalent of “finders keepers.” Even then, I knew there was something special about these watches.
Despite the current trend of Rolex’s high-profile steel sports models, the brand’s gold dress pieces continue to hold a significant place in its lineup. Among these, the Rolex Sky-Dweller stands as one of the most impressive examples of opulence and modern craftsmanship. Introduced for the first time with an 18K yellow gold Jubilee bracelet at Watches & Wonders 2024, the pairing of the Sky-Dweller with this signature bracelet feels long overdue. It’s hard to imagine a better match.
We had the opportunity to go hands-on with the Rolex Sky-Dweller 336938, featuring the iconic Jubilee bracelet and a crisp white dial, to see how this bold timepiece holds up against the brand’s other prestigious yellow gold models.
Design and Comfort: A Classic Rolex with a Modern Twist
At first glance, the Rolex Sky-Dweller delivers everything one expects from the brand. The round Oyster case, the signature fluted bezel, and the instantly recognizable Cyclops lens are all present. The five-link Jubilee bracelet adds to the sense of luxury. While it shares design cues with models like the Datejust and Day-Date, the Sky-Dweller stands apart with its contemporary appeal and technical sophistication.
This gold case measures 42mm in diameter—larger than the Day-Date 40 and Datejust 41—making it a significant presence on the wrist. Other key dimensions include a lug-to-lug length of 50.5mm and a thickness of 14mm, ensuring that the watch occupies a substantial space on the wrist. For those with smaller wrists, the watch may feel a bit heavy and thick. However, the comfort of the Jubilee bracelet makes it a more wearable piece, especially for those with larger wrists, where it truly shines.
The Gold Jubilee Bracelet: Luxury in Every Link
Like many modern Rolex bracelets, the gold Jubilee features ceramic inserts, enhancing flexibility and minimizing stretching over time. The combination of polished and brushed links contributes to its luxurious feel, while the folding Oysterclasp adds an extra layer of durability. The bracelet is also equipped with Rolex’s Easylink comfort extension, which allows for easy adjustments of around 5mm for a more personalized fit.
The Jubilee bracelet has long been a staple in Rolex’s design ethos, and its pairing with the Sky-Dweller elevates the watch’s aesthetic. The iconic combination of the fluted bezel and five-link bracelet has proven successful with the Datejust, and now it brings an added sense of sophistication to the Sky-Dweller collection. While the sportier Oyster and Oysterflex bracelets remain available, the Jubilee is the clear choice for those seeking a dressier look.
Dial and Movement: A Masterclass in Functionality
Rolex offers the Sky-Dweller ref. 336938 in a range of dial colors, including Intense Black, Champagne, and Intense White—the latter being the version we had the chance to explore. The white dial beautifully contrasts with the warmth of the 18K yellow gold, providing excellent readability and a clean, elegant aesthetic. Among the three dial options, the Intense White stands out as both the most visually appealing and easiest to read.
The complexity of the Sky-Dweller is one of its defining features. Powered by the Caliber 9002 movement, this watch offers both GMT and annual calendar functionality. The central hand displays the local hour, while an off-centered 24-hour disk shows the second time zone. A set of rectangular apertures next to the hour markers reveals the month, and the iconic magnified date window at 3 o’clock completes the package. The Sky-Dweller’s annual calendar automatically adjusts until March 1st each year, making it one of Rolex’s most complicated movements.
Underneath the solid gold caseback lies the Caliber 9002 movement, which debuted in 2003 with the Sky-Dweller family. The key improvement over the previous Caliber 9001 is the addition of Rolex’s patented Chronergy escapement, enhancing both energy efficiency and reliability. The movement boasts a 72-hour power reserve and beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour, maintaining Rolex’s reputation for precision and durability.
Price and Final Thoughts: For the Gold Rolex Enthusiast
It’s hard to deny that gold Rolex watches elicit strong opinions. Whether one loves them, dislikes them, or is indifferent, they remain a symbol of success and refinement. For those who appreciate the gold Rolex aesthetic, the Sky-Dweller ref. 336938 is an excellent choice, offering a perfect blend of style and functionality. However, its size and weight may make it better suited for those with larger wrists.
The price of the Rolex Sky-Dweller ref. 336938 with the Jubilee bracelet and white dial is set at $50,000 USD. This places it around $10,000 above the price of the yellow gold Day-Date 40 with a similar dial. For those considering this investment, it’s important to note that the Sky-Dweller’s complexity, functionality, and aesthetic appeal are what justify the premium.
Ultimately, the Rolex Sky-Dweller 336938 is not just another gold watch—it’s a statement piece, combining technical prowess with timeless luxury. If you’re in the market for a watch that offers both elegance and performance, this is a piece worth considering.
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