Rolex dropped a bomb at Watches and Wonders. The Land-Dweller is real, and it’s more significant than anyone predicted.
What Is It? #
The Land-Dweller is Rolex’s first entirely new collection since the Sky-Dweller launched in 2012. That’s 13 years between genuinely new product lines. When Rolex creates something new, they mean it.
It sits between the Datejust and Day-Date in the lineup. Think of it as a luxury sports watch with an integrated bracelet - Rolex finally entering territory that AP and Patek have occupied for decades.
The Design #
Two sizes: 36mm and 40mm. The case design channels the angular aesthetics of the discontinued Oysterquartz from the 1970s and 80s. Brushed surfaces, geometric lines, a fluted bezel with 60 flutes (different from the 72 on a Day-Date).
The bracelet is a completely redesigned flat-link Jubilee that flows directly from the case. It’s not compatible with standard Jubilee bracelets - this is purpose-built.
Available in Rolesor (steel/white gold), Everose gold, and platinum. The platinum comes with the signature ice blue dial. Rolesor and Everose feature white dials with a subtle honeycomb texture.
Case thickness is 9.6mm. Notably thin for a Rolex automatic with this level of finishing.
The Real Story: Caliber 7135 #
Here’s why this matters. The movement inside is brand new, built around something called the Dynapulse escapement.
This is Rolex’s version of a natural escapement - the first major escapement development from the brand since the Chronergy system in 2015. The caliber 7135 runs at 5Hz (36,000 vph), making it Rolex’s first high-beat movement in a production watch.
What does that mean practically? Better accuracy under movement, theoretically. The specification remains -2/+2 seconds per day (Superlative Chronometer standard), but at 5Hz the watch should maintain that accuracy more consistently during active wear.
Power reserve is 66 hours despite the higher frequency. That’s impressive engineering.
And yes - there’s an exhibition caseback. First time on a Rolex steel watch. You can actually see the movement.
The Prices #
- Rolesor (steel/white gold): €16,500
- Everose gold: €37,000
- Platinum: €62,000
These are retail prices. Expect grey market premiums initially, though how long they last depends on production volume.
My Take #
This is the most significant Rolex release in years. Not because of the design - that’s subjective. But because of the movement technology.
Rolex just signaled where they’re taking mechanical watchmaking. The Dynapulse escapement will likely spread to other collections over time. This is R&D investment meant to last decades.
The integrated bracelet design will be divisive. Some people will hate the Oysterquartz references. Others will love it. That’s fine. Rolex has never tried to please everyone.
If you can get one at retail, it’s probably worth the money. The innovation alone justifies the price.
More coverage coming as I learn more details.