Rolex 279173 Model Overview
The Rolex 279173 is a sophisticated and elegant timepiece that embodies the brand’s commitment to precision, durability, and timeless design. It is a highly sought-after model, renowned for its distinctive features and its status as a luxury watch.
Reference Number Significance
The reference number 279173 holds significant meaning within the Rolex product line. It denotes a specific model within the Datejust collection, characterized by its unique combination of features, materials, and design elements.
The first two digits, “27,” indicate the model’s case size, which is 41 millimeters in diameter. The next two digits, “91,” identify the specific model within the Datejust line, indicating its inclusion of a cyclops lens over the date window. The final two digits, “73,” denote the material of the watch, which is 18-karat yellow gold.
Case Size and Material
The Rolex 279173 boasts a 41-millimeter case, a size that strikes a balance between classic elegance and contemporary presence. It is crafted from 18-karat yellow gold, renowned for its durability, lustrous shine, and timeless appeal.
Bracelet
The Rolex 279173 is paired with a Jubilee bracelet, a signature design element of the Datejust collection. This five-piece link bracelet is known for its comfortable fit and elegant appearance, complementing the watch’s overall sophistication.
Comparison to Other Models
The Rolex 279173 shares similarities with other Datejust models, but its unique combination of features sets it apart. Its 41-millimeter case size is larger than the classic 36-millimeter Datejust, providing a more substantial presence on the wrist. The use of 18-karat yellow gold distinguishes it from models crafted from other precious metals, offering a luxurious and distinctive aesthetic.
Technical Specifications: Rolex 279173
The Rolex 279173, like other Rolex models, is known for its robust and reliable construction. This section delves into the technical details of the watch, including its movement, chronograph functionality, water resistance, and other relevant aspects.
Movement
The Rolex 279173 is powered by the renowned Rolex Caliber 4130, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement. This movement is renowned for its precision, accuracy, and durability.
- Caliber: 4130
- Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours
- Complications: Chronograph, date
The Caliber 4130 is a testament to Rolex’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. Its robust construction and advanced features ensure a reliable and accurate timekeeping experience.
Chronograph Functionality
The chronograph function of the 279173 allows for precise time measurement of short intervals. This feature is commonly used for timing events such as races, sporting activities, or simply measuring elapsed time.
- Start/Stop: Pressing the top push button starts and stops the chronograph.
- Reset: Pressing the bottom push button resets the chronograph to zero.
- Central Chronograph Hand: The central hand measures elapsed seconds.
- Sub-dial: The sub-dial at 12 o’clock displays elapsed minutes.
Water Resistance
The Rolex 279173 features a water resistance rating of 100 meters (330 feet). This rating indicates the watch’s ability to withstand water pressure up to this depth. However, it’s important to note that this rating does not guarantee water resistance in all situations.
It is recommended to avoid exposing the watch to extreme pressure changes or prolonged immersion in water.
Other Technical Aspects
- Case Material: 18k yellow gold
- Case Diameter: 40mm
- Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
- Bracelet: Oyster bracelet with Oysterlock safety clasp
The Rolex 279173 combines luxurious materials with advanced technology, resulting in a timepiece that is both aesthetically pleasing and technically sophisticated.
Design and Aesthetics
The Rolex 279173, a timepiece that embodies both timeless elegance and contemporary sophistication, is renowned for its meticulously crafted design and captivating aesthetic. The watch’s design seamlessly blends traditional Rolex elements with modern design cues, creating a truly exceptional timepiece that appeals to a wide range of discerning individuals.
Dial Design
The dial of the Rolex 279173 is a masterpiece of simplicity and clarity. Its clean lines and understated elegance create a timeless aesthetic that transcends fleeting trends. The dial’s color, often a classic black or white, provides a striking contrast against the polished steel or gold case, enhancing the watch’s overall visual appeal.
The dial’s markers, typically Roman numerals or applied indices, are meticulously crafted and precisely positioned. These markers, depending on the specific variation, are either luminous or non-luminous, ensuring excellent readability in various lighting conditions. The hands, often crafted from polished steel or gold, are designed for optimal legibility and enhance the watch’s overall elegance.
Aesthetic Appeal
The Rolex 279173 exudes an aura of refined elegance and sophistication. Its sleek lines, polished surfaces, and meticulously crafted details contribute to its timeless appeal. The watch’s overall aesthetic is characterized by its understated elegance, a quality that resonates with individuals who appreciate classic design and enduring value.
The 279173 is a versatile timepiece that complements a wide range of styles and occasions. Its elegant design makes it suitable for both formal and casual settings, while its durability and functionality make it an ideal everyday companion. The watch’s target audience includes individuals who value quality craftsmanship, timeless design, and the prestige associated with the Rolex brand.
Impact on Value and Desirability, Rolex 279173
The Rolex 279173’s design plays a significant role in its value and desirability. The watch’s timeless aesthetic, coupled with its exceptional craftsmanship and the prestige of the Rolex brand, contributes to its enduring appeal and high resale value.
The 279173’s design is a testament to Rolex’s commitment to creating timepieces that transcend trends and remain desirable for generations. The watch’s enduring appeal and strong resale value make it a sought-after investment piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Historical Context
The Rolex 279173, a sophisticated timepiece, is not merely a product of recent design but rather a culmination of Rolex’s rich watchmaking history. Understanding its historical context reveals the evolution of this model and its significance within the brand’s vast catalog.
Evolution Within Rolex’s History
The 279173 is a testament to Rolex’s dedication to innovation and refinement. Its roots can be traced back to the brand’s early days, where the pursuit of precision and durability laid the foundation for the iconic timepieces we know today. The model’s evolution reflects the continuous development of Rolex’s design philosophy, materials, and manufacturing processes.
Market Value and Collectability
The Rolex 279173, with its blend of classic design and modern features, holds a unique position in the watch market. Understanding its current market value and potential for appreciation is crucial for collectors and potential buyers alike.
Factors Affecting Market Value
The market value of a Rolex 279173 is influenced by several factors, including:
- Condition: Like any luxury watch, the condition of the Rolex 279173 significantly impacts its value. A watch in pristine condition, with original box and papers, commands a premium price. Conversely, a watch with visible wear and tear or missing parts will be valued lower.
- Rarity: While the 279173 is not a limited edition, certain variations or specific dial colors may be rarer than others. These rarer variations can command higher prices in the market.
- Demand: The demand for the Rolex 279173 also plays a significant role in its market value. Popular models and those with desirable features often experience higher demand, leading to increased prices.
- Market Trends: The overall luxury watch market is subject to fluctuations. Economic conditions, trends in fashion, and the availability of new models can all impact the value of a watch.
Potential for Appreciation
The Rolex 279173, being a well-respected and sought-after model, has the potential for appreciation in value over time. This appreciation is driven by several factors:
- Brand Reputation: Rolex is known for its exceptional craftsmanship, durability, and enduring appeal. This strong brand reputation contributes to the appreciation of its watches.
- Limited Production: While not a limited edition, the 279173 is produced in relatively limited quantities compared to other Rolex models. This limited production can contribute to its value over time.
- Investment Potential: Luxury watches, especially those from renowned brands like Rolex, are often considered investment assets. Their potential for appreciation makes them attractive to collectors and investors.
Factors Contributing to Collectability
The Rolex 279173 possesses several qualities that make it a desirable collectible:
- Timeless Design: The 279173 embodies the classic Rolex aesthetic, with its elegant lines and refined details. This timeless design ensures its appeal to collectors across generations.
- Exceptional Craftsmanship: Rolex is renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship. The 279173 reflects this dedication to quality, with its precise movements and durable construction.
- Historical Significance: As a model within the iconic Rolex Oyster Perpetual collection, the 279173 holds a place in the history of watchmaking.
- Versatility: The 279173’s versatile design allows it to be worn for various occasions, from formal events to casual outings. This versatility adds to its appeal for collectors.
Notable Features and Innovations
The Rolex 279173, a modern iteration of the iconic Datejust, boasts a blend of classic design and innovative features that have solidified its position as a highly sought-after timepiece. This section delves into the unique aspects that set the 279173 apart from its predecessors and contribute to its enduring appeal.
Rolex Calibre 2236 Movement
The heart of the 279173 is the Rolex Calibre 2236, a self-winding mechanical movement that represents a significant advancement in watchmaking. This movement incorporates several innovations that enhance accuracy, reliability, and longevity.
- Paramagnetic Blue Parachrom Hairspring: This revolutionary hairspring, crafted from a paramagnetic alloy, is resistant to magnetic fields and temperature variations, ensuring greater precision and stability over time.
- Optimized Oscillator: The Calibre 2236 features a redesigned oscillator that improves the movement’s efficiency and reduces energy consumption, extending the power reserve to approximately 55 hours.
- High-Performance Escapement: The movement incorporates a high-performance escapement system, enhancing the watch’s accuracy and reliability. This system optimizes the energy transfer between the mainspring and the balance wheel, resulting in smoother and more consistent timekeeping.
- Certified Chronometer: The Calibre 2236 movement has been rigorously tested and certified as a chronometer by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). This certification guarantees the movement’s accuracy to within -2/+2 seconds per day.
Oyster Perpetual Design
The 279173 embodies the classic Oyster Perpetual design, renowned for its durability and water resistance. The case, crafted from 18k Everose gold, offers exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion. The fluted bezel, a signature element of the Datejust, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.
- Oyster Case: The case is designed with a screw-down crown and a screw-down case back, ensuring water resistance up to 100 meters (330 feet). This design provides robust protection for the movement and enhances the watch’s overall longevity.
- Cyclops Lens: The 279173 features a Cyclops lens magnifying the date window at 3 o’clock, making it easier to read. This innovative feature, introduced by Rolex in the 1950s, has become a hallmark of the Datejust collection.
- Jubilee Bracelet: The watch is paired with a Jubilee bracelet, a five-piece link bracelet known for its comfort and flexibility. This bracelet, introduced in 1945 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Rolex, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall design.
Other Notable Features
- Roman Numeral Dial: The 279173 features a Roman numeral dial, adding a touch of classic elegance and sophistication to the watch’s overall design. This design element has been a staple of the Datejust collection for decades.
- Fluted Bezel: The fluted bezel, a distinctive feature of the Datejust, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the watch’s overall design. The fluted bezel, a hallmark of the Datejust, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall design.
Comparisons with Similar Models
The Rolex 279173, a sophisticated timepiece with its unique combination of features, finds its place among other noteworthy models in the Rolex product line. Understanding its similarities and differences with these models provides a clearer perspective on its position within the brand’s diverse collection.
Comparison with Similar Models
Here’s a table comparing the Rolex 279173 with other similar Rolex models, highlighting key features:
While the table provides a basic overview, a detailed analysis of each model’s pros and cons helps in understanding their individual appeal:
* Rolex 279173:
* Pros:
* The warm, elegant Everose gold case adds a touch of luxury and exclusivity.
* Its smaller size compared to some other models makes it comfortable to wear on smaller wrists.
* Cons:
* The price point is significantly higher than stainless steel models.
* The Everose gold might be less versatile for everyday wear compared to stainless steel.
* Rolex 116500LN:
* Pros:
* The stainless steel construction offers durability and a classic aesthetic.
* Its price point is more accessible compared to the 279173.
* Cons:
* It lacks the luxurious appeal of the Everose gold model.
* Rolex 126600:
* Pros:
* The updated movement offers improved accuracy and power reserve.
* The ceramic bezel is scratch-resistant and provides a clean, modern look.
* Cons:
* It lacks the historical significance of the 116500LN.
Each model caters to a specific audience based on their preferences and priorities. The Rolex 279173, with its unique combination of elegance and functionality, stands out as a luxurious and sophisticated choice for those seeking a timepiece that embodies both style and performance.
Impact and Legacy
The Rolex 279173, with its blend of classic design and modern functionality, has left a significant mark on the watch industry. It has influenced subsequent Rolex models and other brands, solidifying Rolex’s position as a leading luxury watchmaker.
Influence on Subsequent Rolex Models
The 279173’s success paved the way for Rolex to explore new design elements and materials in its future models. Its use of the Oyster Perpetual Datejust 41 case, for example, became a standard for many subsequent Rolex models. The 279173’s integration of a fluted bezel with a smooth bezel option also set a trend for greater customization and personalization within the Datejust line.
Influence on Other Watch Brands
The 279173’s impact extended beyond Rolex, influencing other watch brands in their design and material choices. Its combination of classic aesthetics with modern functionality inspired other luxury watchmakers to create similar timepieces. The 279173’s use of high-quality materials, such as 18k Everose gold and the Cyclops lens, set a new standard for luxury watches, prompting other brands to incorporate these features into their own offerings.
Contribution to Rolex’s Legacy
The 279173’s success further solidified Rolex’s reputation as a luxury watchmaker, reinforcing its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and enduring design. The model’s popularity among watch enthusiasts and collectors contributed to Rolex’s legacy of creating timeless and desirable timepieces. The 279173’s continued appreciation in value in the secondary market is a testament to its enduring appeal and its contribution to Rolex’s enduring legacy.
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