Rolex 279171 Overview
The Rolex 279171, officially known as the Rolex Datejust 41, is a sophisticated and timeless timepiece that embodies the essence of the iconic Datejust collection. Released in 2016, this model stands out with its larger 41mm case size, a contemporary update to the classic Datejust design.
The 279171 holds a significant place within the Rolex collection, representing a modern interpretation of the brand’s heritage. The Datejust has been a mainstay of Rolex’s offerings since its debut in 1945, and the 41mm size introduced in 2016 further solidified its appeal to a wider audience.
Target Audience
The Rolex 279171 is designed for individuals who appreciate the classic elegance of the Datejust collection while seeking a larger and more contemporary timepiece. The 41mm case size provides a substantial presence on the wrist, making it suitable for both men and women with larger wrists. The model’s versatility and enduring style appeal to a wide range of individuals, from professionals to collectors and those seeking a timeless investment piece.
Design and Features: Rolex 279171
The Rolex 279171, also known as the Datejust 41, is a classic timepiece that embodies the brand’s commitment to precision, durability, and elegance. This model features a distinctive design that seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with timeless appeal.
Key Design Elements
The Rolex 279171 boasts a range of design elements that contribute to its unique character.
- Case Size: The watch has a 41mm case diameter, a size that strikes a balance between sportiness and elegance, making it suitable for a variety of wrist sizes and occasions.
- Case Material: The case is crafted from Oystersteel, a proprietary stainless steel alloy developed by Rolex. This material is renowned for its strength, corrosion resistance, and durability, ensuring the watch’s longevity.
- Bezel: The 279171 features a fluted bezel, a signature element of Rolex’s Datejust collection. The intricate fluting adds a touch of sophistication and enhances the watch’s grip, making it easier to turn.
- Dial: The dial is available in a variety of colors, including black, white, blue, and silver. The dial features a distinctive date window at the 3 o’clock position, a hallmark of the Datejust model. The hands are crafted from 18-karat gold, providing a touch of luxury and contrast against the dial.
Functionality and Aesthetics
The Rolex 279171 combines functionality and aesthetics in a seamless manner. The watch is equipped with a self-winding mechanical movement, the Caliber 3235, renowned for its accuracy and reliability. The movement is visible through a sapphire crystal caseback, offering a glimpse into the intricate workings of the watch.
The watch’s cyclops lens magnifies the date window, enhancing readability. The sapphire crystal glass is scratch-resistant and provides excellent clarity. The Oyster bracelet, with its Easylink comfort extension system, ensures a secure and comfortable fit on the wrist.
Variations of the Rolex 279171
The Rolex 279171 is available in a range of variations, offering different aesthetics and features to suit individual preferences. Here’s a table showcasing some of the key variations:
| Reference Number | Material | Dial Color | Bezel Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 279171 | Oystersteel | Black | Fluted |
| 279171-0001 | Oystersteel | White | Fluted |
| 279171-0002 | Oystersteel | Blue | Fluted |
| 279171-0003 | Oystersteel | Silver | Fluted |
Movement and Performance
The Rolex 279171 houses a sophisticated in-house movement, showcasing the brand’s commitment to precision and reliability. This movement, a testament to Rolex’s horological expertise, ensures the watch operates with exceptional accuracy and longevity.
Movement Details
The Rolex 279171 is powered by the Caliber 3235, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. This movement is known for its robustness and advanced features, including a Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, a high-performance oscillator, and a self-winding module with a unidirectional winding system.
Accuracy and Reliability
The Caliber 3235 movement is certified as a Superlative Chronometer officially certified by COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres). This certification guarantees that the watch maintains a high level of accuracy, with a tolerance of -2/+2 seconds per day. The movement also boasts a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, allowing the watch to run for an extended period without needing to be wound.
Performance Characteristics
The Rolex 279171 exhibits excellent performance characteristics, including:
- Water Resistance: The watch is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), suitable for everyday wear and occasional swimming.
- Power Reserve: The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, allowing the watch to run for a significant period without needing to be wound.
- Shock Resistance: The movement is designed to withstand shocks and impacts, ensuring its durability and reliability.
Materials and Craftsmanship
The Rolex 279171, like all Rolex watches, is a testament to the brand’s commitment to using the finest materials and employing exceptional craftsmanship. Every component, from the case to the bracelet, is meticulously selected and crafted to ensure both durability and elegance.
Materials Used
The Rolex 279171 is constructed using a combination of high-quality materials, each chosen for its specific properties and contribution to the watch’s overall performance and aesthetics.
| Material Type | Specific Component | Manufacturing Process |
|---|---|---|
| 904L Stainless Steel | Case, Bezel, Crown, Pushers | Casting, Machining, Polishing |
| 18k Yellow Gold | Fluted Bezel | Casting, Machining, Polishing |
| Cerachrom Ceramic | Cerachrom Bezel Insert | Ceramic Molding, Sintering, Laser Engraving |
| Oysterflex Bracelet | Bracelet | Molding, Injection, Bonding, Polishing |
| Sapphire Crystal | Crystal | Crystal Growing, Polishing, Anti-Reflective Coating |
Craftsmanship
The meticulous craftsmanship that goes into the Rolex 279171 is evident in every detail. Rolex’s watchmakers employ traditional techniques combined with advanced technology to ensure the highest level of precision and quality.
- Case Construction: The case is crafted from solid 904L stainless steel, known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion and scratches. The case is meticulously machined and polished to achieve a smooth, lustrous finish.
- Bezel: The fluted bezel, made of 18k yellow gold, adds a touch of luxury and provides a secure grip for adjusting the time. The Cerachrom bezel insert, made of ceramic, is highly scratch-resistant and fade-proof, ensuring the markings remain clear and legible over time.
- Bracelet: The Oysterflex bracelet is a testament to Rolex’s innovative spirit. It combines the comfort and flexibility of a rubber strap with the strength and durability of a metal bracelet. The bracelet is meticulously molded, injected, and bonded to create a seamless and secure fit.
- Movement: The Rolex 279171 is powered by a self-winding mechanical movement, meticulously assembled and regulated by Rolex’s watchmakers. The movement is known for its accuracy, reliability, and longevity.
Market Value and Collectibility
The Rolex 279171, a sophisticated and elegant timepiece, holds a significant position in the luxury watch market. Its value is influenced by a combination of factors, including its condition, rarity, and the current market demand.
Current Market Value, Rolex 279171
The current market value of the Rolex 279171 can vary depending on several factors, including its condition, age, and the specific configuration (e.g., dial color, bracelet). A pre-owned Rolex 279171 in excellent condition can range in price from approximately $15,000 to $25,000. However, it’s essential to note that prices can fluctuate significantly depending on the specific seller, the market, and the watch’s overall condition.
Collectibility and Appreciation Potential
The Rolex 279171 is a highly sought-after model, making it a desirable collectible. Its classic design, robust construction, and limited production numbers contribute to its collectible status. The model’s potential for appreciation over time is influenced by factors such as its condition, rarity, and the overall demand in the luxury watch market.
Comparison with Similar Rolex Models
The Rolex 279171 shares similarities with other Rolex models, such as the Datejust and the Day-Date, but it stands out with its unique design features. Compared to other Rolex models, the 279171 typically commands a higher price due to its limited production numbers and its distinctive features. For instance, the Rolex Datejust 41 (model 126334) with a similar design and materials might be priced slightly lower than the 279171, while a Rolex Day-Date 40 (model 228235) with a more elaborate design and a day display would command a higher price.
Notable Features and Innovations
The Rolex 279171, a modern iteration of the iconic Datejust, incorporates several notable features and innovations that enhance its functionality, aesthetics, and overall value. These features contribute to the watch’s enduring appeal and solidify its place as a timeless classic.
Notable Features
The Rolex 279171 boasts a range of features that distinguish it as a sophisticated and functional timepiece. These features, carefully considered and implemented, enhance the watch’s usability, aesthetics, and overall appeal.
- Cyclops Lens: Magnifying the date display, the Cyclops lens is a signature feature of the Datejust. It enhances readability, making the date easily visible without compromising the watch’s elegant design.
- Jubilee Bracelet: The Jubilee bracelet, with its five-piece link design, is a hallmark of the Datejust. This bracelet offers both comfort and durability, adding to the watch’s overall elegance.
- Oyster Case: The Oyster case, known for its water resistance and robust construction, protects the movement from the elements. This design element contributes to the watch’s durability and reliability.
- Fluted Bezel: The fluted bezel, with its intricate pattern, adds a touch of sophistication and visual interest to the watch. It also provides a tactile experience, enhancing the wearer’s interaction with the timepiece.
- Self-winding Movement: The automatic movement, powered by the wearer’s natural movements, eliminates the need for manual winding. This feature ensures the watch is always running, providing reliable timekeeping.
Ownership and Maintenance
Owning a Rolex 279171 is a significant investment, and proper care and maintenance are crucial to preserving its value and functionality for years to come. This section will guide you through the essential aspects of owning and maintaining your Rolex 279171, ensuring its longevity and continued enjoyment.
Cleaning and Care
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your Rolex 279171 in pristine condition. To clean the watch, use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with lukewarm water. Gently wipe the case, bezel, and bracelet, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. For stubborn dirt or stains, you can use a mild soap solution, but be sure to rinse thoroughly with water afterward.
- Avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperatures, chemicals, or magnetic fields. These can damage the watch’s components and affect its performance.
- Do not use any cleaning agents on the crystal. The crystal is highly scratch-resistant, but it can be damaged by harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Store the watch in a dry, cool place. Avoid storing the watch in direct sunlight or humid environments.
Servicing and Repairs
Rolex recommends servicing your watch every 5-10 years, depending on usage and environmental factors. This involves a thorough inspection, cleaning, and lubrication of all components, ensuring optimal performance and extending the watch’s lifespan.
- Only use authorized Rolex dealers or service centers for servicing and repairs. Unauthorized technicians may lack the specialized tools and knowledge to work on a Rolex watch, potentially causing further damage. Authorized service centers have trained technicians and use genuine Rolex parts, ensuring the highest quality of repair and preserving the watch’s value.
- Keep your watch’s warranty card and service history. These documents are essential for verifying the watch’s authenticity and history, which can be valuable if you ever need to sell or insure the watch.
- Regular servicing can help prevent more serious problems. If you notice any issues with your watch, such as a loss of timekeeping accuracy, a malfunctioning chronograph, or a damaged crystal, contact an authorized Rolex dealer or service center immediately.
Potential Issues and Solutions
While the Rolex 279171 is known for its robust construction and reliability, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues that may arise.
- Water damage: Rolex watches are water-resistant, but not waterproof. It’s crucial to avoid exposing the watch to excessive water pressure or submerging it beyond its stated depth rating. If water does enter the watch, it’s essential to contact an authorized Rolex dealer or service center immediately to prevent damage to the movement.
- Crystal scratches: The sapphire crystal on the Rolex 279171 is highly scratch-resistant, but it’s not invincible. Avoid exposing the watch to abrasive surfaces or sharp objects. If the crystal does get scratched, it can be replaced by an authorized Rolex dealer or service center.
- Movement issues: Over time, the watch’s movement may require lubrication or adjustments. If you notice any issues with the watch’s timekeeping accuracy, a malfunctioning chronograph, or other movement-related problems, contact an authorized Rolex dealer or service center immediately.
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