The two Oyster Perpetual models best represent the classic and timeless spirit of OP.
Last year, Rolex introduced a new 41 mm size in its Oyster Perpetual series. The new 41 mm diameter called Oyster Perpetual 41 (reference number 124300) replaced the previous 39 mm model. The 2020 OP 41 has seven different dials to choose from, and the so-called “Stella” color dial has recently gained fame among collectors. Nevertheless, not everyone is willing to wear a bright yellow or red dial every day. Fortunately, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 series also includes these charming “bright black” and silver styles with golden decorations. This straightforward and unpretentious entry-level three-handed card-just after its 90th birthday-is the epitome of a durable everyday watch, especially in these classic and elegant versions.
Tough and elegant
The new Oyster Perpetual 41 is as classic as ever. Avoid being classified as an elegant sports watch or sports formal watch, no matter how you want to look at it, it is a typical Rolex. OP is one of my favorite Rolex models. Often overlooked by mistake (see box), this watch has a sturdy and practical construction and just the right elegance, making it your daily “permanent” watch.
When it was launched in 2020, the new OP 41 appeared on the host known as the “Stella-inspired” loud-color dial, first appeared in the board week-date type model in the 1970s. The black and silver models I photographed, in my opinion, are the models that can best retain the timeless and classic spirit of OP and will not be outdated overnight.
Elegant and sober
Both the “bright black” and “silver with golden decorations” models have attractive sunlight finishes, exuding delicate light reflections from the center of the dial. When viewed up close, the silky luster of the silver model is spectacular.
The physical symmetry that characterizes the OP is combined with the straight-line pointer and index. The hands and hour markers on the black dial are made of 18k white gold, while the hands and hour markers on the silver dial are made of 18k gold. They are all processed by Rolex’s proprietary Chromalight (except for the second hand), which emits blue light in the dark. Taking the golden theme further, you can see the small golden squares above the silver version of the time scale, which adds a touch of elegance. One of the most obvious updates to this new series is the integration of double-bar time markers at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock, designed to fill the space provided by this time-only dial.
The height of the 41mm case is 12mm, and the slightly curved profile of the Oyster Perpetual series fits the wrist perfectly. Some watch enthusiasts pointed out that this enlarged diameter is somewhat exaggerated for time-only models, and therefore prefer the old 39 mm diameter. The watch certainly gains what it has lost in terms of elegance here, and the size makes the watch even more eye-catching. Nevertheless, the redesigned case shape is pleasing, and if you want extra refinement, the 36mm option will definitely bring that.
The Osytersteel (basically 904L stainless steel) used for the case shows a brushed and polished finish. For example, the flat slanted bezel and the sides of the case are brightly polished, while the three-chain Oyster bracelet is brushed. The water resistance is 100 meters, and the crown and case back are tightened.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 joins the watch series equipped with the latest generation of the 3230 movement, including the 2020 36mm OP model and Submariner No Date. With its outstanding astronomical observatory certificate (COSC certification and internal certification behind the case), the 3230 movement provides an accuracy of -2/+2 seconds per day, which is twice that of the official astronomical observatory. The movement is equipped with a Chronergy escapement and a large-capacity barrel, providing a powerful 70-hour power reserve, anti-magnetic (blue Parachrom hairspring) and shock absorption (Paraflex) features, and adopts a new and faster self-winding ball Winding module on the bearing.
Technical specifications-Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41
Case: 41 mm diameter x approximately 12 mm height-Oystersteel, brushed and polished-One-piece middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown-Sapphire crystal-100 meters water resistance
Dial: Sunlight silver or bright black (color lacquer dial is also available)-18k gold or white gold hour markers and hour markers, processed by blue Chromalight
Movement: Homemade 3230 movement-top chronometer (COSC + Rolex case certification)-automatic two-way winding-31 jewels-28,800 times / hour-paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring-with variable inertia balance wheel, Adjusted by four gold Microstella nuts-Paraflex shock absorber-Chronergy escapement-Paramagnetic pallet fork and escape wheel-70 hours power reserve–2 /+2 seconds/day precision-hours, minutes, seconds
Bracelet: Oystersteel bracelet flat three-piece link-folding Oyster clasp with EasyLink 5mm comfortable extension link
Reference: 124300-0001 silver dial
124300-0002 bright black dial