Rolexs Cellini Replacement, the Perpetual 1908

Rolex discontinues the Cellini line and introduces a fresh new Perpetual 1908, a name which pays homage to the founding of the Rolex name by Hans Wilsdorf. The watch features a slim case with a bezel that is domed and partly fluted. This watch is launched in four variants available in 18ct white or yellow gold. The watch features an open case back, which is a first for Rolex. This year at Watches and Wonders 2023, Rolex has also placed an open case back for its special 60th Anniversary Daytona.

The sleek matt, fine satin finished dial showcases 3-9-12 markers which are made in its 18ct case material counterpart (Either yellow gold or White gold). The simplistic elegant design is a time-only watch showcasing a small second sub dial at 6, and is Rolex’s reinvention of an elegant dress watch. I find the hands especially fascinating with Breguet like hour hands, featuring a circle just before the hour hand.

The heart of the Perpetual 1908 is housed with a calibre 7140, which was released this year in 2023. This movement features a Chronoergy escapement, Syloxi hairspring, and paraflex shock absorbers. The movement bridges are finished with Rolex Côtes de Genève, A Rolex reinterpretation of a famous finishing technique in watches for decoration, and like all Rolex movements carries a Superlative Chronometer certification, which ensures a timekeeping precision of +/- 2 seconds a day.

The 1908 is fitted with an elegant alligator leather strap, available in Matt brown or matt black depending on the reference. This strap is created with a green calfskin lining and tone-on-tone stitching. It is mounted with double folding clasp, in 18 ct yellow or white gold.