Rolex’s Influence on Modern Watch Design: The Impact of the Oyster Perpetual
Rolex has long been a name synonymous with innovation in watchmaking, credited with the creation of landmark timepieces such as the dive watch, GMT watch, and the very first automatic and water-resistant watches. Despite boasting iconic models like the Submariner, Daytona, and GMT-Master that are frequently imitated, Rolex tends to remain steadfast in its design philosophy, opting to focus on timeless elegance rather than chasing fleeting horological trends.
The Groundbreaking Oyster Perpetual Collection
In 2020, Rolex made a noteworthy departure from its traditional approach with the launch of the Oyster Perpetual collection. This innovative line introduced a bold array of dial colors all at once, marking a significant shift in the watch industry. Prior to this, brands would typically unveil new colors individually over several years. Rolex’s strategy of releasing multiple vibrant hues—including coral red, green, turquoise, pink, and yellow—simultaneously was a game-changer that most observers underestimated at the time.
Inspiration from the Past
Watch enthusiasts quickly acknowledged the Oyster Perpetual’s vibrant colors as a nod to the Stella dial Day-Date watches of the late 1970s and 1980s, which were renowned for their vivid shades and luxurious appeal. However, the Oyster Perpetual stood out for its inherent simplicity and broader accessibility, making it appealing to a wider audience.
The Ripple Effect in the Watch Industry
The introduction of the multi-colored Oyster Perpetual collection has had a profound impact, inspiring numerous brands to adopt similar design philosophies. At the recent Geneva Watch Days 2025, Zenith showcased a collaboration with Swiss furniture brand USM that featured a series of bold, block-colored dials on classic stainless steel sports watches, reflecting Rolex’s influence.
Additionally, earlier this year, Oris launched its Big Crown Pointer Date with a design reminiscent of the Oyster Perpetual’s colorful palette. In 2023, Omega unveiled a collection of Seamaster Aqua Terra watches that echoed the vibrant color scheme of Rolex’s original offerings. Mid-range brands, including Breitling and TAG Heuer, have also followed suit by creating multi-colored stainless steel watches, cementing the Oyster Perpetual’s lasting impact on contemporary watch design.
Conclusion
Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual collection has undoubtedly reshaped the landscape of watchmaking, demonstrating the brand’s ability to blend tradition with innovation. By introducing a full spectrum of colors in one launch, Rolex has not only captured the attention of watch aficionados but also inspired a wave of creativity in the industry. As more brands embrace this colorful approach, the influence of the Oyster Perpetual will likely continue to resonate for years to come.
