Ultimate Rolex Sky-Dweller Buying Guide

Ever wondered which Rolex model is the most complex and technologically advanced? No, it’s not the traditional Day-Date or Datejust. The Rolex ‘Sky-Dweller’ is a trailblazer in every way. Launched in 2012, the Sky-Dweller is the most functionally advanced creation from the iconic Swiss manufacturer.

Despite being only a decade old, the Sky-Dweller has undergone a handful of refinements and updates, with many references joining and leaving the collection. If you’ve considered adding one of these ultra-luxurious travel watches to your collection, this guide is for you.

Read on as we discuss everything about the model, its different features, current models in production, and many other important purchase-related details.

About the Sky-Dweller

In 2012, Baselworld, Rolex released a very young model with no historical ties. It was a completely fresh timepiece with a list of innovations. The Rolex Sky-Dweller came with the first Saros Annual Calendar, operated with the help of a bezel called the Ring Command, and the completely new Calibre 9001.

Rolex designed this model with frequent fliers in mind, and the watch nurtured all the qualities that catered to their needs. For instance, it had a large 42mm case and an impressive dial with a legible presentation of the complex annual calendar and dual-time features.

The entire horology community got talking about its unique appeal and concept. However, unlike Rolex’s expectations, the initial response was mixed. The Sky-Dweller drew criticism for its arguably busy dial and the eye-watering price, which was quite obvious for an 18ct gold Rolex.  

While it continues to be one of the brand's top-line offerings, the Sky-Dweller has become much more approachable in recent years with the addition of Rolesor models and Oysterflex bracelet options.

Key Features Of The Sky-Dweller

In its decade-long history, the Rolex Sky-Dweller has undergone significant aesthetic evolution. However, its key features or essence remain the same.

Here’s what a typical Sky-Dweller timepiece entails:

Oyster Case

The Sky-Dweller's large 42mm Oyster case makes it appear similar to a sports watch. The Oyster case offers a guaranteed water resistance of 100 metres. When Rolex released the Sky-Dweller model in 2012, it was only available in 18ct white gold, yellow gold, or Everose gold. A few years later, Rolex added two Rolesor options to the catalogue, making it accessible to buyers. It also updated the dial with luminous baton markers for a modern outlook.  

Ring Command Bezel

Hands down, the coolest thing about the Sky-Dweller is its significant Ring Command bezel. Immensely innovative, this fluted bezel not just looks good but offers many functional benefits as well. Rotating the Ring Command bezel starts the various functions of the watch. For instance, you can set the local time, the reference time or the date and month of the annual calendar. Rolex has always been a brand associated with technological advancements, and the Sky-Dweller puts it back on the map.

Saros Annual Calendar

The Sky-Dweller's most innovative characteristic is the annual calendar mechanism, Saros. It is a key element in the model’s identity. The Saros calendar indicates the months in 12 apertures above the hour markers and the current month in red. The calendar displays the correct date all year round and requires adjustment only once, on March 1st, with February having 28/29 days. It shows the current date in the wearer’s local time zone.

24-Hour Display

The Rolex Sky-Dweller has a 24-hour display that shows the time at home and the reference time via an off-centre disc with numbers 2 to 24. The 24-hour disc, along with the red arrow below 12 o’clock denotes the reference time. Due to its bidirectional jump-hour technology, wearers can adjust the time without changing the reference time if a situation arises.

9001 Movement

Rolex equips all Sky-Dweller models with the in-house Calibre 9001. This is one of the most complex calibres ever created by the brand that guarantees simplicity of usage. The movement is fitted with a blue Parachrom hairspring for protection against magnetic fields and sudden temperature fluctuations, and the Paraflex shock absorbers provide increased shock resistance. The watches have a 72-hour power reserve.

Current Sky-Dweller Models To Buy

All the Sky-Dweller models in production today combine mechanical sophistication with a stunning display. This alchemy of simplicity and complexity makes the watches stand out in the crowd. 

Currently, seven Sky-Dweller models are in the Rolex catalogue (not counting all the different bracelet and dial variations). 

1. Sky-Dweller Ref. 336235

Presented in 18ct Everose gold, the 42mm Sky-Dweller Ref. 336235 with an Oysterflex bracelet offers a sporty alternative to metal bracelets. The watch is highly durable and comfortable to wear. The rose gold fluted bezel is a remarkable innovation which allows the date and time to be set simultaneously. 

Available in three dial options: Intense white, Chocolate and Slate.

Sky-Dweller Model	Combination	RRP
Ref. 336235	18ct Everose gold/Chocolate	£38,950
Ref. 336235	18ct Everose gold/Intense white	£38,950
Ref. 336235	18ct Everose gold/Slate	£38,950

2. Sky-Dweller Ref. 336238

Exuding a rich blend of elegance and functionality, the Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 336238 in 18ct yellow gold is a vision. Its 42mm case diameter gives it a bigger presence on the wrist, and the yellow gold is appropriate for both formal and leisure settings. The Oysterflex bracelet provides increased support.

Available in three dial options: Bright black, Intense white and Champagne.

Sky-Dweller Model	Combination	RRP
Ref. 336238	18ct Yellow Gold/Black	£37,450
Ref. 336238	18ct Yellow Gold/Intense white	£37,450
Ref. 336238	18ct Yellow Gold/Champagne	£37,450

3. Sky-Dweller Ref. 336239

Encased in an 18ct white gold case, the Sky-Dweller Ref. 336239 is perfect for anyone who appreciates a more monochromatic display. The watch's handsome black dial creates a clean and classic look for the boardroom, the beach, and everything in between.

Available in two dial options: Bright black and Intense white.

Sky-Dweller Model	Combination	RRP
Ref. 336239	18ct White Gold/Bright black	£37,450
Ref. 336239	18ct White Gold/Intense white	£37,450

4. Sky-Dweller Ref. 336933

The Sky-Dweller Ref. 336933 boasts a luxurious appeal with stainless steel and an 18ct yellow gold case. The watches feature gold fluted bezel and Oyster and Jubilee bracelet options for a dressier look. This reference is complemented by various dial colours that add to its unique personality.

Available in three dial options: Intense white, Champagne and Bright black.

Sky-Dweller Model	Combination	RRP
Ref. 336933	Steel & Yellow gold/White dial/Oyster bracelet	£17,650
Ref. 336933	Steel & Yellow gold/Champagne dial/ Oyster bracelet	£17,650
Ref. 336933	Steel & Yellow gold/Bright black dial/Oyster bracelet	£17,650
Ref. 336933	Steel & Yellow gold/Bright black dial/Jubilee bracelet	£18,200
Ref. 336933	Steel & Yellow gold/Champagne dial/Jubilee bracelet	£18,200
Ref. 336933	Steel & Yellow gold/Intense white dial/Jubilee bracelet	£18,200

5. Sky-Dweller Ref. 336934

One of the newest Sky-Dweller iterations released in 2023 is the Ref. 336934, encased in a 42mm steel and 18ct white gold case. This contemporary Rolex release has all the signature elements, from dual time zones to an annual calendar. It is fitted to both oyster and jubilee bracelet designs.

Available in four dial options: Bright blue, Mint green, Intense white and Bright black.

Sky-Dweller Model	Combination	RRP
Ref. 336934	Steel & White gold/Bright blue dial/Oyster bracelet	£13,850
Ref. 336934	Steel & White gold/Mint green dial/Oyster bracelet	£13,850
Ref. 336934	Steel & White gold/Intense white dial/Oyster bracelet	£13,850
Ref. 336934	Steel & White gold/Bright black dial/Oyster bracelet	£13,850
Ref. 336934	Steel & White gold/Intense white/Jubilee bracelet	£14,050
Ref. 336934	Steel & White gold/Bright black dial/Jubilee bracelet	£14,050
Ref. 336934	Steel & White Gold/Bright blue dial/Jubilee bracelet	£14,050
Ref. 336934	Steel & White gold/Mint green dial/Jubilee bracelet	£14,050

6. Sky-Dweller Ref. 336935

One of the most notable additions to the Sky-Dweller lineup is the Ref. 336935, presented in Everose gold. While yellow gold is a classic, the hue and lustre of Everose gold is truly something to behold. The watches are a true statement of luxury, offered with fantastic new dial colours and bracelet styles.

Available in four dial options: Blue-green, Slate, Intense white and Chocolate.

Sky-Dweller Model	Combination	RRP
Ref. 336935	18ct Everose gold/Blue-green dial/Oyster bracelet	£46,300
Ref. 336935	18ct Everose gold/Slate dial/Oyster bracelet	£46,300
Ref. 336935	18ct Everose gold/Intense white dial/Oyster bracelet	£46,300
Ref. 336935	18ct Everose gold/Chocolate dial/Oyster bracelet	£46,300
Ref. 336935	18ct Everose gold/Blue-green dial/Jubilee bracelet	£47,200
Ref. 336935	18ct Everose gold/Slate dial/Jubilee bracelet	£47,200
Ref. 336935	18ct Everose gold/Intense white dial/Jubilee bracelet	£47,200
Ref. 336935	18ct Everose Gold/Chocolate dial/Jubilee bracelet	£47,200

7. Sky-Dweller Ref. 336938

With a solid 18ct yellow gold construction, the Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 336938 is truly eye-catching. The watches offer both elegance and practicality, and the combination of yellow gold and white dial is the most chic and modern. Choose from oyster and jubilee bracelet options to suit your taste.

Available in three dial options: Champagne, Bright black and Intense white.

Sky-Dweller Model	Combination	RRP
Ref. 336938	18ct Yellow gold/Champagne dial/Oyster bracelet	£43,800
Ref. 336938	18ct Yellow gold/Bright black dial/Oyster bracelet	£43,800
Ref. 336938	18ct Yellow gold/Intense white dial/Oyster bracelet	£43,800
Ref. 336938	18ct Yellow Gold/Bright black dial/Jubilee bracelet	£44,700
Ref. 336938	18ct Yellow gold/Champagne dial/Jubilee bracelet	£44,700
Ref. 336938	18ct Yellow gold/Intense white dial/Jubilee bracelet	£44,700

Popular Discontinued Sky-Dweller Models

Although the Rolex Sky-Dweller has been around only since 2012, there are a handful of models that Rolex has already taken off the shelf. This includes many solid gold as well as full 18ct white gold references.

Here, we’ve listed the discontinued Rolex Sky-Dweller models that are no longer in production but might pique your interest. You can find good deals for these Sky-Dweller models in the secondary market.

Please note -The list includes but is not limited to, the following models.

Sky-Dweller Model	Combination	Secondary Market Price
Ref. 326933	Steel & Yellow Gold/Black dial/Oyster bracelet	Starting at £12,600
Ref. 326934	Steel & White gold/Blue dial/Oyster bracelet	Starting at £13,200
Ref. 326139	18ct White gold/Black dial/Leather Strap	Starting at £20,000
Ref. 326135	18ct Everose gold/Sundust dial/Leather Strap	Starting at £21,300
Ref. 326939	18ct white gold/White dial/Oyster bracelet	Starting at £22,500
Ref. 326138	18ct Yellow gold/Champagne dial/Leather Strap	Starting at £22,600
Ref. 326235	18ct Everose gold/Grey dial/Oysterflex bracelet	Starting at £28,000

What Makes The Rolex Sky-Dweller So Popular?

The Sky-Dweller is by far the most technologically advanced Rolex production, and there are four prominent reasons why you should show a little more love and respect to this future classic.

• Incredible Visual Aesthetics

Plain and straight-cut, the Sky-Dweller is gorgeous. While it boasts the heart of a tool watch, it embraces the elegance of a dress watch. The 42mm case diameter ensures it works for almost any occasion and wrist and speaks to a wide range of people. The most talked-about part of a Sky-Dweller is the dial, which encompasses several functionalities but is executed in a clean and highly legible manner.

However, the dial alone is not just the most alluring part of this timepiece. The fluted bezel made of precious metals elevates the appearance tenfold. The Rolex Sky-Dweller has a unique Ring Command bezel that allows the wearer to set the different watch functions.

• Variety of Models

The incredible metal options for the Rolex Sky-Dweller make it all the more alluring. It was only recently that Rolex offered the Sky-Dweller in solid 18ct gold only, which is why the watches had such stiff prices. When Rolex rolled out the models in stainless steel with an 18ct white gold bezel, the prices dropped significantly. Additionally, the dial colours and bracelet options made it more appealing to a wide spectrum of Rolex buyers.

Today, the Sky-Dweller is available in Everose gold, yellow gold, stainless steel and white gold (White Rolesor), and a yellow gold and stainless steel option (Yellow Rolesor).

• Innovative spirit

The Sky-Dweller is the best presentation of Rolex’s commitment to innovation and excellence. One of the most distinguished features of the Sky-Dweller is the Saros annual calendar. This technical innovation allows wearers to easily switch between different time zones and track the date without requiring frequent adjustments. It also boasts a dual-time display, which is helpful for people traversing multiple time zones.

• Valuable investment

Over the years, the Sky-Dweller has emerged as one of the most popular Rolex collections with a lot of investment potential. According to the latest watch reports, the secondary market prices for almost all Sky-Dweller models have picked up, with many exceeding their original values. For instance, the Rolex Sky-Dweller in white gold with a blue dial is the most in-demand, along with yellow gold versions with black dials.

Popular Rolex Sky-Dweller Models 

With its large case, innovative features, sophisticated GMT function and impressive range of options, the Rolex Sky-Dweller is much loved by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Here are some of the fan favourites:

1. Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 326934

Introduced in 2017, the Sky-Dweller Ref. 326934 is the quintessential travel watch, packed with modern sophistication and timeless elegance. The watch has a robust steel construction with a stylish fluted bezel in white gold. The glimmering blue dial is a canvas where beauty meets functionality, featuring a GMT function and Saros annual calendar that wanderers appreciate.

Specifications:

• Case: Stainless steel & 18ct White Gold
• Size: 42mm
• Dial: Blue
• Bracelet: Oyster/Jubilee bracelet
• Crystal: Sapphire Crystal
• Power Reserve: 72 hours
• Water Resistance: 100 metres

2. Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 326933

Embrace bi-colour brilliance with the Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref: 326933 in stainless steel and 18ct yellow gold. The bezel, hour markers, hands and crown are all made of yellow gold. This particular reference appeals to both the trendsetter and the traditionalist for its striking union of splendour and resilience. You can wear it for business and pleasure, sophistication and adventure. The watch seamlessly contributes to multiple worlds, making it a versatile companion.

Specifications:

• Case: Stainless steel & 18ct White Gold
• Size: 42mm
• Dial: Black/White/Champagne
• Bracelet: Oyster/Jubilee bracelet
• Crystal: Sapphire Crystal
• Power Reserve: 72 hours
• Water Resistance: 100 metres

3. Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 326135

The popularity of the rose gold watches among sports watch enthusiasts has led to the increased demand and popularity of the Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 326135. This rose gold marvel doesn’t just sit appropriately on the wrist but adorns it with the sun's warmth. It’s impossible not to notice the ‘Rose Gold’ elegance. Additionally, the chocolate dial and leather strap offer a statement-making aesthetic. For a connoisseur, the Sky-Dweller Ref. 326135 is more than a mere timepiece.

Specifications:

• Case: 18ct Everose Gold
• Size: 42mm
• Dial: Chocolate
• Bracelet: Leather Strap
• Crystal: Sapphire Crystal
• Power Reserve: 72 hours
• Water Resistance: 100 metres

4. Rolex Sky-Dweller Ref. 336935

Released in 2023, the Sky-Dweller Ref. 336935 is a new and notable addition to Rolex’s long list of sophisticated timepieces. Constructed in 18ct Everose gold, this watch exemplifies luxury with its stunning blue-green dial and jubilee bracelet. Most popular for its elegance and bold aesthetic, the Sky-Dweller Ref. 336935 is particularly appealing to frequent travellers and business professionals due to its sense of luxury and mechanical brilliance.

Specifications:

• Case: 18ct Everose Gold
• Size: 42mm
• Dial: Blue-Green
• Bracelet: 18ct Everose Gold Jubilee
• Crystal: Sapphire Crystal
• Power Reserve: 72 hours
• Water Resistance: 100 metres

Buying New vs. Pre-Owned

Both choices have their own pros and cons, but it is getting easier to find a pre-owned Rolex Sky-Dweller on sale. However, the prices have all jacked up.

Like most Rolex watches, you cannot expect to walk into a Rolex boutique and buy a Sky-Dweller of your choice on the same day. If you’re eyeing a popular Sky-Dweller model like the white Rolesor version with a blue dial or the new 18ct gold model on Oysterflex bracelets, be prepared to encounter multi-year waiting lists at the retail level. Additionally, these watches carry steep premiums over their brand-new counterparts on the secondary market.

For those poised to include a piece of this horological wonder in their collection, shop high-quality pre-owned Rolex Sky-Dweller models at The Luxury Hut. Select from a range of popular models available at great prices for sale both in-store and online, and you can come and try them out in person to see which one is right for you. Call 0207 242 9160 for more details. 

Conclusion

By now, you must have realised that not many watches are as exciting and interesting as the Sky-Dweller. This elegant and technically brilliant timepiece is aimed at those who see the world as a single territory and need a companion to navigate.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller needing a reliable companion or a collector seeking a worthy timepiece, the Rolex Sky-Dweller offers unparalleled quality and versatility. Use this guide to make an informed and confident purchase decision.