Rolex Perpetual 1908 with Settimo Bracelet

Rolex expands the dress-oriented 1908 collection with a new configuration that significantly changes its visual impact and wrist presence. The Rolex 1908 ref. 52508 introduces a solid 18k yellow gold bracelet, named the Settimo, paired with the existing 39mm case and dial options. With this addition, the 1908 sheds some of its formality in favor of a more versatile and vintage-inspired personality. Though mechanically unchanged, this release marks a notable evolution for one of Rolex’s few open-caseback offerings.
Crafted from 18k yellow gold, the Rolex 1908 maintains the same refined proportions as previous models, measuring 39mm in diameter and just 9.5mm in thickness. The case showcases Rolex’s elegant “dual-finish” bezel, half fluted and half domed, a detail that subtly distinguishes the 1908 from other Rolex collections. Fully polished across all surfaces, the case exudes a classic, high-lustre dress watch aesthetic, paired with a domed sapphire crystal for a seamless top profile.
Through the sapphire crystal caseback wearers are treated to a full view of Rolex’s beautifully executed Calibre 7140. This hand-wound movement, developed specifically for the 1908, features traditional finishing techniques that include Geneva stripes and polished bevels. Its openworked 18k yellow gold rotor provides bi-directional winding, while the presence of a Syloxi hairspring in silicon ensures superior stability and resistance to magnetic fields. It comes equipped with a slim, fluted screw-down crown signed with the Rolex coronet, echoing the fine detailing of the bezel. The tapered lugs are neatly polished and designed to flow naturally into the new Settimo bracelet, whose seven-link construction enhances both comfort and wrist presence. Water-resistance can reach up to 50 meters (164 feet).
The Rolex 1908 retains the same elegant dial options previously seen in the collection, offered in either matte white or deep black. Both dials feature a sunken small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock, slightly recessed to add visual depth without disrupting the dial’s symmetry. The white variant evokes a classic vintage dress aesthetic, while the black dial leans slightly more modern and formal.
Framing the dial is a railway-style minute track, giving it a subtle precision-instrument feel that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the 18k yellow gold applied numerals. The signature 3, 9, and 12 Arabic numerals are complemented by slender baton hour markers, all faceted and polished to catch the light from every angle. The layout remains clean and minimal, with no date window to interrupt the dial’s balance.The leaf-shaped hour and minute hands, along with the polished small seconds hand, are also rendered in yellow gold to match the case. Their slender proportions are ideal for a dress watch, offering excellent legibility without overwhelming the dial. As with other 1908 references, there is no luminous material, keeping the aesthetic refined and traditional.

Rolex Perpetual 1908 with Settimo Bracelet

The “Rolex Perpetual 1908” (Ref#: 52508) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 7140 with 38 jewels and 28,800 vph. It comes equipped with a Syloxi hairspring in silicon, Paraflex shock absorbers, Chronergy escapement, and small hacking seconds. Power reserve can last up to 66 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted on the watch is the new Settimo bracelet, crafted entirely from solid 18k yellow gold to match the case. Composed of seven closely linked segments, the bracelet offers enhanced articulation and a refined drape on the wrist. Its high-polish finish complements the elegance of the 1908, while the concealed folding clasp preserves a seamless silhouette, only revealed by a small Rolex crown tab. Rolex refers to a “special system” used to connect the bracelet to the case, making it exclusive to the 1908 line.
For more up to date information visit the official Rolex website here.

MSRP: $35,000.00 USD

Rolex, Perpetual, 1908, Settimo, Watches & Wonders, Luxury Watches