WATCH TEST

A Watch for All Seasons: Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39


If you want just one, all-purpose watch, our watch tester says Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual might be it. Find out more about in this in-depth review of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39 from the WatchTime archives.

If you want just one, all-purpose watch, our watch tester says Rolex’s new entry-level model, the Oyster Perpetual, might be it.

If you are like me, you sometimes wish you owned a watch that you could wear on every occasion, something that would go well with every outfit and activity, that wouldn’t be ostentatious but would still have character. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39, introduced in 2015, would seem to fit that bill. Its design comes close to perfection. Its sportily elegant appearance goes equally well with a business suit or a polo shirt. And its size (39 mm) is correctly proportioned for nearly every wrist, and is not overly conspicuous.

With gently curving lugs and a broad bezel, the case of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual makes a harmonious impression.

The popular Datejust was the godfather for the shapes of the hands, the indexes and the case. Little blue blocks adjacent to the hour indexes add a touch of excitement and combine with the anthracite-colored and sunburst-finished dial to create an attractive color combination that looks modern, elegant and special.

With gently curving lugs and a broad bezel, the case makes a harmonious impression. All surfaces (except the upper planes of the lugs) are polished. As is almost always the situation on a Rolex wristwatch, the flat sapphire crystal rises above the level of the case, but slopes diagonally downward along its periphery to deflect potential shocks. Proofs of authenticity include Rolex’s crown- shaped logo lasered into the sapphire crystal at 6 o’clock, the name “Rolex” engraved into the metal ring around the dial, Rolex’s crown logo as an appliqué at the 12, and the serial number at 6.

Rolex Day-Date - side

The crystal has no nonreflective coating and therefore legibility is not always ideal. Luminous material on the hands and on the indexes at 3, 6 and 9 facilitates orientation in the dark. There’s no date display. Its absence assures a tidy-looking dial, but might dissuade some from buying this model. If you’re one of them, Rolex offers the Datejust in 36-mm and 41-mm versions, each with a magnifying lens above the date display, and each at a significantly higher price.

With a water-resistance rating of 100 meters, the Oyster Perpetual 39 is well suited for daily use.

Due to the lack of a date display, operating the Oyster Perpetual 39 is refreshingly simple. The crown, which unscrews easily, has only two extracted positions: one to wind the mainspring and another to set the hands. This model also provides a convenient stop-seconds function that halts the balance, and thus also the hands, to facilitate to-the-second time setting.

The horizontal bar under Rolex’s crown-shaped logo on the winding button stands for the Twinlock crown. With a water-resistance rating of 100 meters, the Oyster Perpetual 39 is impermeable enough for a sportily elegant watch and is well suited for daily use.

The caseback of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39 is fully threaded: underneath it is Caliber 3132. It differs from its predecessor (Caliber 3130), which powers the smaller, 36-mm and 34-mm models, in that it has a Parachrom balance spring and Paraflex shock absorption. (Parachrom is an alloy of niobium and zirconium; Paraflex is a patented, specially shaped shock-absorbing device. Both were developed in house.) Caliber 3132 is based on the familiar Caliber 3135 with date display, which ticks inside the Submariner and the Datejust.

Rolex Day-Date - back
Caliber 3132 (visible here with caseback removed) has a Parachrom balance spring and Paraflex shock absorption. Winding is bidirectional.

Each of these Rolex manufacture calibers is a good choice if you want to own just one watch because watchmakers rate all of them among the best automatic movements on the market. They earn this distinction for several reasons: they’re quite robust; their architecture is designed to maximize longevity; and they can be finely adjusted with extreme precision. That’s why a sturdy balance bridge takes the place of an ordinary balance cock, which is borne on only one side. Two knurled screws can be turned to adjust the vertical play. A Breguet terminal curve on the balance spring contributes to precise timekeeping in every situation, as does the regulator-free fine adjustment mechanism via Microstella nuts on the balance. No matter which way the rotor happens to turn, red anodized wheels in the self-winding subassembly convey its kinetic energy with minimal friction.

The balance spring is unaffected by magnetic fields. This component is also reputed to be able to cope with shocks and vibrations 10 times more effectively than conventional balance springs. The Paraflex shock-absorption system also dampers shocks better than standard shock absorbers.

The movement’s engineering and decoration are equally impressive. For example, a handsome sunburst adorns the automatic bridge and the rotor. The latter boasts Rolex’s characteristic piercings. Other bridges are embellished with circular graining, also known as “perlage.” All bridges and plates are plated with rhodium and their edges are beveled and polished. The polished heads of the screws look quite pretty, too. Rolex regrettably opted for a solid, not transparent, caseback. It would have offered a lovely view of the mechanisms, while simultaneously making life more difficult for would-be counterfeiters. Must you be willing to forego a visible movement if you opt for a one-and-only watch? Each potential buyer will have to answer this question himself.

Caliber 3132 is based on the familiar Caliber 3135 with date display, which ticks inside the Submariner and the Datejust.

The rate results clearly show which five positions Rolex used when finely adjusting the watch. The results would have been nearly perfect were it not for the rogue value posted in the uncommon “crown left” position. If you eliminate this stray number, you’ll come up with a calculated average deviation of zero seconds per day. Even if you include the “crown left” number, the final results are sufficiently precise.

But what about the price? Debiting $5,700* from your bank account will provide you with the least costly entrée into Rolex’s world of gents’ watches. You’ll have to pay significantly more ($7,150*) for the 41-mm-diameter Datejust II with date display. Our tested watch offers the best cost-benefit ratio of all Rolex models.

Of course, the concept of a “one-and- only watch” is a myth. If you’re like me, you’ll always become infatuated with another watch. You’ll yearn for it and gaze longingly at it until you finally possess it. But if you were damned to a life of horological monogamy and were permitted to own just one, then the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39 would be a very good choice – assuming, of course, that you’re willing to do without a date display or a transparent back. If so, then this model’s go-with-every-outfit-and-every-occasion styling, large-enough-but-not- too-large dimensions, and robustly well- engineered self-winding movement will ensure that your wrist is well equipped for whatever the day – or the night – has up its sleeve.

FINAL RESULTS:

SPECS:
Manufacturer: Rolex SA, Rue François- Dussaud 3–7, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
Reference number: 114300 Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Movement: Self-winding manufacture Caliber 3132, chronometer, 28,800 vph, 31 jewels, stop-seconds function, Paraflex shock absorption, Parachrom balance spring with Breguet terminal curve, Glucydur balance with Microstella nuts for fine adjustment, 48-hour power reserve, diameter = 28.5 mm, height = 5.37 mm
Case: 904L stainless steel; flat, but not nonreflective, sapphire crystal; threaded Twinlock crown; fully threaded 904L stainless-steel back; water resistant to 100 meters
Bracelet and clasp: 904L stainless-steel Oyster bracelet with folding Oysterclasp
Rate results (Deviations in seconds per 24 hours):
Dial up +2
Dial down +2
Crown up 0
Crown down -1
Crown left -5
Crown right +2
Greatest deviation of rate 7
Average deviation 0
Average amplitude:
Flat positions 293°
Hanging positions 263°
Dimensions: Diameter = 39 mm, height = 11 mm, weight = 131 grams
Price: $5,700*

SCORES:
Bracelet and clasp (max. 10 points): The tidily crafted steel bracelet culminates in an easy-to-use folding clasp. 9
Operation (5): The crown is easy to operate; a stop-seconds function contributes to speedy, simple and accurate time setting. 5
Case (10): The well-crafted steel case has neatly polished and satin-finished sides. 9
Design (15): Sportily elegant, contemporary design 12
Legibility (5): The reflective crystal detracts somewhat from the legibility. 4
Wearing comfort (10): Nothing pinches or scratches: notwithstanding the steel bracelet, the wearing comfort is very high. 10
Movement (20): Robust, precise and handsomely decorated 18
Rate results (10): The rate is sufficiently accurate, but connoisseurs are accustomed to even better performance from a Rolex. 7
Overall value (15): The most affordable choice in a men’s-size Rolex; the cost- benefit ratio is very good. 13
TOTAL: 87 POINTS

* Prices are subject to change.

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No Responses to “A Watch for All Seasons: Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39”

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  1. Wayne Silva

    I love my oyster 36. Less than a year old. The time is only off one second a day maximum. Regardless of the activity. When I go to the dentist I’ll wear my oyster and leave my day date at home. I really like the 70 power reserve on the 3230.

    Reply
  2. Bill Crowell

    I have many expensive watches but
    Even my entry priced watches have
    A date function

    Reply
  3. Daryl Ward Snyder

    Your review articulated every criteria is used to purchase my first Rolex from my local AD this week. Bought the OP39 with a white dial. It’s only gained one second during its first 72 hours on my wrist.

    Regarding the comment on the Omega AquaTerra – why not have both? I do. The Master Coaxial in my AT is an exceptional movement, as well.

    Reply
  4. The Oyster Perpetual is the purest expression of the Oyster concept, providing a clear and accurate time display. This watch is the direct descendant of the original Oyster launched in 1926, the first waterproof wristwatch in the world and the foundation on which Rolex has built its reputation.

    Reply
  5. Jack T

    Similar to the Explorer, my third Rolex – versatile, durable and reliable. Had it been my first, it might have been my only Rolex. The 36mm OP had one of my favorite dials, but this new one is just great.

    Reply
  6. Kenneth Mcphaul, Jr.

    This is a descret elegant watch designed for the low key consumer. I have three different Rolex models. I wear this every day!

    Reply
  7. Dennis Buzis

    Great article! I love this Watch! To spend anymore money is ridiculous!!! My Forever piece is this one, the Rolex 39m Oyster Perpetual in Blue

    Reply
    • Why would spending any more be ridiculous? Because you wouldn’t? Some would argue spending close to 6K on a watch is ridiculous.

      Reply
  8. Nico Schön

    Dear Jens,

    You mention a caliber 3132. According to the Rolex site it is a 3255. Is 3132 a mistake or am I misunderstanding something.
    Look forward to your reaction.

    Best regards,

    Nico

    Reply
  9. What is all this concern about the Oyster Perpetual not having a see through back? Have you ever seen any Rolex with a see through back? If you have, it is fake!

    Reply
  10. Love this watch! I’m currently deciding between this and a Yachtmaster 40 with a rhodium dial as well!

    Reply
  11. Nicholas A Smith, Jr.

    Exclnt & very helpful review. Been having difficulty making my decision amongst several Rolex products and this sealed it I believe.

    Reply
  12. Ian Price

    I can’t find the crown shaped logo lasered into the crystal at 6 o’clock or rolex engraved around the metal dial have I bought s dud

    Reply
    • Ian, I had exactly the same worry. Even with a Loupe it is quite difficult to see, however eventually though you should see it. I sort of rotated the watch to catch the light and suddenly there it was as clear as day. You will need a loupe or some sort of magnifier though. Hope you locate it

      Reply
    • davecroft

      Looks like it. The crown at 6 o’clock is quite hard to see but with a loupe you shouldn’t have a problem. The engraving around the dial is hard to miss though, even with the naked eye. If you can’t see that I would be worried.

      Reply
  13. Kevin Nelson

    I picked up this very watch last weekend, after waiting for a local AD to receive the dark rhodium dial version. We all know the mythical “perfect watch” does not exsist, but, for me, this is very close. It’s a classic looking, understated, quality watch from Rolex.

    Reply
  14. I’m curious what is meant by accuracy crown left and crown right. A watch can be crystal up or down or standing on dge crown up or crown down. Can’t determine what crown left or right refers to other than on edge with 12 o’clock up or 6 o’clock up.

    Reply
  15. Teresa Johnson

    I would like a catalog of all the newest 2016 watches Rolex

    Reply
  16. Smellycat

    I had my Rolex Sub for 15 years gave it to my son now he has one. I just bought the Rolex GMT “Batman” well worth the wait to me there is no other watch other than a Rolex

    Reply
    • to me there is no other watch than a Rolex There waits a whole world of fantastic watches for you to discover!

      Reply
  17. I’ve never considered myself a Rolex guy (whatever that means), but I could see wearing this one. It really would be a great one-watch collection, and the price actually seems (almost) reasonable.

    Reply
  18. Billy Tellinhaus

    On my soap box here… While it is certainly done, a Rolex in any guise (other than their dress watch line, and I don’t mean the lipstick-on-a-pig oysters and Datonas with leather straps), does not “go well with every outfit.” And “it’s sportily elegant appearance” does NOT go “equally well with a business suit or a polo shirt.” It’s so clichéd to hear you say it and I really think you do disservice to the sector of the industry that focuses on refined, elegant offerings that really ARE meant to be worn with a jacket. Rolex makes a fine watch. My Explorer II keeps great time and has truly taken its fair share do abuse over the years but in no way does it or its other metal strapped brethren look good with a suit. It looks herd. As in herd mentality. Grow a set and call it for what it is: an entry-level Rolex sport watch.

    Reply
    • Scott Lalonde

      Bravo to you, Mr. Tellinhaus, for having a strong opinion about watches.
      However, I’m afraid that’s all it is: your OPINION. I just love it when
      people post their personal taste as fact. So, is that it? A person must
      wear a gold, 3 handed, round face timepiece from the alphabet companies
      (AP, BP, PP, VC etc…) while wearing a suit? Talk about herd mentality.

      To me, a person wearing an oyster band Rolex with a suit looks like a
      refined man (or woman), but a man (or woman) of action. It says “I’m a
      gentleman…for now!” I know this sounds clichéd, but the movie character
      James Bond would think nothing of wearing a steel Sub, or later on Planet
      Ocean, while wearing a suit or even a tux. To MY taste, I’ll wear that
      oyster banded Rolex, or a steel banded Breitling, with a suit and if
      anyone doesn’t like it, too bad!

      Reply
      • Amen! I own several 36 mm dress watches but hardly wear them. Their delicate nature and lack of water resistance worries me. Why are all of these big buck watches from PP, BC, AP and the like only 30 meters water resistant when Invicta can build a 200 meter watch for 99 bucks? Was looking at. VC Quai de L’ile. Love the watch. But to pay 15 grand for a at watch that is only 30 meters water resistant, I don’t think so. I am not a Rolex lover but at least they are built to last. Wearing a Sub, Datejust or Daytona with a suit wouldn’t bother me.

        Reply
        • George G.

          Bob: I have a very skinny wrist and most luxury watches are large, which is why I don’t own one. Can you kindly post the 36-mm watches you own? Thank you in advance.

          Reply
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