In the contemporary day and age of smartphone integration into just about every aspect of our lives, technology is advancing faster than ever before. As a result, digital watches, in particular, smartwatches have become increasingly popular. One of the most premium watch manufacturers in the world is Rolex which is known for high-end luxury timepieces, but do they ever venture outside the world of automatic movement, and does Rolex make a digital watch?
- Is there a digital Rolex watch?
- Do Rolex have plans to make a smartwatch?
- Alternatives to a Rolex digital watch
- Conclusion
In this article from the watch geeks at CALIBRE, we’ll explore the answer to this question and what a modern Rolex digital watch might look like, alongside any alternative models to potentially invest in.
Is There a Digital Rolex Watch?
Rolex does not currently produce digital watches. Rolex is renowned for its mechanical watches, which are powered by intricate movements that are crafted with precision and expertise. While Rolex has introduced many features throughout their model catalogue such as date complications and chronographs, they have not produced a true digital LCD watch with a digital display or a smart watch as of yet.
Make sure to not get confused by the April fools article from Monochrome Watches which claimed that Rolex had announced a digital watch back in 2015. It’s a pretty cool idea and the graphic they released with the article is actually incredibly sleek, but yeah, unfortunately, it was a joke.
What is a digital watch?
A digital watch is a type of timepiece that displays the time and other functions through an electronic digital display, as opposed to the traditional analog display of a mechanical watch. Digital watches are powered by a small battery that drives an electronic quartz crystal, which vibrates at a precise frequency to provide accurate timekeeping.
In addition to telling time, digital watches can include a range of functions such as alarms, timers, stopwatches, and even fitness trackers. Many digital watches also feature backlighting or illumination, making them easy to read in low-light conditions. While some watch enthusiasts may prefer the mechanical beauty of traditional watches, digital watches offer a practical and functional timekeeping solution for those who prioritise accuracy and convenience.
The Oysterquartz
The closest model to a Rolex digital watch currently would be the Oysterquartz. Whilst this is not a digital watch, it is the only model of Rolex that was powered with a battery (quartz movement). The Oysterquartz had its debut in 1977, and was a masterclass of 70’s design. Read our full guide about how Rolex watches are powered to find out more about the Rolex Oysterquartz.
Do Rolex Have Plans to Make a Smartwatch?
Rolex has not announced any plans to make a smartwatch. Rolex is a brand that is steeped in tradition and craftsmanship, and their watches are known for their precision, durability, and classic design. While some luxury watch brands have entered the smartwatch market, Rolex has maintained a focus on traditional mechanical watches and has not yet introduced any smartwatches. It’s worth noting that Rolex has always been a brand that prioritises quality over trendiness or novelty, and any decision to enter the smartwatch market would likely require significant research and development to ensure that the brand’s standards of excellence are met.
That being said, it’s always possible that Rolex may change its plans in the future, but as of now, there is no indication that they are working on a smartwatch.
Alternatives to a Rolex Digital Watch
As Rolex do not currently produce a digital or smart watch, let’s take a look at some alternative luxury watch brands that make smartwatches, so you can still cater to your premium digital watch cravings:
TAG Heuer Connected
The TAG Heuer Connected line of smartwatches is a great choice for those who want a luxury wearable that offers a wide range of features, elegant design, and excellent build quality. While the price may be a deterrent for some, those who are willing to invest in a high-end smartwatch will find that the TAG Heuer Connected line offers a great balance of style and substance. With its signature design, powerful features, and excellent battery life, the TAG Heuer Connected line is definitely worth considering if you’re in the market for a luxury smartwatch.
Montblanc Summit
The Montblanc Summit range of smartwatches is a great choice for those who want a luxury smartwatch that offers modern technology with the look of a premium piece. While the battery life may not be as long as some other smartwatches on the market, the Summit line makes up for it with its elegant design and craftsmanship. With its high-end aesthetic, excellent features, and classic style, the Montblanc Summit line is definitely worth considering if you’re in the market for a luxury smartwatch.
Garmin Marq
The Garmin Marq line of luxury smartwatches is a great choice for those who want a high-end smart watch that offers a wide range of features, advanced technology, and elegant design. While the price may be a deterrent for some, those who are willing to invest in a luxury smartwatch will find that the Garmin Marq line is arguably the best option available, especially if you actually want to use its incredible smartwatch capabilities. With its top craftsmanship, advanced GPS and fitness monitoring features, and long battery life, the Garmin Marq line is definitely worth considering.
Tissot T Touch
Tissot, a Swiss watchmaker with a reputation for quality and craftsmanship, has also ventured into the world of luxury smartwatches with their T Touch line. The T Touch line features a range of smartwatches that combine the classic style and elegance of traditional luxury watches with the latest digital wrist technology. The Tissot T Touch range is cool, collected and Swiss, and definitely a contender for your luxury smartwatch collection.
Conclusion: Digital Rolex Watches
Whilst we currently do not see a Rolex digital watch on the market, it is no surprise due to the brands commitment to horological excellence that they are steering away from this market. At CALIBRE, we would be interested to see what direction Rolex would go down if they did decide to pursue digital watches, however, at this moment in time there are plenty of alternative options from amazing brands.
