would you buy a Rolex Action ?

[DG123]

If Rolex made a 38mm to 41mm "general sports watch" would you buy one ?
Not a divers , car racing, pilots, world traveler, or yachting watch, but a watch designed for wearing with sporty , casual clothes.
I am thinking brushed stainless Oyster bracelet, new design machine turned bezel, basic stick dial ofered in some new colors like blue, green, red, maybe a shade of yellow etc... A basic watch, , similar to the current Explorer but with a new bezel and a variety of colored dial options. I like the name "Action" for this model. MSRP $5,800.What do you think ?
All opinions welcome.

[subkrawler]

Originally Posted by DG123

If Rolex made a 38mm to 41mm "general sports watch" would you buy one ?
Not a divers , car racing, pilots, world traveler, or yachting watch, but a watch designed for wearing with sporty , casual clothes.
I am thinking brushed stainless Oyster bracelet, new design machine turned bezel, basic stick dial ofered in some new colors like blue, green, red, maybe a shade of yellow etc... A basic watch, , similar to the current Explorer but with a new bezel and a variety of colored dial options. I like the name "Action" for this model. MSRP $5,800.What do you think ?
All opinions welcome.

They kind of already do....the Turn-o-Graph.

[Fiery]

I think Rolex's portfolio is already full, so such a watch wouldn't fit in.

As for design, I suppose you mean something like the colorful Air-King and OP dials. I'd approve of that, but I think the diameter should rather be 42-43mm, since there're too many Rolex sports models in the 39-40mm range.

I personally wouldn't buy a new model, since part of the appeal of Rolex models to me is the heritage and pedigree. I may only care about a model released this year 20-30 years from now.

[DG123]

When I look at the Rolex Professional line I see sport-specific watches including the Sub(diving), YM (yachting), Daytona (race driving), Explorer (mountain climbing) and professional watches for career GMT (piloting-travel) , Milgauss (scientific).
What I don't see is a watch designed for general sports and, or, to go with a sporty casual wardrobe.
By colorful dial I did not mean the youthful graphics of some of the newer AK's and OP's. I meant basic Rolex stick dials offered in new solid colors, such as blue, or green, red, yellow, maybe a shade of grey etc....
It's been awhile since Rolex added a brand new model-concept. I think something designed for general sports, in addition to Rolex's sport-specific designs, make sense.
In its advertisng for the Rolex Action the company could use pro athletes, amateur athletes, spectators etc....Anybody into football, baseball, basketball, golf, tennis, bowling,swimming, cricket, rugby, soccer, playing or spectating, is a potential customer.

Originally Posted by Fiery

I think Rolex's portfolio is already full, so such a watch wouldn't fit in.

As for design, I suppose you mean something like the colorful Air-King and OP dials. I'd approve of that, but I think the diameter should rather be 42-43mm, since there're too many Rolex sports models in the 39-40mm range.

I personally wouldn't buy a new model, since part of the appeal of Rolex models to me is the heritage and pedigree. I may only care about a model released this year 20-30 years from now.

[ecsub44]

To me, the new Explorer fits the "general sports watch" category to a T.

I'm not sure there's really anything about the Explorer that really makes me think of mountain climbing...other than the history with the watch. Now if it had an altimeter and/or barometer or something, then maybe I could see...

[DG123]

I like the Explorer. But, it only comes with a black face.Also, the Explorer does have a long history, at least on the marketing side, of an association with mountain climbing.
My thinking is that "general sports" is a huge target market, fitting every sports player or sports spectator worldwide. So maybe Rolex could have success designing and producing a true general sports model watch.

Originally Posted by ecsub44

To me, the new Explorer fits the "general sports watch" category to a T.

I'm not sure there's really anything about the Explorer that really makes me think of mountain climbing...other than the history with the watch. Now if it had an altimeter and/or barometer or something, then maybe I could see...

[GradyPhilpott]

Originally Posted by ecsub44

To me, the new Explorer fits the "general sports watch" category to a T.

I agree with this and would include any stainless DJ, not to mention the new Air-King.

It would be nice if Rolex reintroduced the engine turned bezels, though.

[liptonnr]

Hey if the watch is appealing; anything is fair game. I would buy any rolex if it tickled my fancy!

[GradyPhilpott]

Actaully, despite the fact that the Explorer has its roots in mountain climbing, it is supposed to be a general sports watch.

It's clean easy to read dial, without the need for a date complication and its otherwise no-nonsense style are what makes the watch a general sports watch.

Getting into other colored dials wouldn't serve any function except fashion and for fashion one can go with an OP.

Unfortunately for some, the size issue is not likely to be resolved anytime soon.

Maybe a 39mm OP is on the way.

I'd like to also point out that in reality, every watch in the Oyster line is a sports watch, so if one accepts that, then the field opens up considerably.

[DG123]

I agree the Explorer is suitable as a general sports watch. But, it only comes with a black dial. And it does have mountain climbing as its design origin.
I think the "general sports" concept is large enough to have its own Rolex model. Something new and different.

Originally Posted by GradyPhilpott

Actaully, despite the fact that the Explorer has its roots in mountain climbing, it is supposed to be a general sports watch.

It's clean easy to read dial, without the need for a date complication and its otherwise no-nonsense style are what makes the watch a general sports watch.

Getting into other colored dials wouldn't serve any function except fashion and for fashion one can go with an OP.

Unfortunately for some, the size issue is not likely to be resolved anytime soon.

Maybe a 39mm OP is on the way.

I'd like to also point out that in reality, every watch in the Oyster line is a sports watch, so if one accepts that, then the field opens up considerably.

[77T]

Originally Posted by DG123

If Rolex made a 38mm to 41mm "general sports watch" would you buy one ?
Not a divers , car racing, pilots, world traveler, or yachting watch, but a watch designed for wearing with sporty , casual clothes.
I am thinking brushed stainless Oyster bracelet, new design machine turned bezel, basic stick dial ofered in some new colors like blue, green, red, maybe a shade of yellow etc... A basic watch, , similar to the current Explorer but with a new bezel and a variety of colored dial options. I like the name "Action" for this model. MSRP $5,800.What do you think ?
All opinions welcome.

IMHO, the Air-King already fills that market niche - albeit in a 34mm format.

[DG123]

Air King design inspiration was to create a watch for pilots.

Originally Posted by 77T

IMHO, the Air-King already fills that market niche - albeit in a 34mm format.

[Explorer 2011]

I'm sure some of the fotoshop experts on here could illustrate your thoughts for us! However I'm thinking no at the moment IMHO.

[HKtoter]

Originally Posted by Explorer 2011

I'm sure some of the fotoshop experts on here could illustrate your thoughts for us! However I'm thinking no at the moment IMHO.

x2

[Dweller of the Sea]

They already have a multi-purpose watch, the Explorer I.

A regular Datejust is also, in my eyes, a multi-purpose watch. They can be worn with everything and in everything.

[Juantxo]

Originally Posted by Dweller of the Sea

They already have a multi-purpose watch, the Explorer I.

A regular Datejust is also, in my eyes, a multi-purpose watch. They can be worn with everything and in everything.

Ditto.

[SaddleSC]

The problem I see with this idea is twofold:
1) The Explorer I already fills this role quite well (other than the multi-colored dials) which I don't see as a feature that many people are looking for; and more importantly
2) Every single sports model that Rolex makes (Sub, SD, GMT II, Explorer II) is perfectly suited for any sport or activity that you choose to pursue. I have never felt like my Sub could only be used around water or my GMT had to be taken off immediately upon entering my home time zone. Rolex has built their reputation on building robust watches that suit any occasion. For me, the Rolex Action already exists inside of every single sports model they have ever made.

[Dweller of the Sea]

Originally Posted by SaddleSC

The problem I see with this idea is twofold:
1) The Explorer I already fills this role quite well (other than the multi-colored dials) which I don't see as a feature that many people are looking for; and more importantly
2) Every single sports model that Rolex makes (Sub, SD, GMT II, Explorer II) is perfectly suited for any sport or activity that you choose to pursue. I have never felt like my Sub could only be used around water or my GMT had to be taken off immediately upon entering my home time zone. Rolex has built their reputation on building robust watches that suit any occasion. For me, the Rolex Action already exists inside of every single sports model they have ever made.

+1

[Deldog]

Originally Posted by SaddleSC

The problem I see with this idea is twofold:
1) The Explorer I already fills this role quite well (other than the multi-colored dials) which I don't see as a feature that many people are looking for; and more importantly
2) Every single sports model that Rolex makes (Sub, SD, GMT II, Explorer II) is perfectly suited for any sport or activity that you choose to pursue. I have never felt like my Sub could only be used around water or my GMT had to be taken off immediately upon entering my home time zone. Rolex has built their reputation on building robust watches that suit any occasion. For me, the Rolex Action already exists inside of every single sports model they have ever made.

I get what the OP is saying, but ... +2!

[WatchTimes]

Originally Posted by SaddleSC

The problem I see with this idea is twofold:
1) The Explorer I already fills this role quite well (other than the multi-colored dials) which I don't see as a feature that many people are looking for; and more importantly
2) Every single sports model that Rolex makes (Sub, SD, GMT II, Explorer II) is perfectly suited for any sport or activity that you choose to pursue. I have never felt like my Sub could only be used around water or my GMT had to be taken off immediately upon entering my home time zone. Rolex has built their reputation on building robust watches that suit any occasion. For me, the Rolex Action already exists inside of every single sports model they have ever made.

x3

[DG123]

I understand one can wear a divers watch to play or spectate any sport.
Some consumers are interested in staying true to the original design intention for the products that they own. For example, I don't wear running shoes unless I am running. I live in the USA (where there are speed limits) and I don't rent out a racetrack. So I don't own a sports car. I only wear my golf shirts or golf hats when I am playing golf etc... Other people wear or use a product because they like to, regardless of the original designer's intended application. And that's fine too. Consumers make their own choices.
My point is that Rolex has a history of making sport specific watches. I think it is worth consideration for Rolex to produce a true general sports design watch. When I was shopping for a Rolex I did look at all the Professional/Sports models. However those all seemed to me to be for specific sports, which I don't play or even spectate, so I turned my attention to Rolex's non-sports models. If Rolex had offered a general sports watch I definitely would have considered buying one.

Originally Posted by SaddleSC

The problem I see with this idea is twofold:
1) The Explorer I already fills this role quite well (other than the multi-colored dials) which I don't see as a feature that many people are looking for; and more importantly
2) Every single sports model that Rolex makes (Sub, SD, GMT II, Explorer II) is perfectly suited for any sport or activity that you choose to pursue. I have never felt like my Sub could only be used around water or my GMT had to be taken off immediately upon entering my home time zone. Rolex has built their reputation on building robust watches that suit any occasion. For me, the Rolex Action already exists inside of every single sports model they have ever made.

[SaddleSC]

Originally Posted by DG123

Some consumers are interested in staying true to the original design intention for the products that they own.

I think this type of consumer is certainly in the minority and Rolex is choosing to target the "average" buyer that purchases a watch because they like how it looks and they want to wear it to do pretty much everything.

I disagree that most Rolex buyers will only wear a watch in situations that stay true to its original design purpose. For example, I own two Submariners and two Sea Dwellers and I have never once been scuba diving. My intuition tells me that not many Yachtmaster owners have an actual yacht and not many Daytona wearers drive a race car.

Keep in mind that the opinions expressed on TRF are those of collectors, hobbyists and WIS and most likely represent about 1% of the Rolex-buying public. Most people simply buy what looks good (to them) and that is about as deep as their analysis goes.

[DG123]

Nice post, Saddle.
For the record, I never said or implied that "most Rolex buyers will only wear a watch in situations that stay true to its original design purpose".
I certainly agree with your comment that "people buy what looks good to them,. and that is about as deep as their analysis goes". No question that is true. I see LandRovers which never get more off road than a speed bump in a neighborhood subdivision. And in December in Wisconsin I know girls wear flip flop sandals. My neighbor has a Porsche Targa which can do 160mph but I doubt he ever goes more than 75mph etc....
I am aware that my choice of wearing or using items for their original design intended application is a minority perspective.
That said, I do believe Rolex may have an opportunity to attract new customers, or get a current owner to buy an additional watch, by offering a new model name with a new intended application. If the watch looks really good I expect consumers will buy it.

Originally Posted by SaddleSC

I think this type of consumer is certainly in the minority and Rolex is choosing to target the "average" buyer that purchases a watch because they like how it looks and they want to wear it to do pretty much everything.

I disagree that most Rolex buyers will only wear a watch in situations that stay true to its original design purpose. For example, I own two Submariners and two Sea Dwellers and I have never once been scuba diving. My intuition tells me that not many Yachtmaster owners have an actual yacht and not many Daytona wearers drive a race car.

Keep in mind that the opinions expressed on TRF are those of collectors, hobbyists and WIS and most likely represent about 1% of the Rolex-buying public. Most people simply buy what looks good (to them) and that is about as deep as their analysis goes.

[SaddleSC]

Originally Posted by DG123

That said, I do believe Rolex may have an opportunity to attract new customers, or get a current owner to buy an additional watch, by offering a new model name with a new intended application. If the watch looks really good I expect consumers will buy it.

I completely agree!

[applebook]

No history? Highly unlikely, unless its appearance is simply irresistible. Most Rolex models have oodles of historical significance.

[DG123]

You bring up a good point. Historical significance is definitely a major part of Rolex's brand appeal and credibility.
But, at some point it is worth expanding upon the various existing 50 plus year old design inspirations and offer a new design/application concept.
You may be right, that a watch model with no name history and, or, application concept history will have little consumer demand. Then again, a totally new name and intended application might appeal to consumers. I respect history as much as the next guy, but I would also be interested to buy a watch model with a name and intended use that is brand new to Rolex.

Originally Posted by applebook

No history? Highly unlikely, unless its appearance is simply irresistible. Most Rolex models have oodles of historical significance.

[DG123]

I do understand and appreciate that much of the Rolex appeal is the historical significance of its various models.
That said, if Rolex introduced a new model name or two, this might be good for company sales and profits.
Here are a few examples:
General sports (golf-tennis-soccer-rugby etc...) watch might be named "Action".
Tech category(electronics-internet-communications etc..)watch might be named "Eline"
Nature category (weather--animals-plants etc...) watch might be named "Gravitas"

Chances are about 99.9% that Rolex will not be introducing a new model name anytime soon. But we're in a forum here, and I am bumping this 5.5 year old thread for no reason other than to encourage some discussion about this topic.
If you have a thought for a new Rolex watch category or name, please post it here.

[Old Expat Beast]

Originally Posted by DG123

I do understand and appreciate that much of the Rolex appeal is the historical significance of its various models.
That said, if Rolex introduced a new model name or two, this might be good for company sales and profits.
Here are a few examples:
General sports (golf-tennis-soccer-rugby etc...) watch might be named "Action".
Tech category(electronics-internet-communications etc..)watch might be named "Eline"
Nature category (weather--animals-plants etc...) watch might be named "Gravitas"

Chances are about 99.9% that Rolex will not be introducing a new model name anytime soon. But we're in a forum here, and I am bumping this 5.5 year old thread for no reason other than to encourage some discussion about this topic.
If you have a thought for a new Rolex watch category or name, please post it here.

Where have you been for the last five and a half years?

[second time]

Hehe it was like Rip Van Winkle just woke up and picked up the conversation where he left off!

[joe100]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

Where have you been for the last five and a half years?

Time warps a hell of a thing. Maybe he was in stasis