As a watch that features two time zones, a date display, and an annual calendar, the Sky-Dweller is one of the most complex timepieces in the modern Rolex catalog. Since the Rolex Sky-Dweller collection is fitted with ‘Saros’ (the name of its annual calendar complication) the watch’s date display automatically adjusts for the different numbers of days in each month and only requires resetting once per year – at the end of February.
Well, here we are; it’s now March 1st: time to reset the annual calendar on your Rolex Sky-Dweller!
Rolex Sky-Dweller
Sky-Dweller Key Features:
Case Size: 42mm
Materials: Yellow Gold, White Gold, Everose Gold, Yellow Rolesor, White Rolesor
Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display, Annual Calendar, Second Timezone
Dial: Multiple Options Available
Bezel: Ring Command, 18k Gold, Fluted Style
Crystal: Sapphire (Flat w/ Cyclops Lens)
Movement: Rolex Caliber 9001
Water Resistance: 100 Meters / 330 Feet
Strap/Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet, Leather Strap, Oysterflex Bracelet
Click here for our Ultimate Buying Guide on the Rolex Sky-Dweller.
Just the Facts
First launched in 2012, the Sky-Dweller is easily the most complex watch in Rolex’s current catalog. Combining a dual timezone display with GMT functionality and an annual calendar complication, the Rolex Sky-Dweller was designed to be the perfect luxury travel watch intended for traveling business executives and the jet-setting crowd.
We have covered the Rolex Sky-Dweller extensively in previous articles, so if you are unfamiliar with the watch, read one of our other posts on it for more information regarding its design, its display layout, and how its fluted, ‘Ring Command’ bezel is not just for decorative purposes, but rather it is linked to the in-house Caliber 9001 movement within and is integral to the functionality of the watch.
Instead of discussing the watch itself, we are going to focus on the innovative Caliber 9001, its annual calendar complication, and what you need to do to get your Rolex Sky-Dweller displaying the correct information for the next twelve months.
Annual Calendar vs. Perpetual Calendar
While their names may be similar, an annual calendar complication is not the same thing as a perpetual calendar. Both mechanisms account for the different number of days in the months; however, only a perpetual calendar keeps track of leap years.
In theory, with a perpetual calendar, you will (almost) not need to ever reset the watch as long as it stays running. Now, this is somewhat unrealistic with a mechanical movement, since variations in timekeeping will require adjustments to be made from time to time; and if nothing else, regularly-scheduled maintenance will require the watch to come to a stop at some point or another; however, the concept of full-autonomy is there.
With an annual calendar watch, you will be required to reset it once per year, every year, no matter what. Considering a standard watch with a date requires its calendar to be reset and the end of September, April, June, November, and three times (twice if it is a leap year) at the end of February, the once-per-year schedule of the Sky-Dweller doesn’t seem that bad.
All of that being said, you do not reset the Sky-Dweller’s annual calendar at the beginning of the new year like one would expect; instead, you reset it on March 1st. Considering that an annual calendar keeps track of everything except leap years, this makes perfect sense; however, it is worth mentioning (and remembering) since it is the only day of the year that you will be required to adjust this Rolex watch.
How To Set Your Rolex Sky-Dweller
So, now that we’ve run through the basics, let’s get on to how to set your watch.
Overview
THE RING COMMAND BEZEL – used to select which function on the watch will be adjusted when the winding crown is rotated. The bezel has a total of 4 positions – 0 through 3, with 0 being all the way to the right, and 3 being when the bezel is turned all the way to the left.
- POSITION 0 – you cannot change the time, date, month, nor the 24-hour GMT disc.
- POSITION 1 – used for setting the month and date
- POSITION 2 – used for setting the local time
- POSITION 3 – used for setting the reference time
To Set The Month And Date
- Unscrew the winding crown and then pull it out to the first notch.
- Rotate the bezel to position 1.
- Set the month by turning the crown in either direction. Cycle through the dates and months until you reach the current month, which is indicated by a contrasting color in one of the 12 windows located around the circumference of the dial: January at 1 o’clock, February at 2 o’clock, etc. with December at 12 o’clock.
- Set the date of the current month by turning the crown in either direction until the correct date is displayed in the window.
- Return the bezel to position 0 by turning it clockwise as far as it will go.
- Push in and screw down the crown.
To Set The Local Time
- Setting the reference time (hour on the 24-hour disc and minutes shown by the center minute hand) also moves the hour hand that displays the local time. For this reason, the reference time must be set before setting the local time.
- Unscrew the winding crown and then pull it out to the first notch.
- Rotate the bezel to position 2.
- Set the local time (displayed by the jumping hour hand) by turning the crown in either direction. The 24-hour disc and the minute hand will not move. Only the hour hand moves in one-hour increments. The date changes when the hour hand passes midnight, only in the clockwise direction.
- Return the bezel to position 0 by turning it clockwise as far as it will go.
- Push in and screw down the crown.
To Set The Reference Time
- Unscrew the winding crown and then pull it out to the first notch.
- Rotate the bezel to position 3 by turning it counter-clockwise as far as it will go. The seconds hand will stop, allowing you to set the time to the precise second.
- Set the hour on the 24-hour disc and the minutes shown by the center minute hand by turning the crown in either direction.
- Return the bezel to position 0 by turning it clockwise as far as it will go.
- Push in and screw down the crown.
Lastly, always remember to always screw the winding crown back into the case after any adjustments to prevent water damage to the movement of your Rolex Sky-Dweller!
The Design of the Rolex Sky-Dweller
Before we examine how to use the Rolex Sky-Dweller, let’s quickly run through the design. The Sky-Dweller sports a generous 42mm Oyster case, which is actually quite large for a Rolex watch. On that 42mm case sits the ubiquitous Rolex fluted bezel. However, on this particular model, the bezel is not just for decorative purposes but rather, this Rolex-exclusive style of bezel is integral to the functionality of the watch. But more on that later.
Initially, the Sky-Dweller was only available in three shades of gold, making it one of the most expensive Rolex watches to own. However, in 2017, Rolex unveiled more accessible models in two-tone steel and yellow gold, in addition to steel and white gold.
Reading the Rolex Sky-Dweller
The dial of the Sky-Dweller features plenty of information arranged in a way that is vastly different to other Rolex watches. First, there are the center hour, minute, and seconds hands to indicate the local time. Then, there’s the off-centered 24-hour disc that indicates the second time zone. Then, there’s the date window at 3 o’clock. And finally, there’s also a month indicator displayed via apertures adjacent to the 12-hour markers. For instance, if it’s October, the box next to the 10 o’clock index will show a different color—often red—than the other boxes.
It’s important to note that the Sky-Dweller is an annual calendar. As a result, as long as the Sky-Dweller keeps running, the watch will continue to automatically keep the correct time, month, and date, without the need for manual adjusting except for once a year on March 1st. The fact that a mechanical watch can differentiate between 30 or 31 days in a month is a technical achievement that shouldn’t be taken for granted!
User manual
View the manual for the Rolex Sky‑Dweller here, for free. This manual comes under the category watches and has been rated by 1 people with an average of a 8.4. This manual is available in the following languages: English. Do you have a question about the Rolex Sky‑Dweller or do you need help?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t find the answer to your question in the manual? You may find the answer to your question in the FAQs about the Rolex Sky‑Dweller below.
A battery in my watch has started to corrode. Is the device still safe to use?
The product can still be used safely after proper cleaning. Remove the battery with gloves and clean the battery compartment with a toothbrush and vinegar. After drying, new batteries can be inserted into the device.
Is the manual of the Rolex Sky‑Dweller available in English?
Yes, the manual of the Rolex Sky‑Dweller is available in English .
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Introduction
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller Watch 326938SRO is a sophisticated timepiece designed for the modern traveler. Featuring a dual time zone display and an innovative annual calendar, it seamlessly combines functionality with elegance. The watch is crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and style. Priced at $129.52, it represents a perfect blend of luxury and practicality.
WEARING THE WATCH FOR THE FIRST TIME
Before being worn for the first time, or if it has stopped, a Rolex watch must be wound manually in order to function correctly and precisely.
To wind the watch manually, unscrew the winding crown completely, then turn it several times clockwise. (Turning in the other direction has no effect.) A minimum of 25 turns is required for adequate partial winding. The watch will then be wound automatically as long as it is worn on the wrist. Carefully screw the crown back down against the case to ensure waterproofness.
The green seal accompanying your Rolex watch is a symbol of its status as a Superlative Chronometer. This exclusive designation attests that it has successfully undergone a series of specific final controls by Rolex in its own laboratories in addition to the official COSC certification of its movement. This unique testing of its chronometric precision, waterproofness, self-winding and reliability pushes back the boundaries of performance and makes Rolex a benchmark for excellence in mechanical watches. For further information, please visit https://rolex.com
Detailed Specifications
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller Watch 326938SRO is available in 18k white, yellow, or Everose gold, with a choice of a polished finish or a fluted bezel. The watch case measures 42mm in diameter and is waterproof up to 100 meters. The watch features a screw-down crown, a sapphire crystal glass, and a solid case back. The dial is available in various colors, including champagne, white, or black, with Roman or Arabic numerals. The watch is equipped with the Rolex Caliber 9001 movement, which has a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.
THE HEART OF THE SKY-DWELLER MODEL
DUAL TIME ZONE AND 24-HOUR DISPLAY
The Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller allows the traveller to read the time in two different time zones simultaneously.
When travelling, the wearer can read the reference time in 24-hour format via a rotating off-centre disc. A fixed red triangle on the dial points to the time.
Local time is indicated by the conventional centre hour, minute and seconds hands. It can be set quickly and easily by jumps of the hour hand. Setting the hour hand does not affect the minute or seconds hands or the reference time.
The instantaneous date change is linked to local time. Thus, the date window always displays the current date in the wearer’s local time zone.
SAROS ANNUAL CALENDAR
- The Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller has an extremely reliable annual calendar thanks to an ingenious mechanism named Saros, patented by Rolex, and whose unique design was inspired directly by the astronomical phenomenon of the same name.
- This annual calendar automatically differentiates between 30-day and 31-day months. It displays the correct date throughout the year and requires only one adjustment a year – on 1st March, February having only 28 or 29 days.
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The current month is indicated in red in one of the 12 windows around the circumference of the dial: January at 1 o’clock, February at 2 o’clock, and so on.
RIN COMMAND SYSTEM
The Ring Command system is a system of interaction between the case and movement developed and patented by Rolex for easy selection and adjustment of particular functions via a rotatable bezel and the winding crown. On the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller, it allows easy selection of the function to be set: date, month, local time or reference time.
Description
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller Watch 326938SRO is a masterpiece of watchmaking that combines functionality and style. The watch’s dual-time zone display is ideal for frequent travelers, allowing them to keep track of time in two different time zones. The annual calendar, which automatically adjusts for months with 30 or 31 days, is a convenient feature that eliminates the need for manual adjustments. The Ring Command Bezel is a unique invention that allows the wearer to set the time, date, and dual-time zone display with a simple turn of the bezel.
USING YOUR WATCH
OVERVIEW
- Hour hand
- Minute hand
- Seconds hand
- The reference time display on 24-hour disc
- Date window
- Month display in one of 12 windows (January at 1 o’clock, February at 2 o’clock, etc.)
- Bidirectional rotatable bezel
- Twinlock winding crown with double waterproofness system
SETTING THE WATCH
Screwed-down position (crown in position 0)
The crown is completely screwed down against the case. When the crown is in this position, the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet).
Manual winding (crown in position 1)
The crown is unscrewed. To wind the watch manually, turn the crown clockwise; turning in the other direction has no effect. When setting the watch for the first time or after the watch has stopped, complete a minimum of 25 turns for partial winding.
After every use, carefully screw the crown back down against the case to guarantee the waterproofness. Return the crown to position 1 and apply light pressure on it while screwing it down clockwise against the case. The crown should never be unscrewed underwater.
COMPLETE SETTING OF THE WATCH IS CARRIED OUT BY FOLLOWING THE STEPS IN THE ORDER GIVEN
- Setting the reference time (bezel in position III, crown in position 2)
To set the reference time, follow the steps in the order given:- Unscrew the crown and then pull it out to the first notch.
- Put the bezel in position III by turning it counterclockwise as far as it will go. The seconds hand is stopped, allowing you to set the time to the precise second.
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Set the hour on the 24-hour disc and the minutes shown by the centre minute hand by turning the crown in either direction.
Setting the reference time (hour on the 24-hour disc and minutes shown by the centre minute hand) also moves the hour hand (local time). For this reason, the reference time must be set before setting the local time.
After every use, carefully screw the crown back down against the case to guarantee the waterproofness. Return the crown to position 1 and apply light pressure on it while screwing it down clockwise against the case. The crown should never be unscrewed underwater.
- Setting the local time (bezel in position II, crown in position 2)
To set the local time, follow the steps in the order given:- Put the bezel in position II.
- Set the local time (displayed by the hour hand) by turning the crown in either direction. The 24-hour disc and the minute hand do not move. Only the hour hand moves in increments of one hour. The date changes when the hour hand reaches midnight, only in the clockwise direction.
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To avoid confusion between a.m. and p.m. hours, move the hour hand to 12 o’clock. If the date changes, it is midnight.
After every use, carefully screw the crown back down against the case to guarantee the waterproofness. Return the crown to position 1 and apply light pressure on it while screwing it down clockwise against the case. The crown should never be unscrewed underwater.
- Setting the month and the date (bezel in position I, crown in position 2)
To set the month and the date, follow the steps in the order given:- Put the bezel in position I.
- Set the month by turning the crown in either direction. Cycle through the dates and months until you reach the current month, which is indicated by a contrasting colour in one of the 12 windows around the circumference of the dial: January at 1 o’clock, February at 2 o’clock, etc. until December at 12 o’clock.
- Set the date of the current month by turning the crown in either direction until you reach the correct date. The annual calendar automatically differentiates between 30-day and 31- day months. It requires only one adjustment a year – on 1 March, February having only 28 or 29 days.
- Return the bezel to the neutral position by turning it clockwise as far as it will go.
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Push in and screw down the crown.
After every use, carefully screw the crown back down against the case to guarantee the waterproofness. Return the crown to position 1 and apply light pressure on it while screwing it down clockwise against the case. The crown should never be unscrewed underwater.
SETTING THE LOCAL TIME OR DATE ONLY
To change only the local time or the date, follow the steps in the order given:
- Unscrew the crown and pull it out to the first notch.
- Go to step 2 or to step 3 depending on the function to be set.
- Push in and screw down the crown.
Additional information
After setting, we recommend that you return the bezel to the neutral position to easily locate positions I, II and III the next time you set the watch.
After every use, carefully screw the crown back down against the case to guarantee the waterproofness. Return the crown to position 1 and apply light pressure on it while screwing it down clockwise against the case. The crown should never be unscrewed underwater.
EasyLink COMFORT EXTENSION LINK
To ensure optimal comfort when wearing your watch, Rolex created the Easylink comfort extension link, which is available on some versions. Its exclusive design comprises a link that is pulled out or folded back on itself to adjust the length of the bracelet by approximately 5 mm, without the need for tools.
Adjusting from the short position to the long position
Adjusting from the long position to the short position
ROLEX GLIDELOCK FINE-ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM
On the Oysterflex bracelet, the Rolex Glidelock fine-adjustment system enables the bracelet length to be adjusted in approximately 2.5 mm increments up to around 15 mm.
Adjustment of the bracelet
- Open the clasp
- Pull on the bracelet to release it from the notch in the rack
- Adjust the position of the bracelet to the desired length
- Lock down the bracelet
Setup Guide
To set up the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller Watch 326938SRO, follow these steps:
- Unscrew the crown and pull it out to the first position.
- Turn the crown to set the date.
- Pull the crown out to the second position.
- Turn the crown to set the local time.
- Press the crown to reset the dual-time zone display to the current time in your home time zone.
- Screw the crown back in to ensure waterproofness.
ROLEX SERVICE
CARING FOR YOUR ROLEX
You can help preserve its lustre by cleaning it occasionally with a microfibre cloth. You can also wash the case and bracelet from time to time using soapy water and a soft brush. After wearing your watch in the sea, it is important to rinse it with fresh water to remove any salt and sand deposits.
Before cleaning your watch, always ensure that the crown is screwed down properly against the case to guarantee waterproofness.
AFTER-SALES SERVICE
- Rolex watch servicing ensures that your timepiece will continue to perform optimally and meet Rolex’s stringent requirements in terms of precision, reliability and waterproofness throughout its life.
- The timekeeping accuracy of your watch is largely dependent on high-performance lubricants specially developed by Rolex to minimize friction and prevent wear of components. To guarantee continued accuracy and waterproofness, Rolex recommends that you periodically return your watch to an Official Rolex Retailer or Service Centre for professional servicing, which will always be carried out by a Rolex-approved watchmaker.
- During a complete service, the watch is dismantled and all of its components the case, bracelet and movement – are closely examined.
- The movement is entirely disassembled and all the parts are carefully inspected. Those that no longer meet Rolex requirements are systematically replaced by new components. The movement is lubricated on reassembly. The case and bracelet are re-polished or satin-finished according to their original finish, restoring their shine and lustre while removing any marks or scratches.
- At the end of the process, your Rolex watch undergoes a series of tests to verify its functions, waterproofness and power reserve, as well as the precision of its movement.
- After a complete Rolex service, your watch is covered by a service guarantee.
WORLDWIDE SERVICE NETWORK
The network of Official Rolex Retailers and Service Centres covers more than 100 countries around the world and draws on the expertise of highly skilled watchmakers, carefully selected and trained by Rolex. Official Rolex Retailers can advise you on all the technical aspects of your watch’s functions. Whether your bracelet needs sizing or it is time for a complete service, highly qualified Rolex watchmakers are on hand worldwide to meet all of your service needs.
For a list of Official Rolex Retailers and Service Centres, please visit https://rolex.com
A privileged place to learn more about the functions of your Rolex watch and about the quality, know-how and fundamental values of the brand. Welcome to the world of Rolex.
Troubleshooting
If the watch is not keeping accurate time, try resetting the watch’s movement by following these steps:
- Unscrew the crown and pull it out to the first position.
- Turn the crown to set the date.
- Pull the crown out to the second position.
- Turn the crown to set the time.
- Press the crown to reset the dual-time zone display to the current time in your home time zone.
- Screw the crown back in to ensure waterproofness. If the watch is still not keeping accurate time, it may need to be serviced by a Rolex-authorized service center.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Sophisticated dual-time zone display
- Annual calendar
- Patented Ring Command Bezel
- Available in 18k white, yellow, or Everose gold
- Waterproof up to 100 meters
Cons
- Expensive
- Large case size may not be suitable for small wrists
- May require frequent servicing due to the complexity of the movement
Programmable Thermostat RET95E
Rolex Sky-Dweller is a one-of-a-kind wristwatch equipped with a date display, an annual calendar, and two time zones. But since it comes with two times, it often becomes very confusing for wearers to set the time on it. This is the reason why you need a guide to get through this problem and wear this iconic watch on your wrist without any worry.
Rolex Sky-Dweller – One Watch for Every Occasion
Rolex Sky-Dweller was launched in 2012 and has been a popular wristwatch since then. Coming with two time zones, an impeccable design, an annual calendar complication, and so much more, this timepiece is just perfect for any wrist. It’s the ultimate traveler’s wristwatch, thanks to the practicality it has to offer. The classic fluted bezel gives this watch an unmatchable visual presence, which makes it a powerful accessory on the hand.
Even though it’s a great watch for travelers, it does not mean others can’t wear it regularly. The Oysterflex rubber bracelet is another addition to add more comfort to the watch. Additionally, you can get it in different material options, including steel, yellow gold, rose gold and white gold. This timepiece is also water-resistant at 100 meters, which makes it good enough for regular swimmers, too.
Up until now, Datejust was the only watch with a green dial, but Rolex Sky-Dweller now has a mint-green dial, giving the watch a more refined and younger look. Simply visit our store and get your hands on this timeless, iconic and masterpiece of a watch now.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setup Rolex Sky-Dweller
Setting time on Rolex Sky-Dweller is a bit different than Rolex GMT Master-II as it uses The Ring Command Bezel, which can be rotated to four positions from 0-4. The 0 position means the bezel all the way to the right, while, 3 means bezel is turned to the left.
Here’s what each position means:
- Position 0: You can’t change the date, month, 24-hour GMT disc, or time when the bezel is in this position.
- Position 1: This position is used for setting the date and month.
- Position 2: This position is used for setting the local time.
- Position 3: This position is used for setting the reference time.
Setting the Month and Date
Follow these steps to set the month and date:
- Unscrew the crown and bring it completely out.
- Switch the bezel to position 1 on the bezel by rotating it once counterclockwise.
- Start rotating the crown in either direction to change the date and month. The month is indicated using the red marker on top of the hour markers.
- Bring the bezel back to position 0.
- Push and screw down the winding crown.
Setting the Reference Time
Follow these steps to set the reference time:
- Pull out the winding crown completely by unscrewing it.
- Rotate the bezel to position 3. This will stop the second hand, so you can set the precise time.
- Now, set the hour on the 24-hour disc and the minutes by turning the crown.
- Bring the bezel back to position 0.
- Screw down the crown by pushing it in.
Setting the Local Time
Follow these steps to set the local time:
- First, you need to set up the reference time on the watch. One that is done, you can go ahead to the next step here.
- Unscrew the winding crown again and pull it out completely.
- Rotate the bezel to position 2.
- Set the local time by rotating the bezel in any direction. The hour hand will start moving at this point in one-hour increment, while, the 24-hour disc and minute hand would stop moving.
- Once you have set it, rotate the bezel to position 0 again and push and screw down the crown.
Make sure to always screw the winding back to the case after you have made any adjustments to prevent your watch from water damage.
Is Rolex Sky-Dweller a Good Investment?
Rolex Sky-Dweller is a sought-after piece among watch lovers. This watch was a breakthrough in the industry and has been everyone’s favorite since it was launched. Not just the design, this luxury timepiece consists of many complications, including the ever-so-famous annual calendar.
You are able to see the day, date, time, and month in one place, which is a wonder in itself since the bezel and the display are not compromised at all. Rolex is one of the few brands that can achieve such precision without overcrowding the dial.
Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide to Set 3 Time Zones on a Rolex GMT Master II
Now let’s come to the main question—Is Rolex Sky-Dweller worth the investment? Before we answer this question, you must know one thing; it’s Rolex. And Rolex watch prices in Dubai have been increasing over the past years. The brand is renowned worldwide and holds a great value among consumers. Aside from that, Rolex Sky-Dweller is worth every single penny as it has everything that a wearer looks for, thus, keeping the hype alive for this iconic watch. So, if you’re trying to look into Rolexes, then it has to be this one.
Get a Rolex Sky-Dweller in Your Collection Today
Rolex Sky-Dweller is the best timepiece that you can add to your collection. It’s on every watch collector’s wishlist, so investing in it would turn out to be a great investment for you. But sometimes operating it can be a hassle, which is why you need proper guidance to set up your Rolex Sky-Dweller. Other than that, Rolex watches tends to hold their value for a long time and with proper care, you can even pass them down from one generation to another. Don’t waste any time and get your hands on this fine wristwatch from WatchMaestro!
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