Rolex Sky-Dweller: Two Time Zones and an Annual Calendar

The Rolex Sky-Dweller combines a second time zone with an annual calendar. The archived example shown here has a yellow gold case, champagne colored dial and brown leather strap. Its fluted bezel and off center display make it recognizable even before you look at the calendar.

Reading the two time zones

The main hands show local time. The off center 24 hour disc shows reference time, read against the fixed triangle above it. Because that disc covers a full day, it distinguishes morning from evening in the reference time zone. The watch does not detect your location or change time zones by itself; the wearer makes the adjustment.

How the annual calendar works

Rolex calls the calendar Saros. It distinguishes 30 day and 31 day months and needs correction at the end of February if it has kept running. Twelve small windows around the dial indicate the month, with January at 1 o’clock, February at 2 and so on. See Rolex’s Sky-Dweller explanation for the functions.

Choosing a preowned example

The Ring Command bezel works with the crown to select settings. Ask for a demonstration using the instructions for the exact reference, since movement specifications differ between generations. Check the strap condition, clasp, service history and included documents before deciding.

The leather strap and yellow gold appearance in these photographs describe this archived example, not every Sky-Dweller. Contact our Boca Raton team for current watches and reference specific details.