The exquisite Rolex Perpetual 1908 ref. 52508 now debuts on an innovative seven-piece link bracelet crafted entirely in 18K yellow gold. The new Settimo—seventh in Italian—bracelet brings unprecedented refinement and comfort to this elegant timepiece. Designed specifically for the Perpetual 1908 and its 39 mm 18K yellow gold case, the Settimo bracelet represents Rolex’s first metal bracelet dedicated to this collection.
The Perpetual 1908 in 18K yellow gold with Settimo bracelet reinterprets design elements from a 1931 Oyster Perpetual, featuring distinctive 3, 9, and 12 numerals and a small seconds counter at 6 o'clock. Each dial—either intense white or intense black—represents a miniature masterpiece, with meticulous attention to color, reflections, texture, and decorative elements. Every aspect of dial creation and production occurs in-house, combining traditional craftsmanship like enameling with advanced technologies such as magnetron sputtering—a sophisticated coloring technique that deposits thin films of material in a vacuum environment.
The result is a supremely elegant dial with faceted index hour markers in 18K yellow gold set against either an intense white dial with fine satin finish or a intense black option. A delicate "railway" minute track encircles the perimeter, protected by a domed sapphire crystal. The watch features a sword-shaped minute hand and a classic Breguet-style hour hand and a seconds indicator at 6 o’clock.
The Case & Settimo Bracelet
The slim 39 mm 18K yellow gold case is crowned with a distinctive divided bezel—part domed, part finely fluted—creating a subtle yet sophisticated profile. The meticulous construction of the Settimo 18K yellow gold bracelet features refined, slightly domed polished links that create a captivating play of light. The innovative case attachment system—currently patent pending—offers a discreet, compact, and robust connection. The concealed Crownclasp maintains the bracelet's harmonious design, reminiscent of jewelry-inspired bracelets found on vintage timepieces. This elegant solution preserves the 1908's heritage as a tribute to watchmaking tradition.
The Movement
Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, calibre 7140 showcases refined aesthetics with its cut-out yellow gold oscillating weight and bridges decorated with Rolex Côtes de Genève. This automatic movement with Syloxi hairspring in silicon with patented geometry and high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers provides a power reserve of 66 hours. This movement was entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex and it delivers exceptional performance in precision, power reserve, convenience, and reliability.
On the Wrist & Price
The Rolex Perpetual 1908 with Settimo Bracelet ref. 52508 was designed specifically for comfort and wearability. The "seven-piece link" construction with small, slightly domed links makes the bracelet quite flexible and allows it to conform well to different wrist shapes. This design typically prevents the bracelet from feeling rigid or bulky. At 39 mm, the case size hits a sweet spot that works well for most wrist sizes—not too large to be cumbersome, yet substantial enough to maintain presence. The slim case profile helps it slide easily under shirt cuffs and avoid catching on clothing.
Sticker Price USD 35,000. More info on Rolex here.