Let’s face it, when we think of Rolex,  iconic sports watches from the Oyster line like the Submariner and Daytona  are what come to mind. What we certainly don’t think of are the brand’s more classical “dress watches” from the Cellini line. And yet, the Cellini collection represents the second half of Rolex’s offerings, though commercially they were never a hit. I think that’s about to change.

Earlier this year at Baselworld, Rolex introduced the world to its completely revamped Cellini line. Consisting of three different models, the Cell. The one that really caught my eye was the Cellini Dual Time, Rolex’s first-ever watch to feature a second timezone sub-dial (not to be confused with the GMT complication). Elegant yet modern, the Cellini Dual Time is a much needed breath of fresh air in the Cellini lines that boasts not only contemporary yet timeless aesthetics, but also an original take on a useful complication.

The round case in either “Everose” or white gold measures 39mm and is entirely polished, as a dress watch should be. The bezel is done in two parts with a fluted edge and polished bezel, a little detail that is inherently Rolex, recalling not only the fluted bezels on the Datejust and DayDate models but also certain vintage references from as far back as the 1920s.

The dial is done in a strikibf radial sunburst guilloché pattern, with very pronounced grooves that can appear as stripes under direct lighting. The lance hands are faceted and polished, perfectly complimenting the applied hour markers.

What truly sets the Rolex Cellini Dual Time apart from other Rolexes and dual time watches in general is the way the second timezone is executed. Featuring as an off-centered hours and minutes dial at 6 o’clock, the second time zone (or home time if you’re traveling) features one of the most ingenious day & night indicators I’ve seen on any watch. Replacing the 9 o’clock marker is a window displaying a sun from 6 AM to 6 PM that switches to a moon from 6 PM to 6 AM. I just love how it keeps the dial clutter-free, with the symbols adding a whimsical and charming touch to the watch.

On the wrist, the proportions feel just right. Thanks to its rounded edges and proportionately thick profile, the Cellini Dual Time wears more like a 41mm watch, and shouldn’t just be limited to suits and ties.

The Rolex Cellini Dual Time comes with a price tag of 18’500 CHF (Swiss Francs), and is now available at authorized Rolex retailers. The question I ask myself is, are the Cellini pieces like the Dual Time destined to outdo their lacklustre predecessors, or will Rolex remain strictly a sports watch manufacturer in our collective conscious? only time will tell.

More information on http://www.rolex.com/watches/cellini.html