Introduction to the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39 (ref. 114300) is a watch that defies the modern trend of bigger and louder. It was introduced at Baselworld 2015, replacing the 36mm OP as the largest in the line. For many, it was the perfect size – large enough to be contemporary, yet still elegant. The watch was available with a variety of dials, including a striking blue, a red grape (a unique purple), a grey, a white, and a black. The case is made of 904L stainless steel, Rolex's proprietary alloy, which offers superior corrosion resistance and a brighter finish.
The OP 39 was discontinued in 2020, replaced by the 41mm reference 124300. This has only increased its appeal among collectors who prefer the more balanced proportions. The 114300 is often seen as the thinking person's Rolex – it's not about status, but about the joy of wearing a well-made instrument.
Movement: Caliber 3132
At the heart of the 114300 beats the Caliber 3132, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely manufactured by Rolex. It's based on the venerable 3130, but upgraded with a Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers, both of which enhance resistance to shocks and magnetic fields. The movement operates at 4 Hz (28,800 vph) and offers a power reserve of 48 hours, which is adequate for daily wear. It's a certified chronometer, with an average accuracy of -2/+2 seconds per day, though many owners report even better performance.
The movement is hidden behind a solid caseback, as is typical for Oyster Perpetual models. This underscores the watch's utilitarian philosophy – it's designed to be worn, not admired through a glass display. The rotor is gold, but you'll never see it. The finishing is what you'd expect from Rolex: clean, functional, and robust.
Case and Bracelet
The 39mm case is a masterclass in proportion. The lugs are tapered, and the smooth bezel gives it a dressy feel. The case is brushed on the sides and polished on the lugs, creating a subtle contrast. The crown is the classic Twinlock, offering 100m water resistance – sufficient for swimming but not for diving. The Oyster bracelet is solid and comfortable, with flat links and a folding Oysterclasp. One minor gripe is the lack of Easylink, which would allow for quick micro-adjustments, but the bracelet does have a few half-links for sizing.
On the wrist, the watch sits low and hugs the wrist. The weight is balanced, and the case diameter of 39mm is ideal for most wrist sizes. It slides under a shirt cuff effortlessly, making it a perfect dress watch, yet it's rugged enough for a weekend adventure.
Dial and Lume
The dial is where the 114300 shines. The sunburst finishes are mesmerizing – the blue dial changes from deep navy to electric azure depending on the light. The red grape is a unique offering that was discontinued early, making it a collector's item. The applied markers are simple batons, with a Rolex crown at 12 o'clock. The hands are the classic Mercedes style, though on the OP they are more streamlined. The lume is Chromalight, which emits a blue glow that lasts for hours.
There is no date window, which keeps the dial perfectly symmetrical. This is a pure time-only watch, a rarity in today's market. For many, this simplicity is the ultimate luxury.
Wearing Experience
I've worn the 114300 for months, and it's become my go-to for almost everything. The 39mm case size is perfect – it doesn't dominate the wrist, but it's not lost either. The bracelet is comfortable, and the clasp, while simple, is secure. I've worn it to business meetings, to the beach, and even on a hiking trip. It never feels out of place. The accuracy is spot-on; I set it once and forgot about it. Over a week, it gained about 3 seconds, which is well within spec.
The only downside is that it's so understated that it might not get noticed. If you're looking for a conversation starter, this isn't it. But if you want a watch that speaks to your own taste, not to others', this is perfect.
Investment Value
The 114300 was originally priced at around $5,500. On the secondary market, prices have remained stable, with good condition examples selling between $4,500 and $6,500. It's not a hype piece, so you won't see the wild appreciation of a steel Daytona, but it also won't depreciate much. For a young collector, it's a solid entry into Rolex ownership that you can enjoy daily without worrying about scratching it. The discontinued status may slowly push prices up, especially for the rarer dials like the red grape.
In the long term, the 114300 is likely to be considered a modern classic. Its balanced design and excellent movement make it a worthy addition to any collection.
Conclusion
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39 (114300) is a watch that gets everything right. It's not flashy, but it's perfect. The movement is reliable, the case is beautifully proportioned, and the dial options are stunning. If you're a young collector looking for a Rolex that you can wear every day, without the worry of theft or depreciation, the 114300 is the one. It's a watch that will serve you for decades, and it's a testament to the idea that less is more.
