Rolex Launches Perpetual Padellone: A Vintage-Inspired Annual Calendar with New Calibre 7190

Key points

• Rolex launched the Perpetual Padellone, an annual calendar with moonphase, inspired by the 1950s Reference 8171 'Padellone'.
• The watch features the new Calibre 7190, which includes a Dynapulse escapement and a patented 'Haplos' annual calendar system.
• The annual calendar requires only one manual adjustment per year, unlike a complete calendar which needs monthly adjustments.
• The watch is available in Everose gold and platinum, with prices ranging from $59,000 to $72,800.
• The launch coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Rolex Oyster case.

Background

Rolex's Perpetual collection was launched in 2023, replacing the discontinued Cellini line. The brand has a long history with calendar complications, including the 1945 Datejust, 1947 Dato-Compax chronographs, and the 1950s Reference 8171 'Padellone'. The 2025 Land-Dweller introduced the Dynapulse escapement, which is now integrated into the Perpetual Padellone's Calibre 7190.

How outlets are covering it

Gear Patrol emphasizes the technical innovation of the Calibre 7190 and the Dynapulse escapement, highlighting it as Rolex's most advanced movement yet. Hodinkee focuses on the historical significance of the 'Padellone' name and the watch's connection to the 1950s Reference 8171, noting the launch in Milan. WatchTime details the technical aspects of the Haplos system and Rolex's updated Superlative Chronometer certification. Revolution Watch contextualizes the launch within Rolex's broader strategy to enter the complication category after a 70-year absence, highlighting the brand's commercial dominance and the significance of the Oyster centenary.

Why it matters

The Perpetual Padellone marks a significant shift for Rolex, as it is the first major complication release outside of Watches and Wonders and the first annual calendar with a moonphase in the brand's history. The launch signals Rolex's intent to expand into the complication category, a segment it has largely avoided since 1953. The technical innovations, including the Dynapulse escapement and Haplos system, demonstrate Rolex's continued focus on in-house movement development and efficiency.

What to watch

Rolex has not announced further models in the Perpetual collection, but the success of the Padellone may lead to additional complications or variations. The brand's updated Superlative Chronometer certification, which includes resistance to magnetism, reliability, and sustainability, may be applied to other models in the future. The availability of the Perpetual Padellone is expected to be limited, similar to the 1908 launch.