Rolex Space Dweller

[pomelowatches]

Hi folks,

Hope you're well. I recently posted a small article on my blog about the Rolex Explorer Space Dweller (here, if anyone cares to read).



I know this has been the subject of a number of different threads before on here, but was just interested in trying to get to the bottom of a few "facts" that have been floating around on the web but which I can't seem to substantiate.

In particular, the one that the Space Dweller a) was released in Japan only and b) after a visit by astronauts from NASA's Project Mercury to Japan.

If anyone can offer any insight into these facts - or more insight into the origins of the Space Dweller - I'd be very grateful!

Thanks
Daniel

[schoolboy]

I didn’t know such a watch existed.

Thanks for sharing!

[ltmgeller]

[locutus49]

Nice. Very nice. That is one vintage watch I would love to own.

[Jackie Daytona]

Saw something about this on Rolexmagazine.com. I cant remember completely, but I think it may have been a one off sort of thing. Nothing that was ever mass produced. Ill have to find the article again.

[Rawb15]

That is a beautiful watch.... I thought you were joking like Rolex were releasing a futuristic digital piece..

[Wooster]

This looks like an Explorer with “Space Dweller” on the dial. It’s obviously unique , but otherwise am I missing something ?

[pomelowatches]

Haha, no - not a digital release! There's a few threads on here from Padi and others discussing this. I was hoping to see if I could get any more information on this!

If anyone has any further information on this model (or any way to substantiate) please do let me know.

I did dig up this old thread from TZ from 2008 from Paul Boutros (which was also linked from here) with the Space Dweller. And it says it came with Rolex service papers, so - yes - this is definitely a real Rolex: https://forums.timezone.com/index.ph...80#msg_3578097

[Macnavara]

When ever ive seen photos of this watch it always looks like the words ‘space dweller’ have been added later as the colour and font is different to the rest of the text....surely they would age the same if applied at same time....irrespective its a cool looking watch for sure.

[CalSRQ1]

Originally Posted by Macnavara

When ever ive seen photos of this watch it always looks like the words ‘space dweller’ have been added later as the colour and font is different to the rest of the text....surely they would age the same if applied at same time....irrespective its a cool looking watch for sure.

my impression was that Rolex did this as a promo/limited only...so kind I envisioned they "threw together" the font etc. I actually really like the different in font/color/aging....more simple times

[Juhuatai]

I think the consensus is very very limited release in japan as that's where all models have originally been from.

[pomelowatches]

Thanks guys, interesting to hear. I know there have been a few questions about the provenance of the piece in the past, but I believe it to be a legitimate piece. In the link that I posted before, Paul Boutros mentions that the Space Dweller during the March 2008 Antiquorum auction came with "recent Rolex service papers" which would - at the very least - indicate that this is a Rolex recognised piece.

I was more curious to learn about the history behind its release and if it was truly due to Project Mercury and the reason for a limited Japanese market testing.

[JP.]

Nice read. Thanks. I keep blog myself (check my signature).

I found that Yacht-Master prototype article fascinating too.

[pomelowatches]

Thanks, will check your blog now!

[Dr.Smellody]

True unicorn!

[waspy1]

Originally Posted by Wooster

This looks like an Explorer with “Space Dweller” on the dial. It’s obviously unique , but otherwise am I missing something ?

That’s exactly what it is. Same ref - 1016


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