If you’re looking to start your Rolex collection, then the Oyster Perpetual range is a great place to begin. Considered Rolex’s entry-level watch, the Oyster Perpetual watch has all the hallmarks of a Rolex watch packaged into a straightforward and understated watch. Crafted in stainless steel, featuring an easy-to-read face, and powered by an automatic movement, the Oyster Perpetual is the ideal starter Rolex watch. However, there are some models to choose from. So today, we’re comparing the Oyster Perpetual 114300 vs. Oyster Perpetual 116000 to highlight the similarities and differences so you can decide which one is right for you.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116600
Released at Baselworld 2014, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116600 signaled a new direction for the brand’s most affordable collection. Sporting a classically sized 36mm Oyster case and a minimal time-only dial, the Oyster Perpetual ref. 116600 is suitable for both men and women. Finishing off the look of the stainless steel Oyster Perpetual is the smooth domed bezel and comfortable Oyster bracelet.
Rolex did take a fresh and youthful approach to their starter everyday model by offering a range of dial colors with the OP ref. 116600—from neutral black, gray, and white to vibrant blue, red grape, and yellow. There’s also an Explorer-dial option within the Oyster Perpetual 116600, displaying the familiar 3/6/9 numerals alongside the baton markers.
Powering the Rolex Oyster Perpetual ref. 116600 is the Cal. 3130 automatic movement with about 48 hours of power reserve.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 114300
Following the launch of the OP 114300, Rolex extended the Oyster Perpetual range in 2015 with the Oyster Perpetual 114300. This time—and for the first time in the collection’s history—the new Oyster Perpetual includes a larger 39mm Oyster case. Again, this is ideal for either a man’s or woman’s wrist.
Similar to its smaller 36mm counterpart, the Oyster Perpetual 39 also offers a range of dial colors including dark rhodium, blue, red grape, and just as of this year, black and white too. It’s worth pointing out that some dial options also include little colorful running around the periphery of the dial. For instance, the dark rhodium dial has turquoise accents, the red grape has red accents, and the blue dial has lime green accents.
Identical to all other modern Oyster Perpetual watches, the OP 39 also has a smooth domed bezel and steel Oyster bracelet. However, unlike the smaller versions, the larger Oyster Perpetual ref. 114300 runs on Cal. 3132. This particular Rolex automatic movement includes aParachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers to better withstand daily knocks. It also boasts a -2/+2 accuracy rating and a power reserve of 48 hours.
Oyster Perpetual 36 or Oyster Perpetual 39?
In terms of styling, the Oyster Perpetual 114300 and the Oyster Perpetual 116000 are very similar except that the former has a larger 39mm case while the latter has a smaller 36mm case. Price differences—particularly in the pre-owned market—are negligible between the two models.
So it’s simply a matter of what size would fit your wrist better if you were deciding between the Oyster Perpetual 36 and the Oyster Perpetual 39 as your starter Rolex watch.
