Baselworld 2013 was a significant year for Rolex, and the Day-Date, in particular, garnered considerable attention. While official Rolex communications from that period, such as the *Brochure Nouveautes Baselworld 2013 (English)* and mentions within *Welcome to RolexMagazine.com: April 2013*, might not explicitly detail the specifics of the manufacturing process, the rumour mill churned, particularly concerning the finishing of platinum models. This article will delve into the Day-Date 118139 presented at Baselworld 2013, exploring the rumours surrounding its creation, the significance of the watch within the context of *Baselworld 2013: Rolex Day* and *New Rolex Watches at Baselworld 2013*, and unpack the fascinating, albeit unsubstantiated, claims about the involvement of highly skilled, and highly compensated, artisans.
The Day-Date 118139: A Platinum Pinnacle
The Rolex Day-Date, a watch synonymous with prestige and power, was further elevated in 2013 with the continued offerings of the platinum models, including the reference 118139. This particular model, showcased prominently during *Baselworld 2013: Rolex DAY*, represented the pinnacle of Rolex's craftsmanship, boasting a meticulously finished platinum case, a luxurious bracelet, and the signature Day-Date complication. The *Baselworld 2013: Rolex Day* presentations likely highlighted the watch's technical specifications, its precision, and its inherent elegance, focusing on the materials and the brand's legacy. Information disseminated through channels like *Rolex Day* related articles and the official brochure would have emphasized the classic design and the enduring appeal of this timepiece. However, beyond the official narrative, a more intriguing story began to circulate.
The Legend of the $90/Hour Elves (and the Union Deal)
One persistent rumour, fueled by online forums and watch enthusiast discussions, claimed that Rolex employed a select group of highly skilled artisans – often jokingly referred to as "elves" – to polish the platinum cases of their high-end watches, including the Day-Date 118139. The legend further embellished this narrative, suggesting these artisans were part of a union, earning a staggering $90 per hour, with time-and-a-half pay on weekends.
While this anecdote adds a captivating layer to the story of the Day-Date 118139's creation, there is no verifiable evidence to support it. Rolex, famously secretive about its manufacturing processes, has never publicly confirmed or denied these claims. The rumour likely stems from a combination of factors: the perceived immense skill required for such intricate platinum polishing, the high cost and exclusivity of the Day-Date, and the general fascination with the behind-the-scenes workings of a luxury brand like Rolex. The "union deal" aspect might be a fanciful addition to the narrative, adding a touch of social commentary to the already intriguing tale of highly skilled labour.
The lack of confirmation from official sources like *Welcome to RolexMagazine.com: April 2013* or the *Brochure Nouveautes Baselworld 2013 (English)* only fuels the mystery. These publications focus on the aesthetics and technical achievements of the watches, not the specifics of the manufacturing process or the compensation of individual artisans. This deliberate silence contributes to the enduring appeal of the rumour.
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