In the 1960s, Rolex began to experiment with more ostentatious versions of their watches, in order to attract the Middle Eastern and Asian market. This gave way for the use of precious stones on Rolex dials – such as Onyx, Bloodstone, Opal, and Jasper. Rolex really pushed the envelope with their enamel dials, labeled Lacquered Stella in Rolex literature. Made from several layers of enamel, these dials came in a riot of colors that one would not expect from Rolex – from the more common oxblood, green and pastel pink, to the rarer bright blue and purple. Stella models did not succeed commercially during their time; and sat ignored in display cases. Rolex reportedly destroyed many of these watches because they were unsellable, and this makes them so rare today. |