With all its illustrious history, the Rolex brand has certainly produced some impressive watches. Their high caliber products, assured to an exceptional level of quality, have over the years garnered a passionate cult following of watch enthusiasts.

As such, when the brand releases a new model, or a new iteration of a popular one, these fans will not only line up at accredited Rolex dealers to purchase the latest watch, but they will also give the truly special ones affectionate nicknames that become accepted monikers throughout the community.

We’ve put together this rundown of special Rolex watches that have earned new sobriquets—and, at the end, some honorable mentions for the features that make some vintage Rolex watches the star of the show.

Pepsi (Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 6542)

The Pepsi Rolex—so named for the combination of red and blue on the bezel, which is reminiscent of the soda company’s logo—was introduced in 1954 as the original GMT-Master Ref. 6542. Rolex has since made updates to the GMT-Master model (in fact, GMT-Masters are no longer produced; they have been replaced by GMT-Master IIs) but the color bezels remain and continue to be called by their community-given Rolex nicknames.

Coke (Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 16760)

The Coke watch was one of the last of the color bezels that the GMT-Master/-Master II models came in. This iteration followed the all-black design from the early 1970s and was introduced in 1989, though collectors didn’t give it the Coke moniker until much later. The connection between the nickname and the bezel is less obvious here, since the Coca-Cola logo is red and white while the bezel is red and black, but it remains a popular choice for collectors nonetheless.

Batman (Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 116710BLNR)

The latest of the GMT-Master series with a color bezel, the Batman watch is so named because the blue and black combination on its bezel is reminiscent of the comics and the animated TV shows that documented the superhero’s adventures. This model was released at Baselworld in 2013 and is outfitted with the world’s first two-tone Cerachrom bezel. It’s nearly impossible to make a single ceramic piece with two distinct hues to it, so much so that Rolex has patented the process.

Kermit (Rolex 50th Anniversary Submariner Ref. 16610LV)

The Rolex “Kermit” Submariner contains all the features that endear the iconic diving model to collectors, but it is also outfitted with a magnificent green rotating bezel and contrasting black dial. The LV in this watch’s reference stands for Lunette Verte. The Kermit watch was released in 2003 as a commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Rolex Submariner.

Hulk (Rolex Submariner Ref. 116610LV)

After the success of the Kermit watch, Rolex produced the “Hulk” Submariner, which is very similar to its predecessor save for a few minute details. The Hulk watch, which launched at Baselworld in 2010, is furnished with a signature Rolex Green Cerachrom bezel that matches the Rolex Green dial. In addition to that, Rolex updated the clasp from the Kermit watch to include the Glidelock system that allows the watch to be worn comfortably over a diving suit.

James Cameron (Rolex Deepsea Sea-Dweller D-Blue Ref. 116660)

This edition of the ever-popular Sea-Dweller was created to commemorate celebrated writer and director James Cameron’s journey to the deepest point on Earth in 2012. During the documentary he made about the trip, Deep Sea Challenge 3D, Cameron chronicled every moment of his expedition through Marianas Trench, including when he finally reached 35,787 feet below sea level, the deepest point on record. The Deepsea Sea-Dweller was presented to Cameron at the premiere of the documentary in New York City. The watch is decorated with a dial that gradates from blue to black and is inscribed with the word “DEEPSEA” in chartreuse, which was the color of Cameron’s submersible.

Paul Newman (Daytona Ref. 6239)

Paul Newman watches are a particularly special variant of the Rolex Daytona. So named because of the actor’s fondness of wearing his Daytona, the Paul Newman Daytona is distinct because of its art deco-style numerals, the square tips on the markers on its subdials, and the small “step” in the dial between the outer minute track and the center of the dial. The differences between a Paul Newman Daytona and a regular one from the same reference may be entirely superficial, but these minute changes have made this exotic-dialed watch sell for much higher than traditional Rolexes.

Exotic Dials

Fifteen years ago, a collector would have scoffed at the idea of purchasing a Rolex with a dial that has faded because of sunlight exposure over the years. Paying more for it over a pristine, traditional Rolex was out of the question. These days, however, some collectors will pay top dollar for exotic dials on Rolexes. This can mean paying $65,000 more for a Paul Newman Daytona than a Daytona from the same year, or it can mean finding a Rolex with a slightly “damaged” dial that is completely one of a kind and blowing over $100,000 on it. We’ve put together some examples of these “damages” that occur over time on vintage Rolexes that drive their price up at auction.

Crazed Dial

A crazed dial refers to the lacquer that covers the dial of a watch, which can crack over time and cause a spidery-looking pattern to form on the dial. For this reason, crazed dial watches are also sometimes called spider dial watches.

Tropical Dial

Tropical dials are so named because they appear to have faded over time by sunlight. Vintage watch collectors are often on the hunt for these types of dials; they are very rare, as most Rolex owners who have their watches for a long time will keep them in a safe, dark place where they won’t fade.

Ghost Dial

When the bezel of a vintage Rolex is faded and takes on an almost translucent quality, the watch is labeled a ghost dial watch. This fading, which authentically occurs due to prolonged exposure to elements like sunlight or saltwater, verifies that a vintage watch is original and has not had parts replaced or updated.

Star Dial

Only two Rolexes in the world were made with moonphase complications, and both of them are outfitted with star dials. Simply, these two watches have gold, star-shaped markers to determine the hour. Both of them sold at auction for over half a million dollars each. There are, however, other Rolex models that are also furnished with star dials, and these are not quite as rare, but still very valuable.

Gilt Dial

A gilt dial is one in which the markers or numerals, the hands, and sometimes the writing on the face of the watch are all made with gold leaf and “gilded”.

Explorer Dial Submariner

Rolex Submariners have a very distinct and recognizable face, so when Rolex produced a limited set of Submariners with dials similar to the Rolex Explorer, they became a collector classic. The difference? Explorer dial Submariners have numerals at the 9, 6, and 3 positions while regular Submariners have plain square markers.

The lazy days of summer are numbered: Labor Day fast approaches, the days are slowly getting shorter and colder, and your patience for your annoying coworker is quickly dwindling. It’s time for a vacation—and a shopping spree.

Before you board that plane to paradise, check out this shopping guide we’ve put together to up your accessory game while you’re off enjoying the good life. From waterproof, beach-proof watches to chic necklaces that even the fashionistas of Paris wouldn’t scoff at, we recommend the best pieces to pack during your weekend (or week-long) getaway.

For a Tropical Escape

When packing for a trip to a beach destination like Aruba or Maui, make sure that the watches and jewelry you plan to wear can hold up against the hot weather and the salty sea air without suffering damage or getting scratched. We recommend the following waterproof timepieces and durable pieces of jewelry fit for the tropics.

Men

We recommend this Tag Heuer Formula 1 timepiece because not only is it made of scratch-resistant stainless steel, but it is also waterproof to 200 meters, or about 656 feet. The extra-luminous dial will also make it easy to tell the time when you’re out at night or you’re especially deep underwater.

Women

This Michael Kors Brinkley watch is made of PVD-coated stainless steel, which makes it scratch- and sea-resistant, since the PVD coating hinders the oxidation of the zinc or nickel in the stainless steel. It is also waterproof to 165 feet and is a chronograph that can serve as a stopwatch, so feel free to time yourself using this watch while you do laps at the pool.

If you’re staying shoreside and want to show off a little bling without damaging your fine jewelry, we recommend these earrings and matching necklace from Tiffany’s. Both are made with platinum, the strongest pure metal, which is also resistant to oxidization. The stud earrings are small enough that they won’t snag on your flowy, summery outfits. and the necklace includes beautiful diamond details that can withstand any sandy gust of wind.

For a Cosmopolitan Getaway

For a vacation in cities like New York, Venice, or Tokyo, you should be equipped with versatile pieces that won’t put you at risk of being pickpocketed. We’ve compiled these classic, understated watches and pieces of jewelry that are as Instagram-worthy as they are metropolitan-ready.

Men

This gorgeous Tissot Le Locle timepiece is not just sleek-looking, but it also is contained in a scratch-resistant, stainless steel case. Its automatic movement makes life on the go in the city easy and is incredibly accurate as far as timekeeping goes. This watch has all the bells and whistles of a luxury watch without being too showy and attracting thieves.

Women

We’re very partial to this Baume & Mercier Classima watch for its classic, understated look that could pair well with any outfit. The timepiece also has a gorgeous 14K yellow gold case, which takes the piece up a notch without sacrificing protection. And, as with most luxury watches, this one is outfitted with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal face.

This 14K diamond loop necklace is just understated enough that it doesn’t look ostentatious, but it will still attract the eye. You could easily tuck the pendant into your shirt to keep it safe, which is easily a plus. In addition, while this piece is made with solid gold, the fact that it is only 14 karats—and therefore only 58.5% pure gold—means that it will  still hold up much better against scratches than higher karat pieces. Low-karat pieces of jewelry like this are perfect for withstanding the rough edges of city life, like having to squeeze through crowds on public transportation or walk down heavily populated streets.

Ready to go? Follow our guide to traveling with jewelry here. If you’re interested in purchasing insurance to keep your new pieces safe while you’re on the go, we have a guide for that too!

At TrueFacet, we have a deep appreciation for fine jewelry and watches and love helping our shoppers find that perfect item to express their style and celebrate the moments big and small in their lives. To further aid in your quest for that next special addition, we are thrilled to introduce TrueFacet Brand Boutique!

TrueFacet Brand Boutique is a new authorized partnership with independent designers to bring you an immersive luxury shopping experience, aimed at giving you exclusive access to new jewelry and watch styles from the world’s preeminent brands including:

Fabergé, imaginative and surprising designs worthy of the illustrious Faberge family name

Les Artisans de Genève, an intimate circle of highly-specialized independent watchmakers who pay tribute to legendary watch styles

Mimi So, whimsical, highly original and deeply sentimental jewelry designs that reflect an artist’s creative evolution

Manufacture Royale, a 250-year old watch brand, originally founded by Voltaire, gets a second life

TrueFacet Brand Boutique was designed to celebrate the talent and ingenuity of emerging designers and prominent international brands—and introduce them to our jewelry and watch-loving community. Through this revolutionary portal, you can learn the brands’ inspiring and fascinating history and get an in-depth look at every piece’s core inspiration and fine craftsmanship.

Every collection selected for TrueFacetBrand Boutique is the work of passionate designers and skilled artisans who invest so much of themselves into their designs. In turn, TrueFacet Brand Boutique aims to bring you ever closer to the creative process; we go beyond the product details and take you through the iterations the designer drafted, scrapped and re-worked in their relentless journey to perfect their final design. You can also explore how materials are responsibly sourced and where the item is meticulously assembled by the world’s leading craftspeople. This exclusive and exhaustive look at the production of every item—from conception to construction—inspires a new level of appreciation for these designers and your own collection.

We invite you to start exploring TrueFacet Brand Boutique and hope you uncover not only a beautiful piece to complement your personal style, but also connect with the stories that inspired its creation.

Personal style—it’s one of the things that separates humans from the other mammals that roam this planet. It doesn’t matter if you’re a teenager or are well into adulthood: your style is something people have complete and utter control of. But when it comes to building a jewelry collection that reflects our personal style, sometimes it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why we’re here to help.

Here are four basic questions you can ask yourself which will help determine what your personal jewelry style is to get you on your way to building your dream collection.

“Do I love gold or do I savor silver?”
Or heck, do I do both? Starting a jewelry wardrobe should begin in the way that most wardrobes begin: by determining a color palette and working off that. A great place to start is by looking at your skin tone since jewelry is worn directly on or against the skin. If your skin is warm, tan, bronze, or brown, you’re lucky because you can go with white metals if you prefer, although gold metals often look best. If your skin is pale and has pink undertones, going with yellow or rose gold pieces (or even blackened metals for an edgier look) will play off your skin’s hue. And if your skin has a medium tone with yellowish undertones, metals like platinum, white gold, palladium, or silver work well.

Now, if you’re the type that would rather not follow some skin tone rule because you like what you like and that’s the end of that, then, good on ya, because the jewelry world is your playground at this point. Mix your metals for a modern look and throw in alternative metals like brass, copper, and tungsten while you’re at it. It’s you’re style, after all. Own it as much as possible.

“Am I a dangle darling or a sexy stud?”
Whether your hair is short or long, earrings are the perfect place to start building your jewelry wardrobe because for the most part an earring is the first piece of jewelry anyone will see when they speak to you. Think about it: rings, bracelets, and watches are worn on your hands and wrists, and necklaces may be noticeable first, but only if the person is looking at your chest (which you likely hope they aren’t). But jewelry on your ears comes to right about eye-level, so when a person looks into your eyes—as they should when they’re speaking to you—their peripheral vison is likely leading them to the lovelies on your lobes.

Studs are a standard in many jewelry collections but dangles show off your fun and fashionable side. Having both will allow you to go from day to night, office to event, and from simple to sexy in one easy step, so consider a pair of each as a place to start building up your soon-to-be bountiful bauble box.

“Should I put a ring on it?”
Rings! They’re the jewel most written about in folklore and they’re an essential to any jewelry collection. But how do you know which ring is right? Should you buy one statement ring? Several smaller stackable rings? A variety of both? Gemstone rings? Diamond rings? The options are seemingly endless.
Here is a great way to start: if you don’t already wear a ring but want to buy one (or more) for your collection, go with something versatile that you can add to later when the opportunity arises. You already have your metal choice, so something like a wide gold band, a designer stack, or a silver statement piece will work even if you want to add colored or gemstone rings down the road at some point to fancy up your delightful digits.

“Watch-u, watch-u, watch-u want?”
Nothing says, “I’m serious about who I am and what my style is” like a well-made timepiece that can be worn with everything. Watches have always been a staple in the wardrobes of both women and men, and if you take care of them, they will be a mainstay in your collection for many years to come.
When selecting a watch – either new or pre-owned – try going with one that you can easily change the straps on so that you can adjust your timepiece to your social situation or mood and so that you’ll feel like you’re wearing a different watch every time, depending on how many straps you also want to purchase).

Happy shopping!

Before you invest in piece of diamond jewelry, you want to glean a little extra information from your jeweler so you know that you are getting the best value for your dollar. Here are four essential questions (and what to look for in the answers) when shopping for loose diamonds or diamond jewels.

MUST-ASK QUESTIONS WHEN SHOPPING FOR LOOSE DIAMONDS OR A DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING

Q1. Is the loose (unset) diamond or the mounted (set) diamond certified by a reputable independent lab?

A1. In most cases, unless the stone is set in a vintage mounting and is from an era when labs either did not exist or were not used as often, diamonds will be accompanied by an independent certification. The most reputable grading labs in the United States that issue diamond certifications are the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), or the American Gem Society Laboratory (AGSL). These are two of the strictest labs in existence and their certifications will inform the buyer of the diamond’s carat weight and shape as well as its color, clarity, measurements, polish, symmetry, and sometimes (in the case of a modern round brilliant cut), cut grade. If, for some reason, the diamond is not accompanied by a certification from one of these two labs but you’re still interested in purchasing it, see if the seller is willing to allow you a reasonable “full-money-back” return policy so that you have time to take the diamond to be independently graded by an appraiser.

Q2. With all the diamond simulants in existence right now, how do I know if this diamond is real?

A2. Every seller – whether they are an online store or a brick-and-mortar shop – should allow the buyer a reasonable time frame in order to have their purchase independently appraised. Appraisers will be able to “test” the diamonds using electronic testers but also be able to view the diamond microscopically in order to determine whether or not it is a natural stone or a diamond simulant. If the seller does not offer some sort of return policy or questions why you want to take the diamond to be appraised, then take your business elsewhere, as that is a huge red flag.

MUST-ASK QUESTIONS WHEN SHOPPING FOR DIAMOND JEWELRY OR PIECES THAT CONTAIN SMALLER, CLUSTERS OF DIAMONDS

Q3. What is the approximate color and clarity of the diamonds in the piece?

A3. Since small (often under .20 carats) diamonds – known in the jewelry world as “melee” – are rarely independently graded by the diamond labs listed above, you are permitted to ask what the approximate color and clarity grades are for the stones as a whole. You also want to make sure that, if there are several diamonds in the piece, the colors of those stones match one another. Most of the time, the naked eye cannot pick up a color difference of up to two grades on small diamonds, but if there is a distinct variation in the color from one diamond to the next (and the piece is not designed to be that way) then you probably want to find a different bauble that suits your style.

Q4. Are the diamonds in this piece natural diamonds (mined from the Earth) or man-made diamonds (grown in a lab)?

A4. Fifteen years ago, this was not a question that would have been asked, but with the growing popularity of man-made diamonds (particularly with millennials) as a result of the stigma sometimes associated with mined diamonds, this question is now a relevant one and not one that you should feel odd about asking.

To be clear, either answer is a good one, but whether or not you buy the piece based on that answer will come down to what your personal preference is. Both are actual diamonds, and you should be aware of that. Both have the exact same metabolic make-up. Diamonds grown in a lab are not fake, and diamonds that have taken millions of years to form in the Earth are not always “blood” diamonds. If you do your research on both, you will be able to make an educated decision as to which type of diamond is the right one for you.

Jewelry and watches can make for very sweet, personal gifts, and it can certainly be difficult sometimes to find the words that match them. Whether you’re buying your sweetie something special for your anniversary or congratulating a family member for graduating high school, you can use the message ideas we’ve compiled to add a nice personal touch to the card that will accompany your gift.

For Anniversaries

1. Thank you for being the sparkle in my eye these [10] years. May the next [10] together be as bright as this [diamond necklace]!

2. To the best parent, the best partner, and the best person to split popcorn with, you are worth ten thousand of these [watches]. Thank you for marrying me.

3. This [diamond ring] commemorates the beautiful [15] years we’ve spent together. Thank you for being my rock all this time.

4. Like the [sapphire] in the center of this [ring], you’ve been the center of my life for [4] years. I can’t wait to grow, laugh, and learn with you every day for the rest of forever.

For Birthdays

1. Congrats on completing [18] revolutions around the sun! It has been a pleasure watching you learn and grow during your journey to adulthood. Here’s hoping this [bracelet] will make the next few laps better and brighter for you!

2. Happy Birthday! To me, this [watch] is as beautiful and classic as you are. Enjoy [25]!

3. Wishing you the happiest birthday, and the most hangover-free day after. Don’t lose this [necklace] while you’re out celebrating tonight! Enjoy [21]!

For Graduation Gifts

1. Congratulations! We’re so proud of your dedication to your education. Enjoy these [earrings] as you take your next steps into the bright future ahead of you.

2. Bravo! We couldn’t be happier for you, and we wish you the best of luck at [the University of Michigan]. In the spirit of school pride, give this [sapphire necklace] a loving home when you move into the dorm.

3. Congratulations, graduate! Enjoy the fruits of your labor: this [bracelet] is yours now because you dare to dream, remain resilient and strive for the best.

4. Welcome to the workforce! May this [bracelet] remind you to never lose the creativity and vivacity that makes you special. Best of luck!

For Holidays

1. Merry Christmas! May your days be merrier and brighter now that you have this [bracelet] to keep you company.

2. Happy Hanukkah! I hope you enjoy every happiness this holiday season—starting with these [earrings]!

3. Happy Father’s/Mother’s Day! This [necklace] is to thank you for making home the most wonderful place to be.

4. Happy Father’s Day! Thanks for taking the TIME to raise me with all the love you could give. Enjoy your new watch!

5. Happy Mother’s Day! I hope this [watch] makes up for all the times I drove you crazy growing up. Thanks for everything!

Just Because

1. For putting the sparkle in my eye, the spring in my step, and the love in my heart. I hope this [necklace] shows you how much I appreciate everything you do for us every day.

2. Some [earrings] to brighten up your life a little, just like how you brighten up mine.

Are you curious about the engagement ring style that would suit you and your wardrobe the best? We’ve put together 6 beautiful setting designs, and one of them could be your perfect match. Tally up your answers to the questions below to find out what your engagement ring style is and get a quick history lesson on each of the styles featured. But hey—no cheating!

Questions

1. What do you usually have for breakfast?

A) A green smoothie (open shank)

B) Artisanal coffee (channel)

C) Oatmeal with fruit (three-stone)

D) Bacon and eggs (solitaire)

E) A full continental breakfast (halo)

F) Coffee with a croissant fresh from the bakery (antique filigree)

2. Which is your favorite smartphone app?

A) VSCO: I’m a visual person and I love playing with photographs

B) Snapchat: I love watching everyone’s Snapchat stories and seeing what they’re up to.

C) Twitter: It’s my favorite way to get my news and share my thoughts with my followers at the same time.

D) Facebook: Those viral videos keep me entertained and I like having all my contacts in one place

E) Tumblr: My aesthetic/poetry blog is my escape from the daily grind.

F) Instagram: I love looking through everyone’s posts and curating my own grid.

3. Choose your ideal city to vacation in:

A) Singapore: It’s such a beautiful, modern city and a less-common tourist spot.

B) Tokyo: The culture is so fresh and vibrant, and the efficient transportation system makes it easy to get around.

C) New York City: With all its different neighborhoods and its wealth of history, New York would be like visiting a dozen cities at once!

D) London: I want to dive into this city’s classically posh atmosphere.

E) Paris: The City of Love! I’d be remiss to pass up a vacation in such a lovely, romantic city.

F) Istanbul: This city has such a rich history, and the amazing art and architecture is a major plus.

4. What’s your favorite book genre?

A) Science fiction: Creative world-building is my weak spot.

B) Celebrity biography: I love knowing what my favorite artists are all about!

C) Mystery/Thriller: This is genre is a tried and true example of how gripping complex stories can be.

D) Poetry: I’m a fan of symbolism and I like paying close attention to form.

E) Romance: The mushy emotional stuff is right up my alley.

F) Classical fiction: Bring me back to the age of swordfights, balls, and fancy clothes!

5. Pick a puppy:

A) Borzoi: They have such a unique look!

B) Maltese: They’re adorable, and they’re hypoallergenic.

C) Cocker spaniel: What’s good enough for Queen Victoria is good enough for me.

D) Golden Retriever: Who can resist such an affectionate and playful breed?

E) Poodle: They’re such beautiful, refined dogs.

F) Chihuahua: They’re so small and cute!

6. Finally, where will your wedding take place?

A) Theme park: I want my guests to have fun!

B) Garden: Garden weddings are so elegant and beautiful.

C) Museum: I’d love to be surrounded by art on my wedding day.

D) Library: Books are such a comfort to me and I’d love to be wed in a room full of them.

E) Beach: A casual wedding at the beach would be perfect!

F) Castle: I can’t pass up the grandeur of a beautiful, historic castle

Tally up your answers!

MOSTLY As: The Split Shank Ring

The split shank ring refers to the style in which the band separates as it approaches the stone of the ring and puts the stone at the center of a fluid display. Like a split shank-style ring, you are the type to go with the flow. You’re a bold and unconventional person who likes taking risks. As such, your closet is full of bright colors and daring patterns. Your favorite pieces are regulars within the glossy pages of avant-garde fashion magazines, and like this lively-looking ring, your outfits are always camera-ready.

The split shank ring has only recently started receiving the attention that it deserves. This versatile engagement ring setting is thoroughly modern, and has been enjoyed by Hollywood A-listers like Queen Bey herself. The split shank trend started its upward trajectory in 2015 and continues to gain popularity because of the flexibility with which one could design this contemporary setting. An ultra-customizable ring like this one is a great fit for today’s personalization craze.

MOSTLY Bs: The Channel Set Ring

Full of geometric details and strong lines, channel setting rings have multiple stones held together by the band in an elegant row. Like a channel setting–style ring, you’re bold and versatile, which puts you at the forefront of every modern trend. You’re organized, concise, and practical without ever being boring, and the same goes for your wardrobe. You’re not afraid to play with unique textures, and stripes are your best friend. This ring’s robust geometric shape meshes perfectly with your edgy style.

The channel setting ring has been a popular choice for a long time; it has been in high demand since the age of Art Deco, when strong structures and bold lines reigned supreme, both in architecture and in jewelry. Over the years, the utilitarian design of channel rings has flexed to fit the proclivities of ring enthusiasts, much as the styles of the age evolved. Even Marilyn Monroe, a fixture of the 1950s, wore a classic, channel-set eternity band. These days, however, gone are the traditional rigid lines of classic channel rings: in their place come the curved, feminine designs that make modern channel setting rings unique.

MOSTLY Cs: The Three-Stone Ring

Three-stone rings are exactly what they sound like: instead of one large center stone, these rings feature three stones side by side. This classic style has been around for decades and because of the many ways it can be shaped and set, it has always been au courant. This versatile setting is always interesting without sacrificing its roots in tradition, just like you! You will always find a way to make a timeless little black dress or tailored suit interesting. Your personal touch is one of sleek sophistication, and you’re economic with splashes of color. This balanced but luxurious ring style will perfectly complement your wardrobe’s refined simplicity.

The three-stone setting has been used since Edwardian times, but it has only been used for engagement rings since 2001, when famed diamond company DeBeers marketed three-stone diamond rings as symbols of the “past, present, and future” of the couples who wear them. This genius marketing scheme has, in turn, become reality; three-stone rings are ascribed with significant meaning, often referring to the past-present-future idea, but also to “friendship, love, and fidelity”. Either way, this particular setting is incredibly sentimental and incredibly beautiful. Loved by the likes of Nicole Kidman and Sofia Vergara, this setting allows you to take advantage of the brilliance of three perfectly cut stones.

MOSTLY Ds: The Solitaire Set Ring

When people think of engagement rings, this is the style that often comes to mind. Solitaire rings are the epitome of classic engagement ring styles, and for good reason. Their simple style puts the focus on the center stone and gives it the attention it deserves. This timeless setting resonates with tradition, but allows for a personal touch in the details. Like a solitaire ring, you appreciate the simple things in life. While you might lean more towards a traditional, uncomplicated lifestyle, you never let that spark of individuality that decorates your character (and your wardrobe) fizzle out. Simple, classic pieces like white cotton blouses and trim suits lay the foundation for each of your outfits, but what really makes them pop are the items that you add to them that distinctly reflect your dazzling personality. Your wardrobe’s captivating minimalism, like the classic solitaire ring that complements it, will never go out of style.

This setting has been used practically since time immemorial, since it is the simplest and most effective way of showing off a beautiful center stone. The minimalism of the solitaire setting makes it easily customizable so that each iteration is deeply personal to whoever wears it. As such, some of the most famous rings in history are solitaire rings: Elizabeth Taylor’s 29.4-carat diamond ring was a solitaire, as well as Mia Farrow’s pear-shaped ring from Frank Sinatra.

MOSTLY Es: The Halo Ring

Halo rings feature a single center stone with a “halo” of smaller stones surrounding it. This vintage-style setting allows its precious stones to shine vividly and draws the attention of every discerning eye. With your feminine personal style, this ring’s brilliant sparkle will pair excellently with anything in your wardrobe. The simplicity and luster of this style works best with pieces with soft, romantic designs—think flowy tops, floral patterns, and lots of lace. Your wardrobe is a healthy mix of simple, classic items and more eye-catching statement pieces. You’re no stranger to playing with color, but the outfits you put together are always the perfect balance between sentimental and striking. Halo rings are perfect for the romantic fashionista with a taste for the limelight.

The halo setting has a long and storied history that began in the Georgian era, but the setting didn’t truly make its mark until it started increasing in popularity during Queen Victoria’s reign. It maintained its upward trajectory through the 1920s, when Art Deco designs were infused into the setting, then faltered a bit as World War II began. The halo setting was resurrected in the 1960s and plateaued for some decades until Princess Diana chose a stunning sapphire engagement ring with diamonds set in a halo around the generous center stone and cemented the halo setting’s classic status. This setting not only showcases the center stone and makes it appear larger, but it also maximizes the overall brilliance of the ring.

MOSTLY Fs: The Antique Filigree Ring

An antique filigree ring has ornate details soldered onto the band and often the setting of the center stone. These delicate curves give the ring a unique texture that evokes the romantic intricacy of the past. Like a filigree ring, you revel in the details. You’re an old soul who probably fancies themselves cut from the same cloth as one of history’s iconic figures, like Eleanor Roosevelt, for example. You tend to be attracted to vintage pieces with a delicate, worn-in feel to them. Your wardrobe is probably brimming with pieces from thrift shops, consignment stores, or vintage shops, but even with the modern inclinations of today’s crowd, you make that traditional style work.

Antique filigree rings are the most delicate and intricately-set pieces on this list. Their creation requires jewelers to spend countless hours engraving filigree details into the band or soldering tiny milgrain elements onto the metal. Because of the laborious nature of this setting, many jewelers stopped making them until the ability to entrust a computer to laser-etch the intricate motifs on metal became possible. Authentic, hand-carved antique filigree rings tend to date back to the 1910s and 1920s, which is when they were popular. Sometimes referred to as Edwardian or Art Deco rings, antique filigree rings are rather large so the elaborate geometric motifs evocative of the popular designs of the era can be incorporated into the band and head of the piece.

For more examples of different kinds of engagement ring settings, visit our guide here.

At first blush, the Rolex GMT-Master and GMT-Master II appear to be the exact same watch. They both feature a sleek black dial and a rotatable bezel to quickly read a second time zone.

So what exactly is the difference between these two models? Here’s how you can distinguish a Rolex GMT-Master from a GMT-Master II.

The History of the Rolex GMT-Master
First issued in 1954, the Rolex GMT-Master was originally designed for Pan American Airways pilots and crews for their long-haul and international flights. The watch borrowed its named from Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which, at the time, was chosen as the world’s time standard and was a crucial part of aeronautical calculations.

The Rolex GMT-Master was a breakthrough for PanAm pilots: the rotating bezel allowed them to set the watch to GMT, then turn the 24-hour scale bezel to set the offset and effectively read a second time zone.

After the Rolex GMT-Master was introduced, the design remained largely unchanged with only a handful of updates to improve its durability. In 1956, the luminous Bakelite bezel was replaced with a stronger metal bezel. Later, in 1959, a crown guard was added and the dial inscription included, “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified.” The Rolex GMT-Master was also offered in gold and gold and stainless steel with new bracelet options including leather, oyster and jubilee bracelet.

The Rolex GMT-Master II Difference
Then, in 1983, the Rolex GMT-Master II was released. While the GMT-Master II looks practically identical to its predecessor, the differences all lie inside the watch case. The GMT-Master II boasts a movement with a quickset hour hand. This independently adjustable hour hand means the local time can be set without stopping the second, minute or 24-hour GMT hand.

In more concise terms, the GMT Master has a quickset date and relies on the rotatable bezel to read the second time zone. Meanwhile, the GMT Master-II has independent hour-hand and 24-hour hands in addition to the original rotating bezel that allows the wearer to compute a third time zone. In order to fit the updated movement, the GMT-Master II is slightly thicker than the original GMT-Master; this is the only real visible difference between the two highly similar watches.

The GMT-Master and GMT-Master II were briefly simultaneously in production until the GMT-Master was discontinued in 1999. The GMT-Master II ranks as one of Rolex’s most beloved styles and carries on the tradition, aesthetics and utility of the original GMT-Master.