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Up Close with the Midsize Oyster Perpetual Ref. 77080
The Original Oyster Perpetual 31mm Oyster Case
As we’ve seen, the Oyster Perpetual is a wide and varied Rolex collection with an abundance of styles, reference numbers, and sizes. Sometimes, it’s a challenge to make sense of it all since there are so many details to comb through. Take the midsize Oyster Perpetual for example. While today, Rolex categorizes the Oyster Perpetual 34 and the Oyster Perpetual 36 as midsize options. However, prior to 2014, that was not the case. The original midsize Oyster Perpetual included a 31mm Oyster case. With that, let’s have a closer look the midsize Oyster Perpetual ref. 77080.
The Midsize Oyster Perpetual Ref. 77080 Design
The midsize Oyster Perpetual ref. 77080 is exclusively available in stainless steel and sports a 31mm Oyster case along with a matching sporty Oyster bracelet. Sitting in between the ladies and mens Oyster Perpetual sizes, the 31mm midsize version was targeted towards both male and female clients. However, according to today’s watch trends, 31mm would probably be better suited for a woman’s wrist.
There are a few dial styles to choose from within the midsize OP lineup. A particularly popular one is the Explorer-style dial with the signature oversized 3, 6, and 9 numerals accompanied by stick indexes. This type of watch face adds a sportier touch to the midsize Oyster Perpetual. This is almost like a ladies’ version of the Rolex Explorer. Otherwise, for a dressier look, there are Roman numeral dials, along with simple stick markers dials too.
The Midsize Oyster Perpetual Ref. 77080 Movement
As with all other OP watches, the midsize Oyster Perpetual ref. 77080 is a time-only model. The dial of this Rolex three-hander is especially minimal due to the lack of the “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified” label typically found on other Rolex watches. But it is indeed COSC-certified.
At the heart of the midsize Oyster Perpetual ref. 77080 is the Rolex Caliber 2230—a version of the Rolex Cal. 2235, but without the date function. The automatic mechanical movement (hence the “perpetual” in the watch’s name) operates at 28,800 beats per hour and offers a power reserve of 42 hours.
Pricing and Availability of the Midsize Oyster Perpetual Ref. 77080
The midsize Oyster Perpetual ref. 77080 is no longer in production, however, as with any discontinued Rolex model, they can be sourced from the secondary market. Particularly appealing is the price point of this reference.
For around $4,000, ladies can enjoy an understated everyday Rolex luxury watch crafted in robust stainless steel and supported by a precise and reliable in-house watch movement. An ideal timepiece for a chic and modern lady, the midsize Rolex Oyster Perpetual offers all the fundamentals without the any of the frills.