In a daring departure from conventional luxury watches, Luna Skye, the Los Angeles-based fine jewelry brand, is set to launch a limited 15-piece vintage Rolex capsule collection. This innovative endeavor breathes new life into classic Rolex designs, melding tradition with contemporary aesthetics.
Samantha Conn, founder and creative director of Luna Skye, draws inspiration from her family’s rich history in watchmaking and a personal connection to the iconic two-tone Rolex Datejust 36. The collection, carefully curated with the assistance of an expert dealer in LA, comprises five units of three distinct styles, each born from a meticulously restored Rolex base.
While traditionalists may raise an eyebrow at modifying Rolex watches, Luna Skye’s approach maintains the brand’s integrity and pays homage to its classic design. Conn explains, “There are so many reimagined Rolex watches out there that take away from the beauty of the design that the brand is known for. I wanted to make sure that we kept the integrity of and respect for the classic design while adding my own personal touches.”
The collection features three styles, each weaving a unique narrative. The Good Luck iteration incorporates gold cowboy boot and horseshoe motifs, while the Dark Mermaid pays homage to Conn’s Southern California roots with oceanic accents on a custom black dial. The Emerald style, adorned with a mix of baguette and round emeralds, showcases Luna Skye’s signature gold honeybee.
Despite the modifications, Conn ensures the subtlety of Luna Skye’s creations. “A Rolex is beautiful on its own,” she notes. “We wanted to highlight that and not overpower it or overshadow it.”
While these bespoke timepieces come with a price tag ranging from $20,195 to $21,925, reflecting the craftsmanship, materials, and rarity, Conn emphasizes that their demographic differs from traditional Rolex enthusiasts. “This is for someone looking for something a little bit different. It’s a conversation starter, rather than something standard or something for the buy-and-sell Rolex market.”
Luna Skye’s vintage Rolex collection not only defies norms but also introduces a captivating dialogue between tradition and contemporary expression, offering a distinct choice for those seeking a unique and personalized timepiece experience.