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Lewis Hamilton isn’t just switching teams—he’s setting the stage for a whole new era, both on the racetrack and beyond. Now racing under the prancing horse for the 2025 Formula 1 season, the seven-time world champion is already making his presence known—scoring points in Melbourne and securing a sprint race victory in Shanghai. However, away from the grid, Hamilton is revving up something a little more personal: his dream of designing a Ferrari road car.
In a quiet moment during the Australian Grand Prix, Hamilton revealed that he has big plans in the works. “One of the things I really want to do is I want to design a Ferrari,” he told Motorsport.com. “I want to do an F44. Baseline of an F40, with the actual stick shift. That’s what I’m gonna work on for the next few years.” That’s right—Hamilton wants to resurrect the soul of the iconic F40 and bring it into the modern era, complete with a good old-fashioned manual transmission. The name? F44, a nod to the F40 and his signature race number, 44.
To provide context, the Ferrari F40 is iconic. Released in the late ’80s and famously approved by Enzo Ferrari himself before his death, it was a powerful, twin-turbo V8 powerhouse with no unnecessary features—just pure, analog driving pleasure. If Hamilton successfully creates its spiritual successor, it would be the first manual Ferrari road car since 2012, which is significant. Since then, Ferrari has focused on F1-style paddle shifters and hybrid performance, which, despite their incredible speed, have left enthusiasts yearning for the hands-on experience of manual gear shifting.
Interestingly, Hamilton’s plan taps into a trend that’s gaining serious traction: ultra-exclusive, manual-only supercars built for the love of driving. Brands like Pagani and Gordon Murray Automotive are proving that there’s a thriving market for analog excellence in a digital age. While Ferrari has taken the hybrid route with cars like the 1100 hp F80—constructed to meet strict European emissions regulations—it hasn’t quite scratched that nostalgic itch. A limited-run F44 could change all that.
And let’s not forget—Hamilton’s influence is greater than ever right now. Off the track, he’s constructing a lifestyle empire. He recently signed on as the face of Lululemon, a move that perfectly aligns with his personal brand of high performance meets mindfulness. He’s also wearing $1 million Richard Mille watches as part of his Ferrari deal. Simply put: Hamilton understands style, branding, and impact—and if he’s serious about creating a road car, people are going to pay attention.
As of now, there’s no official word on whether Ferrari will give the F44 the green light, but the very idea of Hamilton designing a stick-shift supercar has enthusiasts buzzing. If it happens, it could easily become one of the most exciting and talked-about releases from Maranello in years. A manual Ferrari with Hamilton’s name on it? That’s the kind of bold move the supercar world didn’t know it needed—but now desperately wants.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
Our team of editors and experts thoughtfully chooses each product. If you decide to buy through one of our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. Want to know how we test products? Click here for more details.
If Rolex were to release a new model in 2025 that wasn’t a Submariner, Daytona, or GMT-Master II, the watch world would likely raise a collective eyebrow and then rush to their nearest authorized dealer. Enter the Rolex Land-Dweller — a name that sounds like it’s been hiding in plain sight, just waiting to be summoned into existence.
In a move that’s equal parts a nod to heritage and a forward-thinking flex, the Land-Dweller stands as the rugged, land-based sibling to the legendary Sea-Dweller. It’s not here to dive deep or fly high; it’s built to conquer terrain, elevate adventure, and sit boldly on the wrist of the modern explorer who prefers mountains over oceans, altitude over depth. Think of it as the Explorer’s brawnier cousin—with some serious technical chops to back it up.
So, what exactly is the Land-Dweller bringing to the table (and your wrist)? We’ve broken down all the essential specs, discussed design, examined pricing, and determined whether this new tool-watch earns its place in the Rolex pantheon or serves as hype bait for collectors. Shall we start with it?
Highlights:
Rolex introduces the Land-Dweller, available in two case sizes, featuring a new Flat Jubilee bracelet and the innovative Calibre 7135.
Features a honeycomb dial, open 6 and 9 numerals, and enhanced Chroma-light lume for maximum legibility.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Land-Dweller 40 in White Rolesor | Image: Rolex
How Much Does The Rolex Land-Dweller Cost?
The Land-Dweller is available in ten distinct variants, divided between 36mm and 40mm case sizes, with pricing heavily influenced by your material of choice. From White Rolesor steel-and-white-gold hybrids to solid Everose and platinum gem-set references, this collection encompasses various styles and investment levels, each tailored to various tastes and occasions. Here’s a full breakdown of each:
Rolex Land-Dweller 36mm:
Rolex Land-Dweller Ref. 127234 (36 mm, White Rolesor) – USD $14,000
From the understated elegance of White Rolesor to the full-throttle flash of a gem-set platinum showpiece, the Land-Dweller lineup covers the entire spectrum. There’s something here for both the seasoned collector and the bold first-time buyer. Just don’t expect to walk into a boutique and grab one off the shelf—Rolex’s prestige and limited availability mean these models will be incredibly difficult to find. Sure, the price tags climb quickly—but so does the craftsmanship, the presence, and let’s be honest, the bragging rights.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Land-Dweller White Rolesor 40 mm | Image: Rolex
Every Rolex Land-Dweller Model You Need to Know
Rolex has launched the Land-Dweller in two models: Rolex Land-Dweller 36 mm (Women) and Rolex Land-Dweller 40 mm (Men).
Although they appear differently on the wrist, both versions are identical in every aspect. Each model is powered by the same movement, crafted with equal precision, and offered in three premium case materials: (White Rolesor, Everose Gold, and 950 Platinum). You can also select between a fluted bezel or a gem-set bezel, depending on your desired level of boldness. Visually, there’s a slight distinction—White Rolesor and Everose Gold models feature a striking white honeycomb dial, while the platinum versions display a unique ice-blue honeycomb dial.
That’s where the exterior similarities end. So, why don’t we take a closer look at the full technical lineup of the Rolex Land-Dweller?
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Land-Dweller White Rolesor 40 mm | Image: Rolex
Brand: Rolex
Model: Oyster Perpetual Land-Dweller White Rolesor
The Rolex Land-Dweller is the brand’s boldest new release, designed not for the ocean’s depths or the skies above, but for solid ground. Think of it as a tribute to earthbound exploration, combining the muscular build of a professional tool watch with the refined aesthetics for which Rolex is known.
Unlike the Sea-Dweller, which was engineered for saturation divers, and the GMT-Master, which caters to frequent flyers, the Land-Dweller is grounded—literally. It’s designed for everyday adventurers: those who climb, hike, explore, and appreciate a watch that can handle rugged outdoor conditions while still looking sharp in the city.
One of the most distinctive features of the Rolex Land-Dweller is its honeycomb-patterned dial—a subtle yet striking detail that sets it apart from anything else in the brand’s current lineup. It is textured, refined, and just bold enough to catch the light without screaming for attention.
Depending on the case material, you’ll find one of two dial colorways: a clean white honeycomb dial on the White Rolesor and Everose Gold models, and a cool, luxurious ice-blue honeycomb dial on the 950 Platinum variants. That ice-blue tone, exclusive to platinum in Rolex’s catalog, adds a layer of quiet sophistication that only seasoned collectors will immediately recognize.
The hour markers and numerals are where things become even more intriguing. The open 6 and 9 numerals are directly inspired by the Explorer and Air-King models—a nod to Rolex’s adventure-driven heritage. All hour markers are coated with Chroma-light luminescent material extending each index’s full length, offering excellent nighttime visibility. But here’s the kicker: Rolex claims the luminescent compound used here is harder and more durable than materials typically used, maintaining the same colour, glow, and hue in daylight across the entire dial.
The Rolex Land-Dweller debuts with a brand-new Flat Jubilee bracelet, a fresh interpretation of one of Rolex’s most recognizable designs. Flatter and sharper than the traditional Jubilee, this updated bracelet provides the watch with a more structured, contemporary feel while retaining the comfort Rolex is known for. Designed to match the case materials—White Rolesor, Everose Gold, or 950 Platinum—the Flat Jubilee combines brushed and polished finishes for a refined look that wears comfortably all day. It features the reliable Oysterlock safety clasp and Easylink extension system, enabling quick 5mm adjustments as needed. The Flat Jubilee not only enhances the Land-Dweller’s contemporary character but also provides a dynamic, adaptable presence on the wrist.
Movement
Inside the Rolex Land-Dweller ticks the all-new Calibre 7135, a movement that marks a significant advancement in the brand’s mechanical evolution. Beating at a high frequency of 5 Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour, it is built for precision and long-term reliability. It meets Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer certification, performing within -2/+2 seconds per day after casing—a tighter tolerance than standard chronometer ratings.
Winding is managed by the brand’s reliable Perpetual rotor, providing bidirectional self-winding for effective energy capture through natural wrist movement. The 66-hour power reserve guarantees that the Land-Dweller continues to tick even after a long weekend without being worn.
One of the biggest innovations here is the Dynapulse escapement, which ditches the traditional Swiss lever in favor of a rolling energy transmission system. The result is improved efficiency, reduced friction, and enhanced mechanical longevity—ideal for those who wear their Rolex as much as admire it.
Completing the movement’s technical package is a Syloxi hairspring for increased magnetic resistance and Paraflex shock absorbers for enhanced toughness under active conditions. Supported by 16 patents, the Calibre 7135 isn’t merely a movement—it’s Rolex redefining mechanical timekeeping from the inside out.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Land-Dweller 40 in White Rolesor | Image: Rolex
What Do We Think About The Rolex Land-Dweller?
The Rolex Land-Dweller isn’t just another watch—it’s a confident step into new territory for the Crown. Every detail, from the case dimensions to the newly developed Calibre 7135, feels thoughtfully crafted, true to Rolex’s reputation for precision and restraint.
The choice between 36mm and 40mm sizes offers versatility without sacrificing presence. Both models wear beautifully, but it’s the debut of the brand-new Flat Jubilee bracelet that truly marks a turning point. It’s sleeker, more angular, and feels more contemporary compared to the traditional Jubilee design. Early impressions suggest it provides excellent comfort, though time will tell if it lives up to the durability Rolex bracelets are known for.
Dial options are strong across the board. The white honeycomb dial is crisp, clean, and infinitely wearable, while the ice-blue honeycomb dial, reserved for platinum models, is simply stunning—elegant without being over the top. Still, there’s a small part of us that wonders if more dial colours might eventually roll out; Rolex tends to play the long game. But for now, the two options feel carefully chosen.
Securing a Land-Dweller will be a challenge, no question. But perhaps that’s part of the appeal. The Land-Dweller isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. It’s crafted for those who appreciate the subtle art of Rolex’s slow yet deliberate innovation. If you’re fortunate enough to own one, you’re not just purchasing a timepiece—you’re owning a moment where Rolex once again expanded its world without ever losing its identity.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
