Rolex Yacht-Master 42 White Gold

The presented model is perhaps one of the most interesting and unique Rolex models ever – this is one of the timepieces we have pursued for a relatively long time. The so-called “new” Yacht-Master itself was introduced in 1992 with reference 16622, and in 2013 the series was replaced with the improved version 116622 – with the new bracelet, the new clasp, and changes to the dial. As is known, these models are named “Rolesium” by the brand's creators and designers (we have some suspicions that at Rolex, besides technical geniuses, there are also many philologists who take care of inventing terms and names) – with this name, the brand denotes the combination of steel and platinum in its timepieces. The Yacht-Master is the first model from the Oyster Professional series in which Rolex used the so-called “Maxi Dial” – a dial design where the markers and hands are larger for better legibility, thus also improving the luminescence (at least because there is a larger area to be filled with luminescent material). The other difference compared to other models from the Oyster Professional series is the shape and thickness of the case – on the Yacht-Master, it more closely resembles that of a Daytona (which is from a completely different series) than a Submariner, for example – in this way, the entire look of the watch is much more elegant and dressy than its “diver” brethren. The presented model, however, is let's put it this way – “a little more special”… Introduced for the first time in 2019, it became one of the brand's most desired gold watches, as it carries several innovations. First, for the first time, it was in the Yacht-Master that Everose was used – a special Rolex alloy of 18-carat rose gold with additions of platinum (the brand claims that this way the color of the alloy does not change over time): second, for the first time in this model, the brand's new strap model was used, the so-called Oysterflex – a rubber strap with inserts of a titanium and nickel alloy, very comfortable and incredibly beautiful in combination with the massive gold clasp; third, for the first time, the bezel is a raised Cerachrom – again, in combination with the rose gold case, a phenomenal result is achieved. All this gives you the opportunity to own a truly unique timepiece in the creation of which precious metals and numerous innovations have been used – and all this in a case of precious metal with an incredible presence! The specific model is even more interesting, as it is released in the larger 42 mm case and is made of far more understated white gold. The other difference is the movement – the new Yacht-Master has the honor of carrying the new caliber 3235, which has an increased power reserve of 70 h, a seriously improved automatic winding system where the rotor is now on a ball bearing, and its efficiency has been increased by 15%. As for the lubrication, the reverser wheels, as one of the problematic areas from the point of view of friction, are Teflon-coated! The new 3235 has 14 integrated patents and more than 90% new components, and it is also twice as accurate as the official COSC chronometer. Most readers are probably aware that Rolex calls its water-resistant cases Oyster. I.e., if this name is present in the watch's designation, it means it has a certain water resistance – well, with this model you won't be able to explore the ocean depths – but you will have no problems on your yacht, even if during some turn you fail to keep your balance and find yourself in the sea, as the guaranteed water resistance is 100 m. and it is well known that Rolex tests this parameter with at least a 50% margin. The watch's dial is very clean and easily legible, and the luminescence on the hands and indices facilitates its use at night – it is in a pleasant to the eye bluish color and glows sufficiently bright and long. Regardless of the fact that the Yacht-Master is a professional instrument, as was the manufacturer's intention from its very launch, it is clear to everyone that for a long time it has become a luxury attribute – and for a long time this function has prevailed over the original reason for its creation. Perhaps for this very reason, Rolex does many things in this model so that the appearance and overall impression the watch creates prevail over its functionality. The first thing that makes an impression is the sapphire – Rolex is notorious for the fact that they do not put anti-reflective coating on the crystals of their watches – there are several versions as to the reasons, but the one I like the most is that Rolex does it so that the look of their timepieces does not change for a long time and generations of its owners can enjoy this consistency. For the case back of the watch, Rolex uses a simple solid case back (as, by the way, in all its models) – in this case, it is devoid of any markings, inscriptions, or other “decorations”. As we have already mentioned, 18-carat white gold is used for the production of this model, and as is a widely known fact, Rolex can be called fanatics when it comes to the alloys they use – a large part of the metallurgical processes are done in-house to guarantee a uniform quality of the raw material – many watches have passed through my hands, but I can say with absolute certainty that no other brand devotes so much attention and effort to the quality of the final product in terms of the finish of the cases – and as a result, a unique quality and presence cannot fail to be achieved. The overall impression is complemented by the bi-directional rotating bezel of the watch – here again, the material is a special creation and is different from commonly used materials, which is why Rolex calls it – “Cerachrom.” The bezel itself is raised – the base is satin-finished, and the raised numerals are polished – the final effect is phenomenal. As we have already mentioned, an Oysterflex rubber strap with a profile that tapers towards the clasp is used here – this makes it very comfortable, and the clasp has a safety catch with a micro-adjustment capability and the Glidelock adjustment allowing for up to 15 mm of extension. Certainly, this model was created at a time when Rolex is perceived more as a fashion accessory, which, however, has all the qualities to become a long-term partner to its owner, one that will not only not abandon you but also will not lose much of its value, because it is no secret to anyone here that this brand, besides not being found with large discounts when new, also has the reputation of a brand with the best value-retaining watches, and this particular model can boldly rank in the forefront of Rolex in terms of attractiveness and is consequently one of the most sought-after and desired. Surely, one of the reasons for this is the fact that this watch looks equally good on your wrist whether you are in a formal suit or dressed in worn-out jeans and a white t-shirt – in both cases, the Yacht-Master will help attract appreciative glances to your appearance.