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Yacht-Master

THE WATCH OF THE OPEN SEAS

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master, the emblematic nautical watch, embodies the privileged ties between Rolex and the world of sailing that stretch back to the 1950s.

Launched in 1992, the Yacht-Master was designed specifically for navigators and skippers. Embodying the rich heritage that has bound Rolex and the world of sailing since the 1950s, this Professional-category watch provides a perfect blend of functionality and nautical style, making it equally at home on and off the water.

AN IMMEDIATELY RECOGNIZABLE BEZEL

The Yacht-Master is easily recognized by its bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel made entirely from precious metal (gold or platinum) or fitted with a Cerachrom insert in high-technology ceramic. The raised polished graduations and numerals stand out clearly against a matt background. This characteristic and functional bezel – which enables the wearer to read time intervals, for example, the sailing time between two buoys – plays a full part in creating the unique visual identity of the watch. The bezel can be turned with ease thanks to its knurled edge, which offers excellent grip.

CHROMALIGHT DISPLAY

The Yacht-Master offers great legibility in all circumstances, even in the dark, thanks to its Chromalight display: the large hour markers and broad hands are filled or coated with a luminescent material emitting a long-lasting blue glow – for up to two times longer than traditional phosphorescent materials .

THE YACHT-MASTER, SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER CERTIFIED

Like all Rolex watches, the Yacht-Master is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification redefined by Rolex in 2015. This exclusive designation attests that every watch leaving the brand’s workshops has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories and according to its own criteria. These certification tests apply to the fully assembled watch, after casing the movement, guaranteeing superlative performance on the wrist in terms of precision, power reserve, waterproofness and self-winding. The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolized by the green seal that comes with every Rolex watch and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.

The precision of every movement – officially certified as a chronometer by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) – is tested a second time by Rolex after being cased, to ensure that it meets criteria that are far stricter than those of the official certification. The precision of a Rolex Superlative Chronometer is of the order of −2/+2 seconds per day – the rate deviation tolerated by the brand for a finished watch is significantly smaller than that accepted by COSC for official certification of the movement alone.

The Superlative Chronometer certification testing is carried out after casing using state-of-the-art equipment specially developed by Rolex and according to an exclusive protocol that simulates the conditions in which a watch is actually worn and more closely represents real-life experience. The entirely automated series of tests also checks the waterproofness, the self-winding capacity and the power reserve of 100 per cent of Rolex watches. These tests systematically complement the qualification testing during development and production, in order to ensure the watches’ reliability, robustness, and resistance to strong magnetic fields and to shocks.

THE OYSTER CASE, SYMBOL OF WATERPROOFNESS

The Yacht-Master’s Oyster case, 37 mm, 40 mm, or 42 mm in diameter and guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet), is a paragon of robustness and reliability. The middle case is crafted from a solid block of Oystersteel, RLX titanium or 18 ct gold. The case back, edged with fine fluting, is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that allows only certified Rolex watchmakers to access the movement. The Triplock winding crown – fitted with a triple waterproofness system – screws down securely against the case. It is protected by an integral crown guard. The crystal, with a Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock for easy reading of the date, is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire and benefits from an anti-reflective coating. The waterproof Oyster case provides optimal protection for the movement it houses.

PERPETUAL CALIBRES 2236 AND 3235

Yacht-Master models are equipped with calibre 2236 (Yacht-Master 37) or calibre 3235 (Yacht-Master 40 and Yacht-Master 42), self-winding mechanical movements entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. Consummate demonstrations of technology, these movements carry a number of patents. They offer outstanding performance, particularly in terms of precision, power reserve, convenience and reliability.

Calibre 2236 is fitted with the patented Syloxi hairspring in silicon, manufactured by the brand. In addition to resisting strong magnetic fields, this hairspring offers great stability in the face of temperature variations as well as high resistance to shocks. Its geometry, which is also patented, ensures the movement’s regularity in any position. Calibre 2236 includes a paramagnetic nickel-phosphorus escape wheel.

Calibre 3235 incorporates the patented Chronergy escapement, made of nickel-phosphorus, which combines high energy efficiency with great dependability and is also resistant to strong magnetic fields. This movement is fitted with the blue Parachrom hairspring, manufactured by Rolex in a paramagnetic alloy. In addition to resisting strong magnetic fields, this hairspring offers great stability in the face of temperature variations as well as high resistance to shocks. It is equipped with a Rolex overcoil, ensuring the calibre’s regularity in any position.

The oscillator of these two calibres has a balance wheel with variable inertia regulated extremely precisely via gold Microstella nuts. It is held firmly in place by a height-adjustable traversing bridge enabling very stable positioning to increase shock resistance. The oscillator is also mounted on the Rolex-designed, patented high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers, further enhancing the movements’ shock resistance.

Calibre 2236 and calibre 3235 are equipped with a self-winding system via a Perpetual rotor, which ensures continuous winding of the mainspring by harnessing the movements of the wrist to provide constant energy. Calibre 2236 offers a power reserve of approximately 55 hours, while the power reserve of calibre 3235 extends to approximately 70 hours thanks to its barrel architecture and the escapement’s superior efficiency; moreover, from 2023, its oscillating weight is fitted with an optimized ball bearing.

The Yacht-Master’s movements will be seen only by certified Rolex watchmakers, yet they are beautifully finished and decorated in keeping with the brand’s uncompromising quality standards.

BRACELET AND CLASP: SECURE AND COMFORTABLE

The Rolesium versions (combining Oystersteel and platinum) and the Everose Rolesor versions (combining Oystersteel and Everose gold) of the Yacht-Master 37 and the Yacht-Master 40, as well as the Yacht-Master 42 in RLX titanium, are fitted on a three-piece link Oyster bracelet, equipped with the Easylink comfort extension link. This system, developed by Rolex, allows the wearer to easily increase the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm, for additional comfort in any circumstance. On the Yacht-Master 42 in RLX titanium, the bracelet includes ceramic inserts – designed by Rolex and patented – inside the links to enhance its flexibility and longevity.

The Yacht-Master 37 and Yacht-Master 40 in 18 ct Everose gold, as well as the Yacht-Master 42 in 18 ct yellow or white gold, are fitted on an Oysterflex bracelet equipped with the Rolex Glidelock extension system. This innovative bracelet, developed by Rolex and patented, singularly combines the robustness and reliability of a metal bracelet with the suppleness, comfort and aesthetics of an elastomer strap. It is composed of two flexible, curved metal blades – one for each bracelet section – overmoulded with high-performance black elastomer. Developed by the brand and patented, the Rolex Glidelock is an inventive mechanism comprising a rack located under the clasp cover that enables fine adjustment of the bracelet length, without the use of tools. The Rolex Glidelock on the Oysterflex bracelet has six notches of approximately 2.5 mm each, allowing the bracelet length to be adjusted easily, up to some 15 mm.

The Oyster and Oysterflex bracelets on the Yacht Master models are equipped with an Oysterlock safety clasp, designed by Rolex and patented, which prevents accidental opening.

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Making the case: The Rolex Yacht-Master is the most versatile collection of all their ‘Professional’ models

For most, the day after Christmas is Boxing Day. But, for some professional sailors, December 26 marks the beginning of the  Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. Organised by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, the race, which was first held in 1945, and has been sponsored by Rolex since 2002, consists of yachts ranging from 30 feet (9.14 metres) to 100 feet (30.48 metres), with crews both professional and Corinthian, racing through 628-nautical miles (1,163 kilometres) of open water. It is an absolutely gruelling race in which merely completing it is a massive accomplishment. But, I am no sailor myself. So when I heard about the race, my mind immediately wandered to the Rolex Yacht-Master.

As I sat pondering the collection, I began to think about just how underrated the Yacht-Master is compared to other “Professional” Rolex references like the Submariner, Daytona, and GMT Master II. So today I want to make the case that the Yacht-Master is not only massively underrated, but also the most versatile collection of all the “Professional” models. Normally in the Making The Case  column, we present arguments for and against. But, this time around I will make my case by highlighting five Yacht-Master watches (four currently in production, and one discontinued model that is readily available on the secondary market) that, at least in my mind, show why the argument for my case is quite strong.

Rolex Yacht-Master 42

Previously, the Yacht-Master 42 was only available in stealthy white gold. At Watches & Wonders Geneva 2022, Rolex finally introduced not only a yellow gold Yacht-Master 42, but also the first yellow gold Yacht-Master ever outfitted on an Oysterflex rubber bracelet. Lately many manufactures have been ignoring yellow gold, sticking with rose and white gold only. This is due to the fact that, in some eyes, yellow gold is considered dated. While some say dated, I say classic. It is hard to beat the purity of yellow gold. Ultimately buyers now have the best of both worlds, you can get the Yacht-Master 42 in white gold if you want to fly under the radar or in yellow gold if being a casual “G” is your vibe. Fingers crossed though that a stainless-steel Yacht-Master 42, or even a RLX Titanium version which we have already seen a prototype of, makes its debut in 2023.

Rolex Yacht-Master 37/40 Everose Gold

But Zach, what about rose gold? What if 42mm is too big for my wrist.  Well, you are in luck. Not only is the Yacht-Master available in an Everose case, but also in 37mm and 40mm sizes. The Everose model has yet to make the jump to 42mm, but the 37mm and 40mm configurations are every bit as up to spec as the 42mm. It utilises Rolex’s latest in-house automatic 3235 calibre with 70 hours of power reserve, it is also outfitted on the super comfortable Oysterflex bracelet, it follows the same visual theme with a fully polished case and stealthy matte black ceramic timing bezel, and it has a trip-lock screw-down crown secured Oyster case that is equally pledged with a depth rating of 100 metres – but could likely survive even greater depths. So, within this format you have three precious metal options and three case diameters. And the precious meets casual nature of being outfitted on a rubber bracelet makes the aesthetic, along with its size options, highly versatile.

Rolex Yacht-Master 37/40 Oystersteel and Platinum

But Zach, precious metal is totally out of my budget.  Well, while we wait for an Oysterflex-fitted Yacht-Master to be executed in steel or titanium, you still have Oystersteel and platinum options to work with as well. Available in 37mm and 40mm, on mixed finished oyster bracelets rather than on Oysterflex, the examples above are primarily made of 904L stainless steel. The platinum comes into play with the timing bezel, the insert made entirely of platinum. The gray ruthenium dial offers a really cool monochromatic look, broken ever so slightly by the turquoise Yacht-Master text and central lollipop seconds hand. If you are a New York Giants fan, or just simply prefer a more common blue dial with a pop of red, the configuration on your right is also available to explore. Both also utilise the 3235 movement as well.

Rolex Yacht-Master 42 White Gold Falcon’s Eye

Rolex is known for incremental change, and, for the most part, a sombreness befitting of their reputation for incredibly solid robust performance watches. But, in the modern era, as Rolex has skewed away from utility towards full-blown luxury, the Crown has begun to experiment a bit more. Sure, we have crazy pave dials, ombre dials, and rainbow Daytonas. But, the quietly released Yacht-Master 42 with a “Falcon’s Eye” dial shows just how strong their dial-manufacturing capabilities are. Many jested Rolex stole a page out of Grand Seiko’s playbook, with nature-inspired palm tree-motif dials on the Datejust. But this “Falcon’s Eye” dial is much more apt example of how Rolex can transform natural elements into an astoundingly cool looking dial. So, for those that need something out of the box, the Yacht-Master 42 is capable of such thrills as well.

Rolex Yacht-Master 35 ref. 168622 with platinum dial

While discontinued, older 29mm, 31mm, and 35mm Yacht-Master watches are also available for purchase as well – and for less than the retail pricing of a current 37mm model in Oystersteel and platinum. This means you have five size options on the table. To explore references like the Daytona and Submariner in their discontinued smaller sizes would require a large-budget worthy of bidding against serious collectors at auction houses like Phillips. A particular Yacht-Master favourite of mine is the ref. 168622 with a platinum dial. Yes, you read that right, the entire dial is made of solid frosted platinum. While the case and bracelet may be steel, the bezel and dial are full-platinum – very stealthy precious metal thrills. I also cannot recall another Rolex dial that utilises a frosted finish. Quite neat.

My closing statement

So, with six size options that can be explored, and a wide aesthetic range, the Rolex Yacht-Master offers the most versatility within the pantheon of Rolex “Professional” models. Prove me wrong.

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Any other year, the titanium yacht-master 42 would steal the show for rolex. this year, the brand has so many crazy releases that the ym flies under the radar. here's why it still matters..

A year ago, the very idea of a titanium Rolex was relegated to wild dreams. A prototype had been seen on the wrist of British competitive sailor Sir Ben Ainslie, but the widely circulated online photo had gotten so old that some of us began to wonder if the watch would ever see the light of day.

The pic that launched our titanium dreams. Image by Ineos Britannia Team / C GREGORY

Now, in less than five months, we've gotten two watches from the Crown cased in RLX Titanium (a grade 5 titanium). The first was last year's 50mm Deep Sea Special , the mega dive watch that obliterated the water-resistance record. And now this week we have the Yacht-Master 42, which unlike the DSS is sized so that a normal human being could conceivably wear it. 

Here it is. The first practically sized titanium Rolex, the new Yacht-Master 42. 

It's a big deal. But when seen next to Daytonas with display casebacks, Day-Dates with emojis, a solid-gold GMT-Master II, and an entirely new line of dress watches, a titanium Yacht-Master barely moves the needle of surprise and excitement. What a wild 48 hours this has been for the House of Wilsdorf.

In some ways, it feels like the appropriate response to not be that excited. After all, at this point every other watchmaker under the sun has made a titanium watch, from affordable Citizens in multiple colors of bezels and dials to Jean-Claude Biver's $500,000 minute repeater tourbillon announced Sunday.

And yet, as soon as the new titanium Yacht-Master ref. 226627 started to be passed around the room of Hodinkee editors during this week's Watches & Wonders trade show, the general reaction was just to laugh with surprise. This 42mm watch, which looks so sturdy, feels so unbelievably light. I mean, that's titanium for you. But still. You can't quite believe this watch is real, on a number of different levels. 

For any of us who've ever tried on a steel Submariner (a.k.a. anyone with a passing interest in Rolex), it's kind of comical to find out how much your brain is preconditioned to see a 42mm steel Oyster case, round indices, and Mercedes hands and think about the luxurious heft that awaits you.

At around 100 grams, according to Rolex, the titanium Yacht-Master is so light it breaks your brain.

For a moment, let's compare the new YM to last year's titanium Pelagos from Rolex's sister brand Tudor. Rolex's choice to put the watch on a bracelet instead of a sportier Oysterflex makes the comparison obvious. I've now spent time with both pieces, and I prefer the Yacht-Master. 

The YM, like the Pelagos, is distinctly a tool watch – something that would have been hard to say about Yacht-Masters in the past. But the finishing a world apart, which is saying something for such an understated metal as titanium.

Rolex's proprietary grade 5 "RLX Titanium" (stronger than the grade 2 of the Pelagos) has the curious property of being equally able to be brushed satin or polished, which means it has the nice sharp and shiny chamfers that you'd like to see contrasted against the dark grey and relatively matte metal. That combination also works well with the more matte and textured dial – and with the contrast of the raised black numerals against a matte ceramic bezel insert, which is is the main giveaway that this is still squarely a Yacht-Master.

My main critique (which I share into the void, knowing that Rolex designers will do whatever they think best) is that I wish they'd  stuck to the no-date design of Ainsilie's prototype. In the practical application of most sailing races, there's really no use for a date. If you're blue-water sailing and circumnavigating the globe, maybe its useful, though just like dive watches the practical application gives way to the reality of technology. So why not refine the design further and leave the date off altogether? And while we're at it, a better quick-adjustment option would be great.

The price is somewhat immaterial – CHF 13,400 – since the average collector won't be able to get it at retail anytime soon. But the new Yacht-Master 42 is more than a solid release. It's a more than a titanium proof of concept. It's a wearable piece that portends at least the possibility of future experiments with this fascinating material. 

For more information visit Rolex. 

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• Yacht-Master

Rolex Yachtmaster Platinum

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Product Details

Rolex yatchmaster 16622.

The Rolex Yachtmaster is the ultimate watch for those who live for a life on the open seas. Originally developed by Rolex to meet the unique needs of yacht enthusiasts around the world, the Rolex Yachtmaster was quickly adopted by the community. Today, the Rolex Yachtmaster 2 is the favorite for adventurers around the world looking for a timepiece that is precise, durable, and on the cutting-edge. The Yachtmaster Rolex's feature set includes a ruggedly handsome waterproof case, self-winding technology, rotating bezel, and classically designed dial. When seeking this timeless watch for your Rolex collection, the Rolex Yachtmaster price largely depends on its degree of rarity, year made, and feature set. The Rolex Yachtmaster is available in a number of dial color and bracelet type combinations. To find the perfect watch to add to your collection, it is recommended that you search the Internet. Try Googling Yachtmaster Rolex price and Google Rolex Yachtmaster Review for more information.

Authenticity

* All Pre-Owned Rolex watches are guaranteed to be 100% genuine and certified authentic. Certificates are issued by WatchCSA, the industry's leading independent authority on watch authentication. WatchCSA Certified Pre-Owned certificates are provided for an additional fee at checkout. All watches are shipped to fit the average size wrist (7 1/4" - 7 1/2" for men and 6 1/4" - 6 1/2" for women). Additional links can be purchased if needed. Note that "B&P" means "box and papers" where stated.

Shipping / Returns

Each order is ready for shipment within one (1) business day after the order is approved and processed. All watch orders are shipped FedEx overnight and are fully insured at no charge to the customer. Please be advised that for any deliveries from Bob's Watches, a recipient aged 21 years or older must be present to provide a signature upon receipt of the package.

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Product Reviews ( 14 )

awesome feel and look!!

Jesse at X135 was amazing, highly recommended. Number 4 Rolex for me. Treated me with amazing professionalism before he knew anything. Very knowledgeable, and great prices

great looking watch exactly as described. very happy

Exactly what I wanted for my 1st Rolex. Not the Daytona I dreamed about, but one day.

Great price, excellent condition

Excellent condition as described. Great support to coordinate shipping and delivery.

Watch delivered next day around 10:30am Sat. Look beautiful and in great condition with all original Rolex paper, cloth and box as advertised and expected. Carefully wrapped and well protected. Very happy with my purchase. Will definitely come back for more businesses.

Awesome staff, very friendly and professional

George spent the time to understand my requirements. He provided valuable insight that led to my selection. He is a real pro!

Beautiful dial . Well made with sturdy bracelet. Good value and value retention. A watch you enjoy wearing. Good for casual or formal wear.

immediate delivery. watch appears to have been fully serviced to like new condition. fair pricing. seems like a total win.

The Yachtmaster is very heavy and great looking. Very proud to own a Rolex. Bob's has the best prices hands down. Thomas W Braun

I had been looking for my next pre owned Rolex. I found Bobs out of the blue one day. Their prices were lower than anyone else I had been looking at. Once I got the Yachtmaster I was very very happy with the condition. It also had the Rolex box and papers.

Hands down the best watch I've ever bought! I love everything about it, from the unique platinum dial and the red details, to the high polish center links and luminous hour markers. I would recommend the 16622 to anyone considering a Yachtmaster.

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The Rolex GMT-Master II Steel & Yellow Gold 126713GRNR, And Why I Fell For It

I shouldn't like this watch... but i actually do..

Of course, there were some more important new models presented by Rolex at Watches and Wonders 2023. The updated Daytona , moving to a 12xxxx generation, the titanium Yacht-Master 42 or a new dress watch, the convincing Perpetual 1908 . Nevertheless, a pair of new models – to make it clear, colour and material updates on an existing watch – managed to get quite some traction. I’m talking about new yellow gold-equipped GMT-Master II watches , and specifically the Steel and Yellow Gold (call it two-tone or yellow Rolesor) reference 126713GRNR. At first, this watch should be everything I don’t like… But life is sometimes surprising. 

Above: the 116713LN and 116718LN, models discontinued circa 2019, equipped with yellow gold case/bracelet, or yellow Rolesor case/bracelet – images by www.watchclub.com

Before I go up close and personal with the 126713GRNR (reference numbers are going more and more complex at Rolex…) we first need to recap the facts, and look at this new two-tone steel and yellow gold GMT-Master II for what it is. First of all, next to the full yellow gold version (reference 126718GRNR), this new model marks the return of yellow gold in the collection. Indeed, since the discontinuation of the solid yellow gold models – 116718LN green or black dial – and the two-tone yellow Rolesor – 116713LN – a few years ago, your only option for precious metal GMTs were Everose (solid or matched with steel ), or white gold . And, also important, they all come on an Oyster bracelet.

These two new models feel actually very much like no-brainers, like unsurprising, totally expected models. Why? Because it feels natural to have Yellow Rolesor or solid yellow gold models in the collection. The watches you assume exist… but actually didn’t, at least for some years (from 2019 to 2023). So what’s the deal in 2023? Well, first of all, yellow gold, as a stand-alone material or combined with steel, returns to the Rolex GMT collection. Second, there’s a new two-tone bezel, in an unprecedented colour combination. Third, there’s a Jubilee bracelet in precious metal on the GMT, which is not only new but also hot. Last, I hate to say it, but they look very attractive. And I believe that it’s quite a general consensus here.

Today, I’ve decided to specifically look at the GMT-Master II Steel and Yellow Gold 126713GRNR. Why? First of all, while being a highly attractive watch, the full gold model is very flashy indeed and retails for almost 40k euros. Not very “wide audience” watch material. Second, the two-tone version has made yet another impression on me. It’s rather interesting to look at how tastes and trends evolve. Two-tone watches used to have a rather negative image in the past, but they’ve moved from “poor man’s” options (understand, I want gold but can’t afford the solid gold one) to “cool man’s” options recently. So, here’s my choice. Even I have a hard time explaining why… It’s everything I shouldn’t like.

Back to basics. This new Steel and Yellow Gold Rolex GMT is nothing more than a visual update. Case; the same Oystersteel middle case as before, measuring a typical Rolex 40mm diameter, a relatively thin 11.90mm height (it’s still a sports watch with a rotating bezel and 100m water-resistance after all), and a still acceptable 48mm length. Dimensions, shapes, and finishes are all identical to a Pepsi or a  Batgirl , with now a solid 18k yellow gold Triplock screw-down crown and notched bezel. The other novelty comes from the new ceramic insert, in an unprecedented combination of black and mid-grey ( GR is N oi R ). And I must that this muted, discreet combination pairs brilliantly with the warm tone of YG. As if Rolex wanted to keep the attention only on the gold accents, whether on the case, bracelet, bezel or dial. The rest is all discreet, subtle. This new insert is almost like a graduation on black. And I think it works even better next to the steel parts of this Rolesor edition.

As for the dial, it’s pretty straightforward too. No evolution to be noted in the design, it’s all about the colours and materials. As you’d expect, the black lacquered base is glossy, with applied hour markers and hands that match the case – thus, made of 18k yellow gold. And Rolex has also been slightly restrained when it comes to touches of colour. No flashy green or red accents on the GMT hand and GMT-Master II mention, just the same tone of gold as the rest of the dial. Tasteful and elegant, with just the dosage of bling you want in a gold or two-tone watch.

Importantly, this new GMT-Master II two-tone 126713GRNR, as well as the full yellow gold model, marks the first appearance of the Jubilee bracelet on precious metal GMT watches. It was only reserved for the steel Pepsi , Batgirl and Destro versions up until now. It means a 5-link, slightly vintage bracelet with polished 18k gold central links and brushed steel external links. Clasp; classic Oysterlock folding safety clasp with Easylink comfort extension link. Comfort; classic Jubilee, supple, soft and flexible. And the look is just as good as it gets (if you love Rolex and this style, of course).

Mechanically, no evolution either here. The new Rolesor GMT-Master II comes equipped with the Calibre 3285, an in-house automatic movement with Superlative Chronometer certification – meaning COSC certification and internal Rolex testing after casing, with -2/+2 seconds/day accuracy range. It features all of the brand’s latest innovations, including the Chronergy escapement, the Parachrom hairspring and paramagnetic nickel-phosphorus pallet fork and escape wheel, with a comfortable 70h power reserve. And like all watches from the range, it’s a flyer/traveller’s GMT watch , with an independently adjustable local hour hand, by one-hour increments.

So, why did I fall for this new 126713GRNR…? Besides the obvious quality of the watch, there’s something that goes down, as simple as it is, to feelings. For a rather inexplicable, or at least tangible reason, this new model created emotions in me. I used to own a GMT-Master II in the past (a reference 116710LN to be precise) and I’ve always loved the functionality and overall robustness of the watch, but blamed a certain lack of warmth and fun. It felt too technical, too cold. While I do believe that most professional Rolex watches should be steel, due to their own purposeful nature, the GMT-Master II is the one watch in the range that can use some bling, some colours, and some precious materials… Keep in mind that the Rolex GMT has never been a pilot’s watch in the military sense of the concept. It has always been a civilian watch, for travelling up in the sky.

All in all, and I’m fully aware that I’m being subjective here, I do believe this 126713GRNR is the new coolest GMT. And yes, you can tell me that I’m wrong in the comments below and list what version you prefer, because in the end, it’s all about personal tastes.

The Rolex GMT-Master II Steel and Yellow Gold 126713GRNR is now released and “available” from retailers (relatively speaking, even if the situation seems to have recently improved a bit) at a price of EUR 16,300 ,  CHF 15,700 or  USD 16,450 . More details at rolex.com .

Technical specifications – Rolex GMT-Master II Steel and Yellow Gold 126713GRNR

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Oyster Perpetual

Yacht-Master 42

An emblematic watch in rlx titanium.

The emblematic watch of the sailing world, the Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42 is now available in RLX titanium. More than a simple variation, the use of this new, robust and light material required the development of particular industrial techniques, allowing the metal to be manipulated with the utmost care. Advantages proven by Sir Ben Ainslie, renowned skipper and luminary of the SailGP, who tested a Yacht-Master 42 in RLX titanium exclusively created for him, enabling the development of the new version presented in 2023.

RLX titanium is a grade 5 alloy that is lighter than steel and denser than aluminium.

Mastering lightness

Titanium is a surprising metal. The titanium selected by Rolex to manufacture its watches is a grade 5 alloy named RLX titanium. It is both lighter than steel and denser than aluminium, yet harder and more resistant than either of these metals. Its characteristics are so unique that its processing and finishing – particularly the technical satin finish specially developed by Rolex and specific to watches in RLX titanium – required the development of a dedicated industrial process. Using RLX titanium to create the case and bracelet also reduces the weight of the watch by about one-third compared with the same watch in Oystersteel. A major watchmaking feat, marked by the distinctive symbol on the winding crown: a dash surrounded by two dots.

Unprecedented aesthetic balance

The new Yacht-Master 42 stands out with its finishes, a combination of technical satin, high-sheen and polished, proof of Rolex’s know-how in machining and finishing. The three finishes delight the eye with their subtle play on textures and light, contrasting the gleaming polished surface of the crown guard, the lustrous high-sheen on the top edges of the case lugs, and the matt of the technical satin finishing – with its pronounced grain – visible on the case and bracelet. An unprecedented aesthetic balance reinforced by the combination of the RLX titanium’s anthracite grey colour and the matt black colour of the Cerachrom bezel insert in ceramic.

Unparalleled comfort

The new Yacht-Master 42’s Oyster bracelet is also made of RLX titanium. Sporting a technical satin finish extending to the edge of its links and to the sides of the Oysterlock safety clasp’s cover, it is equipped with an Easylink comfort extension link that allows its length to be easily adjusted by about 5 mm. It also includes ceramic inserts inside the links to enhance its flexibility and longevity.

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Tested against the elements

In 2021, Sir Ben Ainslie, a four-time Olympic sailing champion, was chosen to test a Yacht-Master 42 specially designed for him. This gentleman skipper competed in the SailGP championship with the only watch of its kind in the world: a Yacht-Master 42 in RLX titanium. By exposing its watches to extreme conditions, Rolex perpetuates the vision of its founder Hans Wilsdorf, who saw the world as a living laboratory in which only extreme testing could provide evidence of a watch’s reliability. A chronometer with superlative precision, made of a material used in high-technology industries, the watch proved to be the perfect ally for the driver of the Great Britain team. Ultralight, robust and extremely corrosion-resistant, it accompanies him on board without hindering any of his movements.

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A breath of fresh air for sailing

It is a competition unlike any other in the world. With its multihulls travelling at more than 50 knots – almost 100 km/h – and comprising multiple events across the world, the SailGP series showcases the most innovative technologies in water sport. Rolex has been Presenting Partner and Official Timepiece of SailGP since the competition was inaugurated in 2019. A veritable ballet of the seas, SailGP is a spectacle like no other. Aboard their catamarans flying across the water, team members grapple with the elements, each playing a precise role.

Faced with the unexpected, they must band together to withstand stress and make instantaneous decisions. To sense the direction of the wind before the others and gain the best trajectory to win. Among these outstanding athletes is Rolex Testimonee Sir Ben Ainslie, who tested a Yacht-Master 42 in RLX titanium during races. With incomparable lightness, this watch offers unparalleled liberty of movement, as much on land as at sea. It allows the wearer to lead their life with a masterful hand, in the perpetual quest to balance speed and staying the course.

Oyster, 42 mm, RLX titanium