Rolex Yacht-Master White Gold Ref. 226659
The Rolex Yacht-Master in white gold is essentially a Submariner with a matte ceramic bezel, a larger case size – 42 mm instead of 40 mm, with a different text on the dial. For fans of the Yacht-Master, the converse can also be said vis-a-vis the Submariner. The 2019 white gold model is an addition to the earlier everose gold model which was available in 37 mm and 40 mm.
The Case and Dial
Sized at 42 mm, it sits in between the Sea-Dweller (43-44 mm) and Submariner (40 mm). The key visual difference between the dive watches and Yacht-Master is the bezel. Functionally the same, the Yacht-Master’s bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel is aesthetically and tactilely different.
The raised polished numerals and graduations stand out clearly against a matte, sand-blasted background. This provides an alternative to the polished cerachrom bezel on the Submariner and GMT models.
Like all Rolex Professional watches, the Yacht-Master 42 offers exceptional legibility in all circumstances, and especially in the dark, thanks to its Chromalight display.
Instead of the usual full metal bracelet, the gold Yacht-Master comes with the Oysterflex bracelet. The bracelet attaches to the watch case and the Oysterlock safety clasp by a flexible titanium and nickel alloy metal blade.
The blade is overmoulded with high-performance black elastomer which is particularly resistant to environmental effects, very durable and perfectly inert for the wearer of the watch. For enhanced comfort, the inside of the Oysterflex bracelet is equipped with a patented longitudinal cushion system that stabilizes the watch on the wrist and fitted with an 18 ct white gold Oysterlock safety clasp.
It also features the Rolex Glidelock extension system, designed and patented by the brand. This inventive toothed mechanism, integrated beneath the clasp, allows fine adjustment of the bracelet length by some 15 mm in increments of approximately 2.5 mm, without the use of tools.
The Movement
As with the case, the time-telling design is identical to the other 3 hand sports Rolex and Datejust models. The same movement is also used. The calibre 3235 is Rolex’s self-winding mechanical movement which offers superior precision, power reserve, resistance to shocks and magnetic fields, convenience and reliability. It incorporates the new Chronergy escapement patented by Rolex, which combines high energy efficiency with great dependability. Made of nickel-phosphorus, it is also insensitive to magnetic interference.
The 70 hour power reserve watch is Superlative Chronometer certified and has an accuracy of -2/+2 sec/day, after casing.
Concluding Thoughts
The visual impact of white gold with a black cerachrom bezel does not have the same effect as with the predecessor everose Yacht-Master. While some may prefer it for the stealthiness, the white gold model looks too similar to a Submariner. If given a choice to pick only one between the two precious metal Yacht-Master on Oysterflex, the everose is preferred. Then again, with most average Rolex sports watch buyers, the privilege of choice is generally non-existent.
3 Comments
A typically high quality Rolex product. I question the value proposition, however, as a PM Daytona on an Oysterflex bracelet is available for less than $1000 more than the Yacht-Master.
I have this watch. Bought it new at the Boulder CO Rolex dealer, after much lobbying to be the first on the list. It’s quite special. It looks cool. The band is awesome. Nice weight. The white gold is far more special than the rose gold. I don’t agree this could ever be confused with a Submariner. That all said, thanks for posting this!