For Watches & Wonders 2022, Rolex brings a third iteration —now in yellow gold—of the Yacht-Master with an Oysterflex. The first iteration of the Yacht-Master with Oysterflex bracelet was released at Baselworld 2015 sporting an Everose Gold case and in two different sizes that included a 37 mm —perfectly sized for ladies or for men with smaller wrists— and a 40 mm one. Then for at Baselworld 2019 Rolex presented a Yacht-Master in 18K white gold with a 42 mm case. The new Rolex Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226658 in 18K yellow gold marks a new step in the Oysterflex saga and the Yacht-Master.

Things to Know About the Watch

The new Rolex Yacht-Master 42 in 18K yellow gold ref. 226658 features the same type of dial as its other Oysterflex siblings but without the red ‘Yacht-Master’ writing that has been present on the dial of the Yacht-Master since its release in 1992 as ref. 16628.

Just like on its siblings sporting an Oysterflex bracelet, the new Rolex Yacht-Master 42 18K Yellow Gold ref. 226658 is fitted with the same black matte sandblasted finished cerachrom bezel with raised highly polished numbers and markers. This matte bezel is only fitted on the Yacht-Master and not present on any other professional Rolex model.

The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 18K Yellow Gold ref. 226658 is powered by the new Rolex calibre 3235 with Chonergy escapement patented by Rolex. This is the first Yacht-Master to be equipped with this new calibre that provides a power reserve of 70 hours.

This performance elastomer strap with flexible metal blades in its core was developed and patented by Rolex using a high-performance elastomer overmoulded over a flexible titanium and nickel alloy metal blade. To provide higher resistance, the metal blades are located within the areas where the strap connects to the case and to the clasp. For enhanced comfort, the inside of the Oysterflex bracelet is equipped with a patented longitudinal cushion system that stabilizes the watch on the wrist to prevent it from turning around and maintaining it centered on the wrist. The cushion system membrane is extremely smooth to the touch and very comfortable.

On the Wrist & Pricing

On the wrist, the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Yellow Gold ref. 226658 looks and wears slightly smaller than its actual size due to the black on black combination. A great looking watch that is perfect for those wanting to maintain an 'under the radar' look, while still wearing a solid gold timepiece.

Sticker Price $28,300 USD. For more info on Rolex click here.