yacht master rolex 2023

.css-1obzumv{font-weight:700;font-size:clamp(1.875rem, 1.25rem + 1.5625vw, 3.125rem);line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:1rem;line-height:1.1;}.css-1obzumv:lang(th){line-height:1.5;} Yacht-Master 40 .css-18uwo57{font-size:clamp(1.125rem, 1.0625rem + 0.1563vw, 1.25rem);line-height:1.6;font-weight:300;line-height:1.2;text-wrap:balance;}.css-18uwo57 span{display:block;} Oyster, 40 mm, Oystersteel and platinum Reference 126622

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Staying on course

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 40 in Oystersteel and platinum with an Oyster bracelet.

Bidirectional rotatable bezel, timing the distance.

The Yacht-Master’s bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel is made entirely from precious metals or fitted with a Cerachrom insert in high-tech ceramic. The raised polished numerals and graduations stand out clearly against a matt, sand-blasted background.

This functional bezel – which allows the wearer to calculate, for example, the sailing time between two buoys – is also a key component in the model’s distinctive visual identity.

Exceptional legibility

Like all Rolex Professional watches, the Yacht-Master 40 offers exceptional legibility in all circumstances, and especially in the dark, thanks to its Chromalight display.

The broad hands and hour markers in simple shapes – triangles, circles, rectangles – are filled with a luminescent material emitting a long-lasting glow.

A legendary combination

Many Rolex watches are available with the now-legendary combination of yellow, white or Everose gold and steel known as Rolesor, but Rolesium is a creation specific to the Yacht-Master.

While the case and bracelet are in rugged Oystersteel, the bezel of the Rolesium versions is made of platinum, imparting a silvery whiteness and vibrant luminosity for an unmistakable sense of luxury.

The Oyster bracelet

Alchemy of form and function.

The Oyster bracelet is a perfect alchemy of form and function, aesthetics and technology, designed to be both robust and comfortable. It is equipped with an Oysterlock folding clasp, which prevents accidental opening and the Easylink comfort extension link, also exclusive to Rolex.

This ingenious system allows the wearer to increase the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm, providing additional comfort in any circumstance.

More Yacht-Master technical details

Reference   126622

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Oyster, 40 mm, Oystersteel and platinum

Oyster architecture

Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

Rolesium - combination of Oystersteel and platinum

Platinum bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated with raised numerals

Winding crown

Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system

Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date

Water resistance

Waterproof to 100 metres / 330 feet

Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding

3235, Manufacture Rolex

-2/+2 sec/day, after casing

Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting

Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers

Bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor

Power reserve

Approximately 70 hours

Oyster, three-piece solid links

Oystersteel

Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link

Highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence

Certification

Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing)

Learn how to set the time and other functions of your Rolex watch by consulting our user guides.

Yacht-Master 40

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New Rolex Watches for 2023: Everything You Need to Know

Major releases and bold moves take the watch world by surprise.

By Zen Love

If you thought Rolex was conservative, think again. With this year’s releases, unveiled at Watches & Wonders Geneva , the brand resoundingly rebuffed its reserved reputation. It introduced major new products that broke with the codes we’ve come to expect from the brand — thrusting into 2023 with new materials, movements and colorways. Catch up on the most important announcements below.

This story covers watches that Rolex either launched or discontinued in 2023. For a full breakdown of the all the Rolex watches still in production, read our other guide , updated for 2023.

The Yacht-Master 42 is the titanium Rolex we were waiting for

The new Yacht-Master 42 is a big deal: it’s not the first serially produced Rolex watch in full titanium but it’s the first one meant for the masses — that is, that’s sized to be wearable as an everyday watch rather than affordable or necessarily easy to actually buy.

Monochromatic like a Submariner and on a full titanium bracelet, it also makes the Yacht-Master collection feel more like the true, purpose-built sport watches for which Rolex is most loved. Now that the brand has broken the seal on titanium, other favorites could be in the pipeline, too.

The Perpetual 1908 is a completely new line (replacing the Cellini)

The Cellini is dead; long live the Cellini. Seemingly in its place is a new, much simpler collection called Perpetual 1908. That’s right, an entirely new Rolex collection — and yet, it’s clearly replacing the Cellini with a very similar case and bezel.

Its dial is simple with a seconds subdial at 9 o’clock recalling some the brand’s earliest models, and its movement is completely new — and visible through a display caseback, another departure for the brand. It has an observatory or Breguet-style hour hand, a 39mm case and only comes in precious metals with a couple different dial options. This is now easily Rolex’s dressiest watch.

The Daytona got redesigned details and a new movement

The Daytona is one of the most hyped watches in the world, and it turns 60 this year. Something special to mark the occasion was expected, and that turned out to be some subtle but substantive tweaks. The new generation has a completely new movement, the first time the brand has updated the Daytona’s movement since it went in-house in 2000.

At first glance, it looks the same as the outgoing generation, but on closer inspection you’ll see some differences. The case is still 40mm but has updated details, and the dial has a “new graphic balance.” Like the new 1908 watch, the platinum version features a display caseback. And, yes, there are also new steel versions with black and white dials.

The Explorer now also comes in a 40mm version

First it was 36mm, then it was 39mm, then it was 36mm again — and now it’s 40mm. The 36mm version introduced only two years ago isn’t going away, but the new watch is simply adding more options.

Based on Rolex’s teaser video , we thought we might be getting an entirely new case design or might even come in titanium, but this really is the familiar Explorer in Oystersteel in a slightly bigger case. We’re okay with that.

The new GMT Master II introduces a completely new bezel color combo

The GMT Master II now comes with a new bezel combo of black and gray. This kind of thing might be Rolex’s big release in a typical year, but the brand has really gone all out for 2023.

The new GMT Master II references only come in two-tone (“Rolesor,” or a steel-and-gold combo) and full yellow gold. Many GMT Master II watches get nicknames based on their bicolor bezels; for this one, we humbly suggest “Dark Knight.”

The Sky-Dweller got a movement upgrade

The Sky-Dweller got some new variants and a movement upgrade with the Calibre 9002 (featuring minor updates from the 9001). That’s it; nothing major for this line, but we do like the way it looks with a green dial in Rolesor Oystersteel and white gold, as shown above.

Wild Dials on Day-Dates and Oyster Perpetuals

Rolex often includes a few exotic dials in the mix of its releases. This time the brand got a bit artistic with some of very colorful executions in the Oyster Perpetual and Day-Date families with dials executed in lacquer. The colorful circles on the dial, which Rolex calls “bubbles,” can be found on versions of the Oyster Perpetual in 31mm, 36mm and 41mm models. The Day-Date got a similar treatment but with puzzle pieces instead of bubbles and goes a step further in playfulness incorporating emojis into the date display (like hearts) and positive words (“Happy,” “Eternity,” “Gratitude,” “Peace,” “Faith,” “Love” and “Hope”) instead of the day of the week.

Cellini, Yacht-Master II and Milgauss are discontinued

Rolex giveth and Rolex taketh away. You don’t need to shed a tear for these long neglected and somewhat overshadowed collections. They’re gone for now, but that just leaves room for the possibility that they’ll return in the future with the likes of new generations. Well, that seems like a possibility for the Milgauss, anyway; the Cellini seems to have its replacement in the 1908, as mentioned above. As for the Yacht-Master II… who knows? A watch being discontinued can even lead to a boost in interest for it, after all.

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• March 27, 2023
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Introducing The Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium: The Ultimate Sailing Watch

Rolex yacht master 42 titanium.

The 2023 Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium is the newest addition to the Yacht Master series, which has been a favorite among sailors and yacht enthusiasts since its introduction in 1992. This new Rolex model features a 42mm case crafted from Rolex’s proprietary RLX Titanium, offering both a lightweight feel and unparalleled durability. Additionally the 2023 Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium watch is designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the open sea while maintaining its stunning appearance.

In this introduction article, we will explore the features, design, and specifications of the 2023 Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium, as well as the pricing and availability.

Discover the rest of the Rolex 2023 watches released.

Key Features of the 2023 Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium

Titanium case & bracelet construction.

The Oyster case and bracelet are crafted from a RLX Titanium, ensuring exceptional corrosion resistance, lightweight feel, and a comfortable fit on the wrist. The Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium is unique because it is the first Rolex in history to have a titanium construction. Many well known brands have used this lightweight material to the past, in good success, and many felt like it was about time Rolex do the same. In our opinion, the Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium might surpass the Rolex Submariner as the most durable Rolex in the family.

Satin Finish

This watch is without a doubt a tool watch through and through. The complete satin finish of the Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium exemplifies that. The hardness of titanium plus the satin/brushed finish will ensure that this watch maintains is look for a long time to come.

Cerachrom Bezel

The black unidirectional rotatable bezel is equipped with a 60-minute graduated Cerachrom insert in black ceramic, offering optimal legibility and resistance to scratches and fading. The design esthetics of this bezel are not new to Rolex but there is no need to change a good thing. This bezel is absolutely perfect for the Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium.

Calibre 3235 Movement

The 2023 Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium is powered by the cutting-edge Calibre 3235 movement, offering a 70-hour power reserve and a precision of -2/+2 seconds per day.

Water Resistance

With a water resistance of up to 100 meters (330 feet), the Yacht Master 42 Titanium is perfect for water-based activities and sailing adventures. Although it’s not a dive watch, you’ll never have any issues wearing this watch while competing in water sports.

Oysterlock Safety Clasp

The Oyster bracelet is equipped with an Oysterlock safety clasp, ensuring the watch remains securely on the wrist even in the most demanding conditions. This is extremely important while being located in deep water because if your watch were to fail, you would never see it again.

Chromalight Display

This watch features a Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence, ensuring optimal legibility in low-light conditions. Have confidence knowing that either being out in the moonlight or at home in the dark, you will always be able to tell the time.

Pricing & Availability

The retail price for the Rolex Yacht Master 42 Titanium is $14,050 at authorized Rolex dealers worldwide. Expected demand for this model is high so expect to be put on a Rolex waitlis t if you are purchasing this model new.

Research tips on buying Rolex and how to improve on the waitlist.

This article was written with the assistance of AI, but all of the content has been reviewed and edited by me, the author Andrew Neita.

• 2023 New Watches , Rolex , rolex yacht master

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Hands-On Debut: Rolex Yacht-Master 42 in Titanium RLX

First introduced in 2019, Rolex is taking a new approach to the Yacht-Master 42 series, this time opting for a new case and bracelet material: titanium RLX. This grade 5 titanium alloy is exclusive to Rolex and has previously only been used for the Oyster Perpetual Deepsea Challenge presented last year. According to the brand, the extremely robust and corrosion-resistant metal makes the watch, which is designed for sailing, 30 percent lighter than other titanium watches.

The combination of polished, high-sheen, and technical satin finishes illustrates the brand’s prowess in finishing techniques. Together, they produce a subtle blend of textures and light, the gleaming polished surface of the crown guard and the lustrous high-sheen on the top edges of the lugs are radiant. Contrastingly, the matte surface created by technical satin finishing – with its pronounced grain – is visible on the case and Oyster bracelet. The bracelet is equipped with the Rolex Easylink 5mm comfort extension link.

In terms of design, the new version remains faithful to the original model presented in 2019. As in previous releases, it features a bidirectional bezel with a Cerachrom insert in matte black ceramic with raised and polished numerals and graduations.

The bezel frames the black dial that offers exceptional legibility in all circumstances, thanks to its Chromalight display. The broad hands and hour markers in simple shapes – triangles, circles, rectangles – are filled with a luminescent material emitting a long-lasting glow. Inside the watch is the manufacture caliber 3235.

Pricing for the updated Rolex Yachet-Master 42 is marked at $14,500.

To learn more, visit Rolex, here .

Love this piece from Rolex ! Cunningly it is not available as a 40mm so as to not hurt the sales of the platinum bezel YM’s…

The first ROLEX I really liked in years. It looks good, the material is about time. Owned at least three to four ROLEXEs, but not one was accurate out of the box. I also own three GP’s and two IWCs, a Jaeger, a Cartier, all are accurate out of the box. Go figure. I bought my first ROLEX at Cartier on Fifth Ave in the late sixties, branded with both ROLEX and Cartier label. It cost $190 with leather, not metal, bracelet. The ROLEX HQ was next door. I had to take the watch to it to get the time adjusted.

After all these years of no real change to fire one’s interest, other than the subject of the article above, ROLEX in my mind has become boring, as well as overpriced for the product they serve the public.

I am amazed though at the advertising prowess of the company everywhere on the planet, which must add at least $2000-3000 to each watch sold. That means that each watch sold is actually worth that amount less than the sale price. I’d rather put m money into the watch than the advertising company’s pockets.

I urge anyone reading this to pick up an IWC Ingeneur AGM ceramic series watch, check the back for the movement, and make his comparison to the value against the ROLEX of his choice. You’ll immediately see what I speak of. Incidentally, my father was a master watchmaker.

I agree with you it is a long time awaited stunning piece. Of course, titanium being my metal of choice, I might not be objective…LOL You really had an unfortunate series of bad luck with your Rollies. May I ask if you have had any recent iterations? Because at my house, the recent models all keep time like…”a swiss clock”…with about 1 second or less per day, constant months after months. You are privileged that your dad was a master watchmaker.

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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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Rolex Yacht-Master Size Guide

The Rolex Yacht-Master , a hallmark of craftsmanship and luxury, stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to impeccable design and relentless innovation. Emerging from Rolex’s illustrious line of sport watches, the Yacht-Master, although often overshadowed by its counterparts like the Submariner or Daytona, brings with it a unique appeal. This appeal doesn’t just stem from its sleek aesthetics or its maritime heritage, but also from its remarkable range of sizes tailored to suit wrists of all dimensions.

Since its debut in 1992, the Yacht-Master series has ventured through an intriguing journey, consistently expanding and refining its size offerings. New variants have been presented to the world, while others have gracefully retired, making way for the new. This continual evolution sparks the question for both seasoned collectors and budding enthusiasts alike: What sizes are currently available in the iconic Yacht-Master lineup, and how did they come to be? <> <>

Rolex Yacht-Master Sizes: A History

The Yacht-Master’s illustrious journey began in 1992, when Rolex introduced it to the world with a robust 40mm size (ref 16628). This initial offering was a statement of intent from Rolex, underscoring their dedication to creating a nautical-themed watch that combined style with functionality. This piece swiftly became a sought-after accessory for marine enthusiasts and Rolex aficionados alike.

Two short years later, in 1994, Rolex diversified its offering, acknowledging the demand for variety. They introduced the more petite 29mm and the medium-sized 35mm variants, catering to those with slender wrists or individuals seeking a more subdued size. These additions highlighted Rolex’s commitment to versatility and recognizing the diverse preferences of its global clientele.

The collection underwent a notable evolution in 2015. This year was marked by the unveiling of the 37mm Yacht-Master, a harmonious balance between the original 40mm and the smaller 29mm. This introduction was special not only for its new size but also because it was crafted in the luxurious Everose Gold, paired with the contemporary Oysterflex bracelet. This innovation, however, came with a bittersweet note: the 29mm and 35mm sizes, once celebrated, were discontinued, making way for the new.

2019 ushered in another size variant: the substantial 42mm model. This piece was designed to cater to those who desired a more dominant presence on the wrist. Not resting on their laurels, in 2022, Rolex adorned this 42mm variant in radiant Yellow Gold, showcasing their penchant for marrying opulence with innovation. And as if to further emphasize their dedication to pushing boundaries, 2023 marked the introduction of the 42mm Yacht-Master in a robust and sleek Titanium build, underscoring Rolex’s drive to incorporate contemporary materials without compromising the line’s timeless elegance.

<> Current Rolex Yacht-Master Size Options

Rolex’s commitment to innovation and precision is evident in its Yacht-Master collection, offering a diverse range of sizes to cater to a wide spectrum of enthusiasts. The distinct sizes, each with its unique configurations, provide watch aficionados with choices that reflect individual style, wrist dimensions, and personal preferences. In the contemporary lineup, we have three prominent sizes: the graceful 37mm, the classic 40mm, and the commanding 42mm. <>

The 37mm Yacht-Master strikes an exquisite balance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a moderately sized timepiece. It combines the versatility of the larger models with the subtlety of the smaller variants. Its available options are:

Solid Everose Gold with Oysterflex : A blend of Rolex’s signature Everose gold paired with the revolutionary Oysterflex bracelet, this variant exudes luxury while offering comfort.

Steel and Everose: This combination brings together the durability of steel with the warmth of Everose gold, creating a timepiece that’s both functional and visually appealing.

Steel and Platinum : A marriage of rugged steel and the elegance of platinum offers a timepiece that is simultaneously understated and opulent. <>

A direct descendant of the original Yacht-Master, the 40mm retains its predecessor’s essence while embracing modern touches. The available configurations are:

Solid Everose Gold with Oysterflex : Melding the richness of Everose gold with the athletic Oysterflex bracelet, this variant is a testament to luxury and innovation.

Steel and Everose : A harmonious juxtaposition of strength and elegance, this blend serves as a reminder of Rolex’s dedication to craftsmanship.

Steel and Platinum : For those who desire a blend of resilience and luxury, this configuration marries the robustness of steel with the shimmer of platinum. <>

The 42mm Yacht-Master, the newest and largest size in the collection, is designed for those who desire a commanding presence on the wrist. The available models for this size are:

White Gold: A manifestation of pure luxury, the white gold variant radiates understated elegance, making a statement without being ostentatious.

Yellow Gold with Oysterflex Strap : This variant, introduced in 2022, is a nod to Rolex’s heritage, with yellow gold representing the brand’s timeless allure, paired innovatively with the Oysterflex strap.

RLX Titanium with Titanium Bracelet : Introduced in 2023, this model showcases Rolex’s commitment to pioneering new materials. The titanium build not only offers durability but also a modern aesthetic, complemented by a matching titanium bracelet.

<> Discontinued Rolex Yacht-Master Size Options

Over the years, Rolex’s Yacht-Master collection has witnessed the introduction and subsequent retirement of certain sizes, reflecting the brand’s evolution and response to market dynamics. While these sizes might have been phased out of production, they remain significant in Rolex’s storied history and continue to hold a special place in the hearts of collectors. Two such notable sizes are the delicate 29mm and the versatile 35mm.

The 29mm Yacht-Master, designed for slender wrists, offered a blend of Rolex’s craftsmanship in a more compact form. The available configurations for this size were:

Solid Gold : A testament to pure luxury, this variant exuded opulence and was a favorite among those who appreciated the classic Rolex gold touch.

Two-Tone Steel Gold : A harmonious fusion of durability and luxury, this model combined the strength of steel with the warmth of gold.

Steel and Platinum : Merging the robust nature of steel with the elegance of platinum, this configuration offered a refined yet resilient timepiece.

Additionally, this size was available with slate, champagne, blue, and mother-of-pearl (MOP) serti dials, enhancing its appeal. <>

Sitting between the original 40mm and the petite 29mm, the 35mm Yacht-Master catered to those seeking a balanced size. Its available models included:

Solid Gold : Representing Rolex’s longstanding tradition of luxury, this variant showcased the brand’s expertise in crafting exquisite gold timepieces.

Two-Tone Steel Gold : A blend of functionality and opulence, this combination catered to those who wanted the best of both worlds.

Steel and Platinum : For those who preferred a touch of luxury with everyday durability, this pairing offered the perfect balance.

Much like the 29mm, the 35mm also featured the option of slate, champagne, blue, and MOP serti dials, making it a sought-after piece among collectors.

Rolex Yacht-Master Size Guide – Final Thoughts

The Rolex Yacht-Master series embodies a fusion of the brand’s time-honored craftsmanship, innovation, and luxury. Its diverse range of sizes, both current and discontinued, is a testament to Rolex’s dedication to meeting the evolving tastes of watch enthusiasts globally. While the newer sizes and configurations reflect the brand’s forward-thinking approach and embrace of contemporary materials, the spirit and essence of the Yacht-Master remain rooted in its rich maritime heritage and unwavering commitment to excellence.

For individuals keen on delving deeper into the world of Rolex, be it the Yacht-Master collection or any other Rolex timepiece, SwissWatchExpo stands out as a beacon. With its vast collection, profound expertise, and dedication to authenticity, it provides both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts a trusted platform to explore, learn, and invest in timepieces that aren’t just instruments of time, but also heirlooms of history and artistry.

Explore our selection of Rolex Yacht-Master models, along with thousands of authentic, pre-owned watches from the world’s best brands, at SwissWatchExpo.com . <>

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OYSTER PERPETUAL DAY-DATE 36

TIME STAMPED WITH EMOTION

With these versions of the Day-Date 36, Rolex brings an unexpected creative twist to one of its iconic models. By displaying a new emotion each day, the watch brings an element of spontaneity into the wearers’ daily life and allows them to invest the reading of time with their changing mood.

Rolex unveils three new variants of its Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36, full of joy and energy. Crafted from 18 ct yellow, white or Everose gold, these watches have adopted an original face. Rather than showing the day of the week, the arc-shaped aperture at 12 o’clock displays an inspirational keyword in English – ‘Happy’, ‘Eternity’, ‘Gratitude’, ‘Peace’, ‘Faith’, ‘Love’ and ‘Hope’. The window at 3 o’clock reveals daily one of 31 exclusive emojis in place of the date. Entirely created using champlevé enamelling, the dial is striking for the depth and intensity of its gleaming colours and decoration. The motif is inspired by a jigsaw puzzle. Turquoise blue, red, fuchsia, orange, green and yellow pieces fit together on a single-colour background, each representing one of the key moments in life. The hours are marked by 10 baguette-cut sapphires in six different hues set according to the main colour of the dial, which is turquoise blue on the 18 ct yellow gold and 18 ct white gold versions, and orange on the watch in 18 ct Everose gold. The new versions of the Day-Date 36 are equipped with calibre 3255, a movement at the forefront of watchmaking technology, enabling them to display a special keyword each day of the week and an individual emoji each day of the month, as well as the hours, minutes and seconds. Like all Rolex watches, the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 carries the Superlative Chronometer certification, which ensures excellent performance on the wrist.

EXCLUSIVITY ACCORDING TO ROLEX   At its launch in 1956, the Day-Date was a major innovation: it was the first calendar wristwatch to indicate, in addition to the date, the day of the week spelt out in full in an arc-shaped window at 12 o’clock on the dial – a technical feat at the time. The day of the week is available in a choice of 26 languages. Watches in the Day-Date range are made only of precious metals – 18 ct yellow, white or Everose gold, or 950 platinum. Worn by many of the world’s political figures, directors and visionaries, the Day-Date is instantly recognizable, in particular thanks to its emblematic President bracelet, whose evocative name, together with the eminent figures who have worn it, ensured the Day-Date became known as the ‘presidents’ watch’.

THE OYSTER CASE, SYMBOL OF WATERPROOFNESS A paragon of robustness and elegance, the 36 mm Oyster case of the new versions of the Day-Date 36 is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet). The middle case of these versions is crafted from a solid block of 18 ct yellow, white or Everose gold. Its case back, edged with fine fluting, is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that allows only Rolex watchmakers to access the movement. The Twinlock winding crown, fitted with a double waterproofness system, screws down securely against the case. The crystal, which features a Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock, 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 CALIBRE 3255 The new versions of the Day-Date 36 are equipped with calibre 3255, a movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex that was released in 2015 and fitted on this model in 2019. A distillation of technology, this self-winding mechanical movement delivers outstanding performance in terms of precision, power reserve, convenience and reliability. Calibre 3255 incorporates the patented Chronergy escapement, which combines high energy efficiency with great dependability. Made of nickel-phosphorus, this escapement is resistant to strong magnetic fields. The movement is fitted with a blue Parachrom hairspring, manufactured by Rolex in a paramagnetic alloy. The 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 is mounted on the Rolex-designed, patented high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers, increasing the movement’s shock resistance. The oscillating weight is now fitted with an optimized ball bearing. Calibre 3255 is equipped with a self-winding system via a Perpetual rotor. Thanks to its barrel architecture and the escapement’s superior efficiency, the power reserve of calibre 3255 extends to approximately 70 hours.

PRESIDENT BRACELET The new variants of the Day-Date 36 are fitted on a President bracelet in 18 ct yellow or white gold for those with a turquoise blue puzzle-motif dial, or in 18 ct Everose gold for the orange puzzle-motif dial. Created specially for the launch of the prestigious Oyster Perpetual Day-Date in 1956, this three-piece link bracelet, made only from 18 ct gold or 950 platinum, is still reserved exclusively for the Day-Date and precious metal versions of the Datejust. The President bracelet is equipped with an elegant concealed folding Crownclasp and includes patented ceramic inserts – designed by Rolex – inside the links to enhance its flexibility on the wrist and its longevity.

SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER CERTIFICATION Like all Rolex watches, the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification redefined by Rolex in 2015. This designation testifies that every watch leaving the brand’s workshops has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories according to its own criteria, following the official certification of the movements by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). The in-house 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 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 status is symbolized by the green seal that comes with every Rolex watch and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.

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OYSTER PERPETUAL COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA

The emblematic style and technical performance of the Cosmograph Daytona have cemented its iconic status well beyond the motor racing circuits. To mark the 60th anniversary of the watch, Rolex ensures the legend lives on by revisiting the entire range.

PERPETUAL 1908

Elegant, classic and decidedly contemporary, the 1908 immortalizes Rolex’s age-long daring spirit. Its conception is the result of the brand’s comprehensive in-house expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence.

OYSTER PERPETUAL YACHT-MASTER 42

Light and robust, the new Yacht-Master 42, in RLX titanium, is the ally of those who revel in freedom. Especially suited to the demands and pressures of competitive sailing, it delivers exceptional performance.

OYSTER PERPETUAL SKY-DWELLER

With its two time zones and annual Saros calendar, the Sky-Dweller is an elegant and trusted companion for world travellers. The range has been updated with numerous enhancements illustrating the role that excellence plays even in the tiniest details.

OYSTER PERPETUAL GMT-MASTER II

The GMT-Master II is available this year in two new versions – yellow Rolesor and 18 ct yellow gold – with a Cerachrom bezel insert in grey and black ceramic, an entirely new colour combination.

OYSTER PERPETUAL EXPLORER 40

The Explorer range is expanded with the arrival of a new 40 mm model. Offering enhanced legibility, this timepiece carries all the qualities that have made the Explorer – one of the brand’s first Professional watches – a reference throughout the decades. Simple, robust and corrosion resistant, the new Explorer 40 is crafted from Oystersteel, a Rolex proprietary alloy.

OYSTER PERPETUAL

Alive with colour, vitality and positivity, the new dials of the Oyster Perpetual in 31 mm, 36 mm and 41 mm are dotted with many-coloured bubbles that joyfully reunite the five hues introduced to the range in 2020.

The new Day-Date 36 welcomes dials made of decorative stone in shimmering tones that evoke the atmosphere of the Mediterranean coast. 

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Win: Bausele Royal Australian Air Force Centenary 2021

List Of Rolex Watches Discontinued At Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024 Including Every Yacht-Master II

As always, new Rolex releases bring the quiet discontinuation of Rolex watches, and Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024 is no different. Here’s a quick look at the watches Rolex discontinued from April 09, 2024.

Rolex Daytona Le Mans 126529LN

One of the most collectible and rare Rolex watches right from the moment when it was released in June 2023 , the Rolex Daytona “Le Mans” reference 126529LN was always destined to be unobtainable for the overwhelming majority of VIP customers of the brand. In a rather shocking development, Rolex drops it from its collection after less than a year, as the Rolex Daytona Le Mans was in production just from June 2023 until April 2024. Basically, it is a Daytona in 18k white gold with a black Cerachrom ceramic bezel with a red “100” marker in honor of the centenary of Le Mans. In other words, the Rolex 126529LN was produced just for the centenary of this legendary race, and no longer. It is back in 18k yellow gold for 2024.

Rolex Datejust 36 126200 & 126233 With A Palm Dial & Fluted Dial

The Rolex Datejust 36 reference 126200 with so-called Palm dials and Fluted dials also got the axe for 2024. These laser-etched dials were beautifully made as they displayed depth and fascinating light-plays between their bright and dark surfaces. They well and truly were a tour de force of Rolex’s in-house manufacturing know-how, and are discontinued after just 3 years in production for the Rolex Datejust 36 Palm dials and Rolex Datejust 36 Fluted dials.

The Entire Rolex Yacht-Master II Collection

It is extremely rare for Rolex to drop an entire collection, and such a development is all the more surprising for a watch fitted with an expensively developed, fully bespoke movement. The Rolex Yacht-Master II is such a watch, as its Rolex 4161 caliber with its programmable countdown regatta chronograph operated through a crown, two pushers, and a Ring Command is as quirky as they could ever get not just in the world of Rolex, but in the world of luxury watchmaking in general. This is to say that we wouldn’t be surprised to see the Yacht-Master II or its 4161 caliber return at some point. The Yacht-Master II was updated a few years ago with the Rolex “Professional” style handset replacing the straight hands that debuted on the piece in 2007, but the collection was otherwise left largely untouched by Rolex, other than dropping the 18k white gold reference 116689 in 2022.

These are the most important and notable discontinuation news of Rolex watches for 2024. We will keep our eyes out for others that might have slipped through, but Rolex axing the laser-etched dials on the Datejust 36, dropping the Yacht-Master II collection in its entirety, and producing the Rolex Daytona “Le Mans” for such a brief period in the brand’s history is big news for 2024. You can learn more at the brand’s website. 

• St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg restarts quest for municipal marina developer, operator

• Colleen Wright Times staff

City officials are restarting a plan to find a private company to redevelop the municipal marina located on the downtown St. Petersburg waterfront in exchange for letting it take over operations.

They announced the new 17-page request for proposals Friday morning. Bids are due July 14. A pre-proposal meeting will be held May 15.

This time, they’re specifically seeking firms that have five years of experience with saltwater marinas — a sticking point with a prior group that submitted a bid under former Mayor Rick Kriseman’s administration to do the same thing. Proposers could also apply to redevelop and operate Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro next to the marina.

A 2014 report recommended replacing 19 finger piers and 10 main walkway deck spans, as well as repairing concrete cracks, replacing degraded timber, making miscellaneous electrical repairs and rehabbing or replacing steel sheet piles. The prior group estimated it would cost $30 million for repairs.

The city envisions handing over operations to a private company through a lease to avoid spending tens of millions in taxpayer dollars. The company would collect rents for boat slips, giving a cut to the city.

“No matter how the agreement is constructed, we know that we need help in getting this done,” said St. Petersburg City Council member Gina Driscoll, whose district includes the marina. “I look forward to identifying a good partner to renovate the marina and preserve that asset on our waterfront.”

But the move to place a public asset on the prized waterfront under private control has given pause to some City Council members and the marina’s boaters and residents.

In a statement, City Development Administrator James Corbett called the marina “an anchor point of the Waterfront District.”

“This is just the next step in the revitalization of the marina and we look forward to finding a partner that sees the potential of this landmark in our community,” he said.

Officials are seeking a five-year lease agreement. Anything longer triggers a citywide referendum. The winning proposer could then request a public vote to allow a long-term lease of the property after finishing the marina’s redevelopment, or seek a new lease every five years subject to the City Council’s and mayor’s approval.

For groups seeking to also redevelop and manage Fresco’s, the city seeks a separate 10-year lease for the restaurant. The current lease on the restaurant expires next April.

“The physical condition of the restaurant is such that a complete replacement is envisioned (including seawalls, restaurant building and exterior seating areas),” the bid solicitation reads. “The ability to reimagine this location is desired.”

According to the request for proposals, the city wants the redevelopment to be completely funded by private-sector investment and/or marina user fees. The city does not plan on using taxpayer dollars for the redevelopment project with one exception: required seawall restoration for the central and south yacht basins.

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“It is preferred that the selected Proposer be responsible for the actual seawall restoration work in concert with the redevelopment of the marina,” the bid reads.

Proposers are asked to specify how the redevelopment will be paid for and what their equity investment would be, in addition to any public funding required for the project. The city also seeks a 20-year cash flow analysis of the marina’s operations, including revenue to be earned by the city and planned slip rates and increases over the lease term.

Mayor Ken Welch said in January that the city would issue a new request for proposals to redevelop and manage the marina because “it seems like that’s what the council is supporting.” A supermajority of City Council members — six out of eight votes — is needed to approve a lease on the waterfront, under restrictions that are part of the city’s charter.

There are 660 boat slips in the central and south yacht basins between the St. Pete Pier and Demens Landing Park. The slips that belong to the St. Petersburg Yacht Club and the Vinoy Marina are not a part of the city’s bid request. The marina serves year-round local residents and seasonal boaters, as well as commercial businesses, and has capacity for about 100 live-aboard residents.

The request for proposals asks for all existing marina staff to be given the opportunity to interview with the selected developer and operator to continue their employment. The selected firm must also maintain the existing mix of vessel sizes, including for small sailboats, business vessels and live-aboards. The city retains final approval rights over marina design and specifications.

“Marina slip rates will be established with an eye toward affordability for all users while staying market competitive,” the bid request said.

The request also asks proposers for renderings of the redevelopment along with a project schedule.

St. Petersburg Reporter

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