The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 in 18k Everose gold does not look like your standard Rolex. That’s exactly why it’s so popular. Sure, it’s not super complicated but it does look badass. People are going nuts for this new Rolex Yacht-Master 40 with Oytsterflex strap. Read on to learn more about this luxury sports watch, including official pricing. Full disclosure, you will not learn anything about sailing from this article.
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Ref 116655
I knew the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 was a hit when many of my ‘non-watch’ friends began asking about it. They have been seeing coverage of the Yacht-Master everywhere. Isn’t this just another Rolex they said? And on the face of things, it seemed like they were right. There’s nothing ground-breaking about this new model from a technical point of view. So, what’s all the fuss about?
My first observation – and it is a rather obvious one – is that the new Rolex Yacht-Master 40 is a good-looking watch. It pairs a warm 18k Everose gold case with a stark black cerachrom bezel with raised numerals. More on that in a minute. First, let’s take a moment to appreciate how nicely the case, bezel and dial all tie together. This is understated, masculine luxury at its finest.
This is the first time Rolex has ever made a Yacht-Master with a matte black dial, which I find surprising. Seeing how nice it looks you can’t help but think; “what the heck took them so long?” I love the red print for the Yacht-Master designation across the bottom, above 6 o’clock. This is standard on Yacht-Master models. Paired with a black dial, it calls to mind vintage Red Submariners and Double-Red Sea Dwellers. Not to mention the modified Rolexes you see popping up everywhere.
The star of the show remains the matte black ceramic bezel/18k Everose gold case combination. It looks so unlike anything we’ve seen from Rolex before. Yet when you see it, you realize it’s everything you’ve been waiting for from the brand. The bidirectional 60-minute graduated bezel in Everose gold is set with a matt black Cerachrom insert in ceramic. Polished raised numerals and graduations draw the eye. A key component of the model’s visual identity, the bezel is also designed to be functional. It’s not a true regatta watch but it looks a heck of a lot better than most in the category.
The Oysterflex Bracelet
The patented Oysterflex bracelet gives the Rolex Yachtmaster 40 a touch of sportiness. According to Rolex the Oysterflex bracelet offers an alternative to metal bracelets. You don’t need to compromise on robustness, waterproofness or reliability though. At first glance, it resembles a rubber strap, offering the same suppleness and comfort. Yet its resistance and durability are comparable to that of a metal bracelet.
As with everything Rolex makes, the bracelet has been over-engineered. This ensures an end product that is fit for purpose. It will go the distance for years to come. At its core lies a flexible titanium and nickel alloy metal blade. This attaches to the watch case and the 18k Everose Oysterlock safety clasp. This blade is then covered over with high-performance black elastomer. A patented longitudinal cushion system stabilizes the watch on the wrist. This ensures enhanced comfort. Suffice to say, this is not a rubber strap that is going to fall apart on you.
Calibre 3135
Presented in the famed Oyster case, the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet). Inside the case is the Rolex calibre 3135. This self-winding movement is developed and manufactured in-house. It offers a central time display as well as an instantaneous date with rapid setting. Beating at 4hz, the power reserve is approximately 48 hours.
The calibre 3135 carries the Superlative Chronometer certification redefined by Rolex in 2015. This means it is certified as a chronometer by the COSC. It has then undergone extra Rolex-specific testing after casing. The result is a very accurate (−2/+2 seconds per day) and reliable movement.
The Rolex Yachtmaster 40 (Ref 116655) is available to buy from authorised Rolex retailers around the UK. The official UK retail price is GBP 18,350 for Everose gold.
For more information please visit the official Rolex website.
Technical Specifications: Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Ref 116655
- Case: Oyster – 40 mm – 18k Everose gold – monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown – bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel with matt black Cerachrom insert in ceramic, polished raised numerals and graduations – waterproof to 100 metres / 330 feet.
- Dial: Matt black – 18ct gold hour markers – Chromalight display with longlasting blue luminescence on hour markers and hands.
- Movement: Calibre 3135 – bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor – paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring – centre hour, minute and seconds hands – instantaneous date with rapid setting.
- Price: GBP 18,350.
