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Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Ultimate Buying Guide

First released at Baselworld 2019, the Yacht-Master 42 is the newest and largest addition to the Rolex Yacht-Master lineup. Historically, the Yacht Master collection has been the only Rolex sports model available in multiple sizes; however, until the release of the Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226659, 40mm was the largest case size available. Despite the fact that the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 introduced a new and larger 42mm case to the collection, at the time of writing, the model is only offered in a single configuration: a 42mm white gold case fitted with a black dial, black ceramic bezel, and matching black Oysterflex bracelet.

At first glance, the Rolex Yacht Master 42 reference 226659 appears very similar to the 40mm Everose gold model that is also fitted with an Oysterflex bracelet. Both watches feature black dials, matte black ceramic bezels with raised polished numerals, black Oysterflex bracelets, and Rolex’s in-house Caliber 3235 movement. However, while the core design of the Yacht-Master 42 is shared with the other Oysterflex Yacht-Master watches, the larger case paired with its toned-down monochromatic color profile makes it immediately distinct, and these small changes come together to make the Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226659 the perfect poster child for the modern Rolex brand.

Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Reference 226659

Yacht-Master 226659 Key Features:

– Reference Number: 226659

– Production Years: 2019 – Present

– Case Size: 42mm

– Materials: 18k White Gold

– Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds; Date Display

– Dial: Black w/ Luminous Hour Markers

– Luminescence: Chromalight

– Bezel: Bidirectional, Black Ceramic Insert w/ 60-Minute Scale

– Crystal: Sapphire (Flat w/ Cyclops Lens)

– Movement: Rolex Caliber 3235

– Water Resistance: 100 Meters / 330 Feet

– Strap/Bracelet: Oysterflex Bracelet

– Clasp: Oysterlock Safety Clasp w/ Glidelock Extension System

– Approx. Price: $28,900 (Retail); $33,500 (Pre-Owned)

Click here for our Ultimate Buying Guide on the Rolex Yacht-Master.

The History of the Rolex Yacht Master 42

Compared to many of Rolex’s other lines of watches, the Yacht-Master is a fairly young collection, having only just joined the brand’s catalog in 1992. While Rolex originally built much of its reputation by producing tough-as-nails tool watches, the brand had already started to make its transition towards becoming an all-out luxury manufacturer by the 1980s, and the Yacht-Master was created as an unapologetically luxurious take on the brand’s classic sports watch.

The Rolex Yacht-Master largely follows the same overall design as the Submariner, but leans more towards the opulent and luxurious side of things, rather than being a purpose-built underwater timing tool. Both the Submariner and the Yacht-Master feature rotating timing bezels, but while the Submariner’s bezel rotates unidirectionally and features a luminous dot at the zero-marker, the Yacht-Master’s moves bi-directionally and omits the luminous dot in favor of an insert crafted from either solid gold, platinum, or black ceramic. Similarly, all Rolex Yacht-Master watches feature precious metals somewhere in their construction. Even the most humble models that are largely crafted from stainless steel feature solid platinum bezels, and while the bezel insert on the reference 226659 is built from black ceramic, the watch itself is crafted from solid 18k white gold.

Initially, the Rolex Yacht-Master was exclusively offered in solid yellow gold and with a 40mm case. However, over the years, the collection expanded to include other case sizes and materials including both two-tone and Rolesium (a combination of stainless steel and platinum) references. Both a 29mm Lady Yacht-Master and 35mm Midsize Yacht-Master were previously offered alongside the standard 40mm model, but these two smaller versions were ultimately discontinued in favor of the Midsize Yacht-Master 37.

With that in mind, Baselworld 2019 marked the arrival of both an all-new Yacht-Master size and a new material option for the collection. With the launch of the reference 226659, not only was the Rolex Yacht-Master now available with a 42mm case diameter for the first time in its history but it was also offered with a solid 18k white gold case – something that was previously not an option within the standard Yacht-Master collection. While the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 marked a major step forward for the collection, the new 42mm case size is exclusively available for the ref. 226659, and the watch is only available in one single configuration. Given that the Yacht-Master 42 has only been on the market for a couple of years, many collectors speculate that the solid 18k white gold ref. 226659 is just the first of many 42mm Rolex Yacht-Master watches.

Rolex Yacht Master 42 Defining Elements

For the most part, the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 reference 226659 is a larger, white gold version of the Everose Yacht-Master 40 that is also on an Oysterflex bracelet. However, the ref. 226659 does possess a number of unique traits that make it immediately identifiable and separate it from all other Rolex watches.

42mm White Gold Case

Probably the single most defining feature of the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 reference 226659 is its 42mm case crafted from solid 18k white gold. Not only is this unique because the ref. 226659 is the only 42mm Yacht-Master model, but it also holds the distinction of being the only one that has ever been constructed from white gold. Over the course of the Yacht-Master’s history, it has been created in full 18k yellow gold, Yellow Rolesor (stainless steel and yellow gold), Rolesium (stainless steel and platinum), full 18k Everose gold, and Everose Rolesor (stainless steel and Everose gold). Additionally, there is even a version of the 44mm Yacht-Master II regatta timer that is built from white gold with a platinum bezel, but the reference 226659 is the only iteration of the classic Yacht-Master to be offered in full 18k white gold.

Black Cerachrom Bezel

Just like the 37mm and 40mm Everose gold Rolex Yacht-Master models that are also fitted with Oysterflex bracelets, the Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226659 receives a bidirectional timing bezel with an insert that is crafted from Rolex’s proprietary Cerachrom ceramic material. The black ceramic insert is given a matte-sandblasted texture, with raised graduations that feature a high-polish finish for improved contrast. Despite having both a different case size and being made from different materials, the matte black ceramic insert on the Yacht-Master 42 instantly unites it with the rest of the Oysterflex bracelets Yacht-Master watches in Rolex’s portfolio.

Oysterflex Bracelet

The Rolex Oysterflex bracelet is quite possibly the most over-engineered rubber strap in the world – however, to call it a “rubber strap” is a bit misleading. Rolex specifically refers to it as a bracelet within its catalog because the elastomer strap features a flexible metal core for optimum durability and longevity. Additionally, the underside of the strap features a comfort pad that elevates the strap slightly off the wrist, better distributing the weight of the watch and promoting airflow and breathability.

One of the more interesting details about how Rolex has chosen to structure its catalog is that the Oysterflex bracelet (seemingly the most sporty and least formal option) is exclusively equipped to the brand’s solid gold models. Whether fitted to a Daytona, Sky-Dweller, or Yacht-Master watch, all of the Oysterflex-equipped models are crafted from solid 18k gold (either yellow, white, or Everose). At the time of writing, the Oysterflex bracelet is only found on the full 18k Everose gold Yachtmaster 40 and Yacht-Master 37 watches, along with the 18k white gold Yacht-Master 42.

Rolex Caliber 3235 Movement

Despite being 2mm larger than the current Yacht-Master 40, the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 is powered by the exact same Caliber 3235 movement. Designed and manufactured entirely in-house by Rolex, the Cal. 3235 represents the brand’s latest generation of date-displaying mechanical movements and can be found in a number of other date-displaying Rolex watches, including all-time classics like the Datejust and the Submariner.

The Caliber 3235 movement is based around Rolex’s new Chronergy escapement, which features a skeletonized structure for improved efficiency. When combined with Rolex’s proprietary blue Parachrom hairspring and a redesigned gear train and mainspring barrel, the Caliber 3235 offers users an increased power reserve of 70 hours, which represents a significant step up from the 48-hour reserve offered by its predecessor. Additionally, despite its improved efficiency, the Rolex Cal. 3235 movement adheres to the same incredibly stringent ‘Superlative Chronometer’ precision standards, which permit a maximum timekeeping deviation of -2/+2 seconds per day.

Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Price and Availability

The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 reference 226659 has only been around for a couple of years, so it is still in production and available for purchase from retailers and boutiques. However, as anyone who is familiar with Rolex watches will tell you, finding the model you want brand-new and available for immediate sale is virtually impossible and for many highly popular references, there is no way to buy a brand-new Rolex without spending a significant amount of time on a waiting list. As a result of this lack of availability on a retail level, many buyers turn to the secondary market, where they can add a Rolex Yachtmaster 42 ref. 226659 to their collections without the wait.

How Much is a Rolex Yacht-Master 42?

As of 2021, the retail price for a brand-new Rolex Yacht-Master 42 reference 226659 is $28,900, which represents a $1,600 premium compared to its 40mm Everose gold counterpart. However, due to the fact that the white gold Yacht-Master 42 cannot be purchased at a retail level without being on a waiting list, pre-owned prices exceed their brand-new values and you can expect to pay a premium of several thousand dollars if you wish to skip the line and add one to your collection today.

Where to Buy a Rolex Yacht-Master 42

Since the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226659 is still in production, you can technically still buy it brand-new from Rolex retailers and boutiques – just as long as you are willing to wait out the cue. A similar story exists for most of the popular modern Rolex models; however, compared to the steep premiums that many of the brand’s stainless steel sports watches trade hands for on the open market (which can frequently reach values in excess of 100% above their brand-new retail prices), the comparatively reasonable premium of a few thousand dollars to skip the line for a reference 226659 Yachtmaster 42 means that buyers often opt for a pre-owned example, where availability is immediate and guaranteed.

Rolex Yacht-Master 42: A Modern Luxury Sports Watch

Rolex may have originally built much of its legendary reputation by building tough and reliable sport and tool watches, but the brand’s days as a manufacturer of utilitarian timekeeping devices have long since passed. These days, Rolex is an all-out luxury brand and it is arguably the single most famous luxury label in the entire world. The thought of a military branch supplying its troops with Rolex Submariner watches has become almost comical given that countless people all around the globe are unable to buy a Submariner, despite being more than willing to pay full retail price for one. In fact, the Rolex Submariner is so in-demand that most people are willing to pay far more than the brand-new retail price, just to skip the multi-year waiting list and add one to their collections.

Despite Rolex’s transition towards becoming a luxury manufacturer, it has never stopped producing reliable and finely crafted sports watches. However, the nature of its sports watches has certainly evolved to take on a more luxury-oriented approach, just like the brand’s positioning within the greater watch market. Rolex was producing sports watches back in the 1950s and 1960s and although its products were always considered to be premium timepieces, they were hardly regarded as luxury items, let alone status symbols.

These days, Rolex sports watches are some of the most iconic and desirable luxury timepieces in existence, and wearing one has become a universally recognized symbol of success and personal accomplishment. As a result of the implicit connotations that they carry, modern Rolex sports watches need to do more than just be tough and reliable; they also need to offer a bit of flash and match the opulent and exclusive image of Rolex itself.

The Yacht-Master 42 reference 226659 is the perfect poster-child for the modern Rolex brand. Its monochromatic color profile paired with its matte black ceramic bezel and black Oysterflex bracelet makes the watch inherently casual and sporty, and at first glance, you’d be forgiven for thinking that this was a humble stainless steel model. However, at its core, the Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226659 is a $30k solid gold Rolex. Wearing a Rolex watch has become a universally recognized status symbol, but Rolex is not a brand known for making over-the-top, statement pieces. The white gold Yacht-Master 42 is the perfect statement piece for those that do not want to make a statement, and that is precisely why the reference 226659 is the perfect poster-child for the modern Rolex brand.

About Paul Altieri

Paul Altieri is a vintage and pre-owned Rolex specialist, entrepreneur, and the founder and CEO of BobsWatches.com. - the largest and most trusted name in luxury watches. He is widely considered a pioneer in the industry for bringing transparency and innovation to a once-considered stagnant industry. His experience spans over 35 years and he has been published in numerous publications including Forbes, The NY Times, WatchPro, and Fortune Magazine. Paul is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the watch industry and e-commerce, and regularly engages with other professionals in the industry. He is a member of the IWJG, the AWCI and a graduate of the GIA. Alongside running the premier retailer of pre-owned Rolex watches, Paul is a prominent Rolex watch collector himself amassing one of the largest private collections of rare timepieces. In an interview with the WSJ lifestyle/fashion editor Christina Binkley, Paul opened his vault to display his extensive collection of vintage Rolex Submariners and Daytonas. Paul Altieri is a trusted and recognized authority in the watch industry with a proven track record of expertise, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

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There is big news, and there is Rolex big news, and in some ways, ne'er the twain shall meet. At Baselworld this year, Rolex debuted a first for the company: the very first, ever, Rolex delivered on a rubber strap. Now, for most companies this would have little effect on watch enthusiasts other than to evoke (very) tepid interest at best, and boredom at worst – but this is not an ordinary rubber strap, this is an official, designed-and-tested-and-thoroughly-obsessed-over-by-Rolex rubber strap. And thereby hangs a tale.

The Yachtmaster, as we have mentioned in some of our previous coverage , occupies a somewhat particular place in Rolex’s lineup of sports watches; it shares water-resistance and a turning bezel with the Submariner (the latter is water resistant to 300 m while the Yachtmaster standard model is water resistant to 100 m). It is certainly not a tool watch; the Yachtmaster is offered in either platinum and steel, or gold and steel (that’s Rolesium and Rolesor, lest we forget) and is either quietly or unequivocally luxurious depending on what size and metal you go for (Rolex makes the Yachtmaster in both 35 mm and 40 mm sizes). 

The Yachtmaster’s history goes back to the first introduction of the watch in 1992, although the name, interestingly enough, appears on the dial of a prototype Yachtmaster Chronograph from the late 1960s (a watch so legendary I am actually forced to use the word; one of three known is in the collection of Mr. John Goldberger; we covered it – and a host of other remarkable ultra-rare watches from his collection – in a very memorable episode of Talking Watches ).

The term “Yachtmaster” is also, incidentally, used for a certificate of competency in yachting which is issued by the Royal Yachting Association, although we’re unaware of any specific association between the RYA and the Yachtmaster watch.

Now, this newest version of the Yachtmaster does take a few pages from the existing Yachtmaster playbook: 100-meter water resistance, a bidirectional turning bezel, and a dial and hands that echo the Submariner. There are also a couple of features that may make vintage Sub enthusiasts wonder if Rolex mightn’t have an exceedingly subtle sense of humor; the gilt coronet and “Rolex,” and the red lettering, both features which according to HODINKEE founder Ben Clymer would have, had they appeared on a Rolex dive watch, made it instantly the single most popular watch in the modern Rolex inventory. The case is rose gold – Rolex famously makes their own, called Everose, in their own foundry, with a bit of platinum mixed in to prevent discoloration – and the bezel, rather than being some other precious metal (as is the case in the “standard” Yachtmasters) is in black Cerachrom – a very technical-looking matte black that contrasts sharply with the gold case. Somehow, between the rose gold, the Cerachrom bezel, and the new Oysterflex bracelet this manages to be the most luxurious and at the same time most technical Yachtmaster yet (leaving aside the Yachtmaster II, which we recently reviewed right here , but that is a watch that marches to the beat of a different drummer entirely).

The two different versions of the Everose Yachtmaster (40 mm and 37 mm) sport different movements; the larger uses the caliber 3135 and the smaller, the newer 2236, which sports the “Syloxi” silicon balance spring (first used by Rolex in 2014).

The Oysterflex bracelet is, in a nutshell, quite a piece of work. One of the most endearing traits of Rolex as a company is that it tends to demonstrate what we can only describe as a laudable degree of corporate obsessive-compulsive disorder when it comes to research and development, and it does so, often, without making any sort of fanfare about it at all. In this case we do know a little bit about the Oysterflex, however – it is basically designed to have the hypoallergenic and comfort properties of a rubber strap and the durability and shape-retention properties of a bracelet. 

At the core of the Oysterflex bracelet are metal inserts made of titanium and nickel, which are used to affix the bracelet to the clasp and watch case; over those is a sheathing of “high-performance black elastomer.” “Elastomer” is a portmanteau word, formed from “elastic” and “polymer” and is a general term for natural and synthetic rubbers. In addition to the materials complexity of the Oysterflex bracelet, it is also shaped in a rather unusual fashion – there are ridges molded into the the wristward face of the bracelet, which are intended to allow the bracelet when worn to better approximate the natural curvature of the wrist.

They might look a bit odd but in practice, the design works out quite wonderfully; this is easily the most downright comfortable and organic-feeling rubber strap I have ever worn, and like the entire watch manages to be both extremely technical in feel, and very luxurious at the same time; I doubt whether any company has ever taken so much trouble over the design of a strap (for all that Rolex prefers the term “bracelet” in describing the Oysterflex, habit dies hard and you’ll probably find yourself calling it a strap, just as we did). On the wrist, the two stabilizing ridges do exactly what they are supposed to: keep the watch from shifting, as heavier watches on rubber straps are wont to do, without requiring you to have the strap uncomfortably tight. The Everose Oysterlock clasp does a superb job mechanically and also looks fabulous into the bargain; the quality of finish on the clasp and case may not seem terribly elaborate at first, but it is as technically flawless as anything I have ever seen at any price, on any watch.

What we have here, in other words, is a very Rolex interpretation of luxury. Yes, this is a gold watch, and a gold Rolex, and wearing a gold Rolex always carries with it, shall we say, certain semiotic complexities. However there is also another side to the watch, and to the Rolex approach to luxury in general: the taking of such pains to produce technical perfection that technical perfection becomes a luxury in itself.

The Everose Rolex Yachtmaster, in Rolex Everose, with Everose Oysterclasp and Oysterflex bracelet, as shown, $22,000 in 37 mm, and $24,950 in 40 mm. For more info, check out Rolex.com.

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Could The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Yellow Gold 226658 Be the Best of the Collection?

The luxurious high-end nautical spirit of the 42mm yacht-master shines through in solid yellow gold and sleek black matte touches..

Any Rolex fan worth his or her salt knows that the Submariner is the champion of the dive watch category , a lifelong companion for underwater adventures and your go-to model if you want to hint at a sporty, active lifestyle. However, what if you are looking for a Rolex that can handle more than a splash but hint at the luxury sailing yacht you’ve got docked in the marina? In this case, the Yacht-Master has got you covered, a tooled-down and dressed-up nautical sports watch that has finally detached itself from the sporty Submariner. Marking a first for the 42mm edition of the Yacht-Master, the latest reference introduced at Watches and Wonders 2022 now comes in a yellow gold case. Combined with the black Oysterflex bracelet and the sleek black ceramic insert on the bezel, the elegant Yacht-Master 42 reference 226658 is more in line with the high-end nautical spirit of the collection.

A “Class A” Yacht

Since Hans Wilsdorf introduced the Oyster in 1926, Rolex and waterproof watches have been synonymous. From the iconic Submariner  to professional deep-sea divers like the  Sea-Dweller , the sea and all things maritime are a natural habitat for Rolex’s robust tool watches. Rolex also enjoys a long-standing relationship with the world of sailing and has partnered with select yacht clubs around the world since the early 1950s. As the sponsor of prestigious regattas like the exciting Rolex Fastnet Race, the Crown even developed a watch, the Yacht-Master II, with a specific regatta countdown function for competitive sailors.

The introduction of the Yacht-Master in 1992 surprised and then failed to engage Rolex fans. It certainly looked like a Submariner, but it had been tooled down and dressed up in a solid gold case, characteristics that seemed at odds with the professional dive watch vocation of the Submariner. Although the similarities with the Submariner were evident, the water-resistance of the Yacht-Master was reduced from 300 to 100 metres and the luminous dot was removed from the bezel.

Without the useful regatta countdown function of the Yacht-Master II and its lower water-resistance, the Yacht-Master was positioned as a luxurious nautical watch – and the lifestyle associated with high-end nautical sports – designed to catch the eye of yacht owners, not deckhands or divers.

what’s in a name?

Obviously, the name chosen for the Yacht-Master wasn’t a random choice – nothing is random at Rolex – and clearly speaks to the potential profile of a yacht owner, not a deckhand.

Over the years the Yacht-Master has appeared in a mid-size 35mm men’s version and even a 29mm ladies’ model (1994). Today it exists in three sizes: 42, 40 and 37mm. However, it wasn’t until 1999 that the Yacht-Master really got the wind in its sails with a more contemporary monochrome colour scheme provided by a steel case and platinum Rolesium bezel (ref. 16622) and Oyster bracelet. Then in 2015, the Everose (ref.116655) introduced two major aesthetic updates: the bezel featuring a black ceramic insert and an unexpected black rubber Oysterflex strap introduced on board the Yacht-Master and now used on the Sky-Dweller and Cosmograph Daytona.

The contemporary black rubber strap and the matte ceramic insert were a winning move and clearly demarcated the Yacht-Master as a separate collection. Overnight, the 2015 Yacht-Master looked radically different from its full-metal counterparts, imparting a sleeker, more stylish and more modern vibe. In 2019, the standard 40mm case size for men was joined by a larger 42mm case in white gold , a diameter that differentiated it one step more from the 41mm Submariner Date. The handsome black-tie combination of white gold and matte black Yacht-Master worked well but we think that the latest mix of yellow gold and matte black details works even better.

The reason is simple: white gold can be confused with stainless steel and although the crisp contrast of the white and black is handsome, the yellow gold case broadcasts ‘luxury nautical watch’ with even more conviction.

Yellow gold case

Sharing the same specifications as the white gold model, the latest ref. 226658 differs in just one aspect: its solid 18k yellow gold case. Crafted from a solid block of 18k gold, the middle case is polished and the overall impression is one of elegance. Despite being the largest Yacht-Master, its tapered lugs and relatively slim height mean the watch sits broad and flat on the wrist and works well on smaller wrists (photographed here on Brice’s 16.5mm wrist).

The hallmark bidirectional rotating bezel has a matte black Cerachrom insert with raised and mirror-polished graduations and numerals. Cerachrom, a proprietary material developed and patented by Rolex, is a hard ceramic material that is virtually scratch-proof, corrosion-resistant and impervious to ultraviolet rays meaning it won’t fade over time. The ceramic is sandblasted to give it an attractive grainy texture and a more technical, contemporary finish.

The knurled yellow gold edge means the bezel has a good grip, and the hermetically screwed-down caseback with its fine fluting ensures that only Rolex watchmakers can access the movement. Like all Yacht-Masters, the case is endowed with a Triplock winding crown and the dial protected by a sapphire crystal with a Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock to consult the date.

The black lacquered dial, which reinforces the slick aesthetics of this Rolex Yacht-Master 42, features applied yellow gold hour markers (triangular, round and rectangular) that are treated with Rolex’s own luminescent material known as Chromalight that emits a long-lasting blue glow in the dark. The hallmark Mercedes hour hand, the minute and the central seconds hand with its round counterweight are also crafted in gold with the same luminescent treatment as the hour markers.

Calibre 3235

First introduced in 2015 to replace the long-serving calibre 3135, calibre 3235 is now Rolex’s flagship date-function movement and is protected by no fewer than 14 patents. The most significant innovation is the new Chronergy escapement. Made from anti-magnetic nickel-phosphorous, about half of the robust 70-hour power reserve can be attributed to the newly designed escapement. A Parachrom hairspring fitted on Paraflex shock absorbers, also insensitive to magnetic fields and temperature variations, offers ten times more precision than a traditional hairspring in case of shocks. Calibre 3235 was the first movement to receive Rolex’s own certification as a Superlative Chronometer with a tolerance of just -2/+2 seconds a day (more stringent than COSC).

ThE Great Oysterflex Bracelet

The matte black elastomer strap that has become a distinctive feature of the Yacht-Master replicates the robustness and reliability of a metal bracelet with its hidden infrastructure of flexible and curved metal blades. It is, in our opinion, one of the most comfortable straps on the market today. The Oysterlock folding clasp in 18k yellow gold is fitted with a Glidelock extension system allowing for adjustments of 15mm without tools.

Some identities take longer to forge than others and Rolex is not exactly known for overnight makeovers. After thirty years, the Yacht-Master has finally consolidated its identity and is practically impossible to confuse with a Submariner today. Without a doubt, the black bezel and Oysterflex models create a slicker, smoother and more sophisticated character than the opulent two-tone Oystersteel and Everose gold . And although many will be attracted to the understated black-tie appeal of the white gold ref. 226659, the more dynamic combination of yellow gold and black captures the luxurious nautical spirit of the Yacht-Master perfectly. While I doubt that Rolex is a slave to fashion trends, the rise of yellow gold is undeniable along with the return of the hedonistic fashion and style that ruled the 1980s and 1990s. However, combined with the sandblasted black matte ceramic and the rubber bracelet, the potential for bling is contained and this 226658 conveys a sexy, contemporary attitude.

Availability & Price

The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 reference 226658 in yellow gold retails for  EUR 26,700 . Availability is, as always with the brand, limited. More information at Rolex.com .

Technical specifications – Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Yellow Gold 226658

5 responses.

Thanks for the great in depth article. When it was first released in 2015 I loved it and if I had the funds back then would have bought it. There was a wait list of about 6-12 months which I put my name down and was offered one but still just couldn’t justify the expenditure. It’s still my favourite sports Rolex. I agree with you that if your spending that much the yellow or rose gold version is my preference and prefer 40mm size but to be fair haven’t tried on the 42mm. However It wouldn’t be my daily wear as it’s a bit bold but not as bling as other gold Rolexes due to the matt bezel and rubber strap. Now if only they released a steel version 🙂 but that would be more impossible to get on a wait list. Regards alternatives as all gold Yatchmasters are not obtainable from your AD. These are available and arguably much better made. First the Blancpain Bathyscape at 43mm a tad larger and thicker though. Then there is the superb Glashautte Original SeaQ. I have admired them for sometime but hesitated between the 39.5mm with the not great 40 hr power reserve and a solid back or the larger 43.2 mm which has an exhibition case back and 100 hour power reserve but quite thick. One day a preowned steel 39.5 mm SeaQ became available for a great savings. It took me 5 mins to pull the trigger. I currently own and have owned a lot of sports dive/skin watches and this is my favourite daily wear for som time now. The 39.5 x 12.15 thickness is perfect on my wrist and the finish is just superb. The power reserve is no big deal as it’s worn continuously. PS they have just released a 39.5 mm rose gold version with an exhibition case back. Glashutte also offer excellent strap options.

When I bought a Yacht-Master (40 mm, with a platinum white dial) around 2009, I was still trying out the Daytona and Submariner with a green bezel. Finally, the choice fell on a watch with platinum. Those were beautiful times!

I really like the look, but I can’t mentally justify the increased price over other rolex watches, like the 126622 at $12k. Over $14k more for a more expensive gold case, but cheaper rubber strap and ceramic bezel?

I think people should stop reviewing Rolex watches since these are available for public anymore.

My grandpa would like it.

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Exploring the luxurious world of the Rolex Yacht-Master

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The Rolex Yacht-Master is one of the signature models of the esteemed Rolex family. It is an embodiment of sophistication and luxury that is appreciated worldwide. This exquisite accessory, recognisable even by those with limited knowledge of fine watches, has built a legacy over the centuries as a symbol of opulence and prestige. Today, we will delve deeper into this extraordinary timepiece. Let’s explore Yacht-Master’s rich history, distinctive features, and intricate details that set it apart from other luxury watches.

History of the Rolex Yacht-Master

The Rolex Yacht-Master made its debut in 1992. Rolex has a deep-rooted connection to sailing and maritime adventure. This was the very inspiration of the Yacht-Master. It was initially designed for professional sailors and yachting enthusiasts alike. The Yacht-Master combined Rolex’s renowned precision and durability with a distinctive, nautical-inspired aesthetic that quickly set it apart.

The first model, crafted in 18k yellow gold, featured a bold, rotatable bezel and a sleek, legible dial, capturing the essence of the sea. Over the years, the Yacht-Master has evolved. Rolex has introduced new materials such as Rolesium, a unique blend of stainless steel and platinum, and Everose gold, alongside innovative features like the Oysterflex bracelet and advanced chronograph movements. Each iteration has refined Yacht-Master’s design and functionality, making it more appealing both on deck and onshore. Today, the Yacht-Master stands as a symbol of nautical elegance and performance, embodying the adventurous spirit, precision craftsmanship, and timeless luxury that define the Rolex brand. For more information, you can continue reading about Rolex’s history .

Design and craftsmanship

The Rolex Yacht-Master boasts several distinctive features that set it apart as a luxury timepiece of exceptional craftsmanship and design. One of its hallmark characteristics is its robust construction, ensuring durability even in the harshest marine environments. The Yacht-Master’s rotatable bezel, often crafted from precious metals like platinum or gold, serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. It allows wearers to measure elapsed time and adds a touch of sophistication to the watch’s appearance. Additionally, the Yacht-Master’s dial is designed for optimal legibility, with luminous markers and hands ensuring clear timekeeping in any lighting conditions. The Yacht-Master often incorporates luxurious materials such as Rolesium, a combination of stainless steel and platinum, or Everose gold. If you want to learn more about Yacht-Master features , you will find all the necessary information here.

Technological innovations

The Rolex Yacht-Master is renowned for its technological innovations. It proves Rolex’s dedication to creative thinking. This exceptional timepiece is equipped with advanced movements like the calibre 3135 and 3235, ensuring unparalleled precision and reliability. Its innovative Oysterflex bracelet combines the flexibility and comfort of elastomer with the robustness and durability of a metal bracelet. The Yacht-Master’s rotatable bezel, crafted from precious materials, enhances its aesthetic appeal and provides functional utility for timing nautical events.

The rolex yacht-master in popular culture

Today, the Rolex Yacht-Master has transcended its maritime origins to become a favourite accessory among celebrities and successful individuals across various industries. Its popularity is fueled by a combination of its distinctive, elegant design and the unparalleled prestige associated with the Rolex brand. Celebrities from Hollywood to the sports world are frequently spotted wearing the Yacht-Master, cementing its status as a symbol of success and sophistication. Its versatility, luxurious materials, and association with high performance and exclusivity make it a sought-after piece for anyone looking to make a statement.

Final thoughts

The Rolex Yacht-Master represents the pinnacle of luxury and nautical excellence. From its rich history and evolution to its distinctive design and widespread popularity, the Yacht-Master continues to captivate watch enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide. This extraordinary timepiece embodies the sea’s adventurous spirit and stands as a testament to Rolex’s unwavering commitment to precision and craftsmanship. The Yacht-Master is more than just a watch – it’s a symbol of success, sophistication, and enduring legacy.

The editorial unit

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Deep confidence

Beneath the surface.

Launched in 1953, the Rolex Submariner is the first divers’ wristwatch to be waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet) – now 300 metres (1,000 feet). Its major features, such as the graduated rotatable bezel, the luminescent display, the large hands and hour markers, have been a driving force in the creation of the long line of Rolex divers’ watches which followed.

The Submariner is an iconic timepiece whose renown now extends beyond the professional world it was first designed for. The Submariner, the ultimate standard.

A true divers’ watch by design

As an underwater survival tool, this watch’s design has been entirely dictated by the practical needs of divers. Since 1953, the Submariner has evolved technically and aesthetically as it has been endowed with features to improve overall functionality. The first watch was a pioneer and its subsequent versions have continued to set the benchmark for divers’ watches.

Monitor diving time

The Submariner’s unidirectional rotatable bezel is key to the functionality of the watch. Its engraved 60-minute graduation allows divers to monitor their time underwater. Manufactured by Rolex from a hard, corrosion-resistant ceramic, the Cerachrom bezel insert is virtually scratchproof and its colour is unaffected by ultraviolet rays, seawater or water that is chlorinated. In addition, thanks to its chemical composition, the high-tech ceramic is inert and cannot corrode.

The Submariner’s unidirectional rotatable bezel has knurled edges that offer excellent grip when setting the dive time, even when wearing gloves. It rotates notch by notch, accompanied by distinctive clicks.

Triple waterproofness system

The Submariner’s Oyster case, guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 300 metres (1,000 feet), provides the movement with optimal protection from water and dust. The Triplock winding crown – fitted with a triple waterproofness system – screws down securely against the case, ensuring watertight security.

Chromalight display

The Chromalight display is an innovation that improves visibility in dark environments, an essential feature for divers. An innovative luminescent material emitting a blue glow is applied to the hands, hour markers and the capsule on the bezel.

Hour markers in simple shapes – triangle, circle, rectangle – and broad hour and minute hands enable instant and reliable reading to prevent any risk of confusion underwater.

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Oyster, 41 mm, Oystersteel