Rolex introduced a new version of the Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42 made, for the first time, in RLX titanium. Price €14,150/$14,050
RLX titanium is a Grade 5 titanium alloy specially selected by Rolex. Like all titanium alloys, it is especially lightweight and is noted for its mechanical strength and corrosion resistance. Its high mechanical strength makes it complex to work with, and the decision to use it has required the introduction of special production processes.
The new model stands out for its technical satin finish – a satin finish with a visible grain, a feature of Rolex watches in RLX titanium – which extends to the middle case sides, the edges of the bracelet links and the sides of the clasp cover. The chamfered top edges of the middle case lugs have a high-sheen finish, while the crown guard is polished.
The 42 mm x 11.60 mm is equipped with a bidirectional rotatable bezel enhanced by a Cerachrom insert in matt black ceramic characterised by raised and polished numerals and graduations, in line with the aesthetics of the white gold model unveiled in 2019.
Not only virtually scratchproof, ceramic is particular resistant to environmental effects. In addition, thanks to its chemical composition, the high-tech ceramic is inert and cannot corrode.
The intense black dial in a fine satin finish is protected by a crystal made of virtually scratchproof sapphire with anti-reflective coating and a Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock for easy reading of the date.
The broad hands and hour markers in simple shapes – triangles, circles, rectangles – are filled with the Chromalight luminescent material emitting a long-lasting blue glow.
The new version of the Yacht-Master 42 is equipped with calibre 3235, a self-winding 4 Hz movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex that was released in 2015 and has been fitted on this model since its launch in 2019.
Calibre 3235 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 also 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. The oscillator is mounted on the Rolex-designed, patented high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers, increasing the movement’s shock resistance.
Thanks to its barrel architecture and the escapement’s superior efficiency, its power reserve extends to approximately 70 hours.
The Oyster bracelet of this new version of the Yacht-Master 42 features the Oysterlock folding safety clasp, which prevents accidental opening. It is also equipped with the Easylink comfort extension link, developed by Rolex, which allows the wearer to easily adjust the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm. The lugs width is 21 mm.
Waterproof to a depth of 100 metres / 330 feet, the watch carries the Superlative Chronometer certification, which ensures a precision in the order of −2/+2 seconds per day – a rate deviation for a finished watch which is significantly smaller than that accepted by COSC for official certification of the movement alone.
The new Rolex Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226627 has a suggested retail price of Euro 14,150 / US$ 14,050. rolex.com
COMMENTS