Rolex Yacht-Master 40
Reference 116621
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 40 is a modern reflection of the strong ties between Rolex and the world of sailing that stretch back to the 1950s.
The Yacht-Master 40 is what Rolex refers to as an Oyster Professional model, meaning that it is part of a series of watches Rolex started specifically designing for professional use in 1953 first with the Explorer and Submariner models. The Yacht-Master, the only Rolex Oyster Professional model available in two size variants of 37 and 40 millimeters, come equipped with the iconic professional handset, a long-lasting Chromalight luminescent display and a uni-directional rotating bezel.
Although the Submariner unquestionably is the model that most often springs to mind when one thinks about Rolex sports watches, the Yacht-Master, once held in the hand and tried on in our boutique, will certainly show its true self. If anything, the Yacht-Master 40 is a subtly, albeit noticeably more casual take on the aesthetic perpetuated by the famed Submariner.
On this particular piece, reference 116621, the Rolesor combination of 904L stainless steel and Rolex’s very own 18ct Everose rose gold make for a truly stunning look. The bezel, also crafted from solid 18ct Everose gold, along with the Everose gold center links in the Oyster bracelet make for a rather more smart, and perhaps a bit less performance-focused look. The Oyster bracelet also features the Oysterlock safety clasp that comes equipped with an Easylink integrated 5mm comfort extension link to allow the wearer to make just enough adjustments to achieve a perfect fit throughout the day.
What one has to see in person is the way how the warmth of Everose combines with the deep, neutral sheen of 904L steel, making for a Rolesor “two-tone” appearance that works rather brilliantly against most skin tones. If the Submariner is the ultimate tool you can wear everyday, then the Yacht-Master is the ultimate among more casually styled watches.
Seen here with a Chocolate dial, the Yacht-Master 40 Rolesor Everose is also available with a black dial for a rather more menacing look. While the Chocolate dial was designed to work in perfect harmony with the Everose case elements, the black dial contrasts strongly against the 18ct Everose gold hands and indices.
The sporty touch of red in the Yacht-Master text above the 6 o’clock index serves as a due reminder of Rolex’s strong ties with sailing, while the text underneath serves as a testament to the Yacht-Master 40 being a Rolex Superlative Chronometer, meaning that Rolex has excessively tested every single timepiece for their remarkably stringent -2/+2 second daily accuracy tolerance, as well as their power reserve, automatic winding efficiency, power reserve performance and water resistance. The Rolex 3135 caliber inside the Yacht-Master 40 is also a certified chronometer, rigorously tested by the independent Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).
Wrapped into an outstanding combination of 904L stainless steel and Rolex’s proprietary 18ct Everose rose gold, the Yacht-Master 40 has received an absolutely fantastic, refreshing and casual new look that is best appreciated when judged in person.
