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.
Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42
The combination of polished, high-gloss and engineered satin finishes exemplifies the brand’s mastery of finishing techniques. Together, they create a delicate blend of texture and light, the sparkling polished surface of the crown guard and the shine of the top edges of the lugs is radiant. In contrast, the matte surface created using a satin finishing technique – with distinct graining – is visible on the Oyster case and bracelet. The bracelet is equipped with a 5mm Rolex Easylink 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.