Description
The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Ref. 226659 is a sophisticated interpretation of Rolex’s luxury nautical sports watch, combining precious-metal construction with the contemporary character of the Oysterflex bracelet. Introduced as the first Yacht-Master with a 42mm case, the reference delivers substantial wrist presence while maintaining a remarkably understated appearance for an 18ct gold Rolex.
The 42mm Oyster case is manufactured entirely from Rolex’s proprietary 18ct white gold. Its restrained appearance allows the precious-metal construction to remain discreet, while the polished case sides and beautifully finished surfaces provide the level of refinement expected from the Yacht-Master collection.
The black dial creates a striking monochromatic aesthetic and features large Chromalight hour markers and hands for excellent legibility. A date display is positioned at 3 o’clock beneath Rolex’s signature Cyclops magnifying lens, maintaining the clean and highly functional layout of the Yacht-Master.
One of the defining features is the bidirectional 60-minute graduated bezel. Manufactured from 18ct white gold, it is fitted with a matt black Cerachrom ceramic insert featuring raised, polished numerals and graduations. Unlike the unidirectional bezel of Rolex’s professional dive watches, the Yacht-Master’s bidirectional bezel is designed primarily for measuring elapsed sailing and navigation intervals.
Powering the Ref. 226659 is the Rolex Manufacture Calibre 3235, a self-winding mechanical movement offering approximately 70 hours of power reserve. It incorporates Rolex’s Chronergy escapement, Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers and carries Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer certification.
The watch is fitted to Rolex’s innovative black Oysterflex bracelet. Beneath its high-performance elastomer exterior are flexible metal blades, combining the security and durability of a traditional bracelet with the comfort and sporting appearance of a rubber strap. The 18ct white-gold Oysterlock clasp incorporates Rolex’s Glidelock extension system, allowing precise adjustment without tools.
Its screw-down Triplock crown and Oyster case provide water resistance to 100 metres, giving the Yacht-Master genuine sporting capability while maintaining the more luxurious positioning that distinguishes it from the Submariner.
With its 42mm 18ct white-gold case, black dial, matt black ceramic bezel and Oysterflex bracelet, the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Ref. 226659 is one of the most discreet precious-metal sports watches in the Rolex collection. Its combination of substantial gold construction, contemporary monochromatic styling and everyday versatility gives it a distinctive appeal for collectors who appreciate a luxury Rolex without the overt appearance traditionally associated with a full-gold sports model.
Functions: Hour, Minute, Second, Date. This pre-owned luxury Rolex Yacht-Master 42 has been referenced against technical documents and manufacturer records to ensure authenticity and a clean history. This Rolex is in mint condition and comes with its original Rolex box and papers. Covered by 12-month Grand Timepiece warranty. Condition: Mint. Style: Luxury Model: 226659 Photos of the actual watch!
Accompanying your purchase is a tax invoice and a valuation certificate for Insurance purposes. All our products have full provenance and will be accompanied by their original box and papers where possible or service papers by the Brand itself. Our watches are sold with a 12 Months Warranty or alternatively the balance of manufacturer’s warranty where applicable. We have been selling pre-owned luxury timepieces since 2015 and do all our due diligence to ensure the timepieces are authentic and have a clean history.
