A Closer Look at the Midsize Stainless Steel and Platinum Yacht Master
In the 1990s, Rolex unveiled a nautical-inspired timepiece they named the Yacht Master. Emphasizing the company’s affiliation with sailing lifestyle, the Yacht Master quickly became one of the brand’s most popular and most diverse collections. The midsize stainless steel and platinum Yacht Master ref. 168622 is an appealing model in the Rolex catalog for several reasons. Firstly, it combines two materials on different ends of the preciousness spectrum. Secondly, it sports a size that’s ideal for both men and women, hence its midsize label. Thirdly, as with all modern Rolex sports watches, it’s robust and technically sound, yet is unapologetically luxurious. Let’s take a closer look at the midsize stainless steel and platinum Yacht Master.
What is Rolesium?
When Rolex brings together rugged stainless steel and lavish platinum on a watch, they call it Rolesium. Rolesium made its debut in 1999 on three Yacht Master models—a men’s size, a women’s size, and a midsize version. Given the nature of steel and platinum—one is ubiquitous and affordable while the other precious and rare—these two metals are infrequently seen together on the same piece. In fact, in the Rolex lineup, the Yacht Master is the only collection that offers Rolesium models.
Combining these two metals may seem questionable at first since they are quite similar in color. However, Rolex cleverly makes a distinction between the two materials by sandblasting the platinum on the bezel and the dial. Therefore, the Rolesium’s look is centered on differences in texture rather than color contrasts.
The Design Details of the Midsize Stainless Steel and Platinum Yacht Master
The midsize stainless steel and platinum Yacht-Master ref. 168622 sports a 35mm Oyster case, which suits either a man’s or woman’s wrist. As with all Rolesium Yacht-Master watches, the midsize version boasts a platinum bidirectional rotating bezel that features raised numerals rather than an insert—a style unique to the Yacht-Master collection.
The sandblasted dial, a.k.a the platinum dust dial, captures the light beautifully and sets the stage for the round lume plots, luminescent Mercedes-style hands, and red lollipop seconds hand. There’s also the date window at 3 o’clock, magnified by the Cylops lens affixed onto the sapphire crystal.
Its Oyster bracelet is entirely in stainless steel, yet also offers a contrast in texture thanks to the brushed steel links framing the polished center links. Securing the bracelet is the Fliplock clasp with the famous Rolex coronet.
The Functionality of the Midsize Stainless Steel and Platinum Yacht Master
Encased within the midsize stainless steel and platinum Yacht-Master ref. 168622 is the in-house Rolex Cal. 2235 automatic mechanical movement. Operating at 28,800bph, the COSC-certified Caliber 2235 offers 48 hours of power reserve, as well as, the quickset date function.
Seeing as the Yacht-Master was built to accompany those who enjoy the open seas, the watch is equipped with the Triplock screw-down winding crown to keep the water out. Moreover, with its water resistance to 330 feet, the Yacht-Master can safely go for a swim anytime.
The epitome of casual chic, the Rolex Yacht-Master ref. 168622 is a luxury sports watch not to miss. Whether worn by him or her, the midsize stainless steel and platinum Yacht-Master will always turn heads wherever it goes.
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