The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master (Reference 116655) introduced in 2015, features a black dial and the Calibre 3135 automatic movement in a 40mm case in 18K Everose gold. The black ceramic bezel has matt black Cerachrom inserts. Two versions are available: one in 40mm and the other in 37mm (Reference 268655). Shown above is the 40mm model and it is priced at CHF23,800. Photo: © TANG Portfolio. Elfa / Timmy. 2015 BaselWorld

At the annual BaselWorld watch fair in March 2015, the Rolex Yacht-Master collection added another family member – one in a new black and Everose gold.

The Rolex Yacht-Master story began in 1992 and it was known as the “sailors’ watch”. The early model, the ref. 16628, water-resistant to 100 metres, was in yellow gold and was powered by the Calibre 3135 automatic movement.

For the 2015 Yacht-Master piece, what is prominent is the bi-directional rotating bezel featuring the matt black Cerachrom insert in black ceramic paired with its matching black dial, which is said to be a first for this model.

Take note of the numerals and graduations on the bezel are raised and are polished, offering high legibility.

This Yacht-Master model takes on its own identity with the high contrast thanks to the black bezel and dial on the 18K Everose gold case.

There are two variations of the 2015 Yacht-Master: the 40mm diameter version (Reference 116655) housing the Calibre 3135 automatic movement and the 37mm model (Reference 268655) with the Calibre 2236 automatic movement.

The 2015 Yacht-Master has a bi-directional rotating bezel featuring the matt black Cerachrom insert paired with a matching black dial that is said to be a first for this model. Photo: © TANG Portfolio. Elfa / Timmy. 2015 BaselWorld

 

 

Another key highlight is what most would call the “rubber strap” in layman terms. However, this is what Rolex describes as a new Oysterflex bracelet that comprises a flexible titanium and nickel alloy metal blade that is overmoulded with black elastomer.

Though it looks like a regular rubber strap, this bracelet with elastomer over metal, offers resistance that is comparable to that of a metal bracelet.

A better fit is also offered because of a patented longitudinal cushion system patented by Rolex that holds the watch more comfortably to the wrist. The bracelet is complemented with an 18K gold Everose Oysterlock safety clasp.

The 2015 Yacht-Master has a bi-directional rotating bezel featuring the matt black Cerachrom insert paired with a matching black dial that is said to be a first for this model. Photo: © TANG Portfolio. Elfa / Timmy. 2015 BaselWorld

This bracelet feature is yet another show how high the “black belt” mastery Rolex has in innovative and technical solutions for wristwatches.