Introduced in 1992, the Rolex Yacht-Master quickly established itself as a sophisticated timepiece for those with a passion for the sea. However, it was the arrival of the Rolex Yacht-Master 116622 in 2012 that truly cemented its place as a highly desirable and collectible luxury sports watch. This review will delve deep into the features, design, performance, and overall appeal of the 116622, comparing it to its successor, the 126622, and exploring its position within the broader Yacht-Master collection.
The 116622 represents a significant evolution in the Yacht-Master line. While earlier iterations focused primarily on functionality, the 116622 brought a refined elegance and a more pronounced sense of luxury. This is immediately apparent in its 40mm Oyster case, crafted from Rolex's proprietary Oystersteel. This robust stainless steel alloy offers exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion, crucial for a watch designed for use in demanding environments. The satin-brushed finish of the case adds a subtle sophistication, complementing the polished surfaces of the bezel and crown. The Oyster architecture, renowned for its water resistance (up to 100 meters), ensures the watch remains reliable even under pressure.
One of the most striking features of the 116622 is its bidirectional rotatable bezel with a polished ceramic insert. This black Cerachrom bezel is incredibly scratch-resistant and boasts crisp, legible graduations, making it highly functional for timing regattas or other nautical activities. The ceramic’s inherent resistance to fading ensures the bezel maintains its pristine appearance over time, unlike earlier models with aluminum bezels which were prone to fading and scratching. The subtle interplay of light and shadow on the polished surfaces of the bezel adds a layer of visual depth to the watch, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.
The dial of the 116622 typically features a clean, uncluttered design, reflecting Rolex's commitment to legibility and functionality. The hands and hour markers are generously sized and filled with Chromalight luminescent material, ensuring excellent readability in low-light conditions. The date window at 3 o'clock is seamlessly integrated into the dial, maintaining the watch's overall balanced aesthetic. While various dial colors have been available over the years, the black dial remains a classic and popular choice, perfectly complementing the black Cerachrom bezel.
current url：https://dxpund.e518c.com/products/rolex-yachtmaster-116622-review-3272
omega seamaster planet ocean blue gmt givenchy prisme blush 03 spice