rolex 116622 platinum dial | Rolex yacht master 116622 review

The Rolex 116622 with its captivating platinum dial holds a special place within the prestigious Rolex Yacht-Master collection. It's a watch that seamlessly blends luxury with a sporty aesthetic, a testament to Rolex's dedication to both form and function. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the Rolex 116622 Platinum Dial, covering its design, features, variations, market value, and comparisons to other Yacht-Master models, specifically the newer 126622. We'll also address common questions surrounding this iconic timepiece.

A Legacy of Nautical Excellence: The Yacht-Master Lineage

Before diving into the specifics of the 116622, it's essential to understand the Yacht-Master's heritage. Introduced in 1992, the Yacht-Master was conceived as a luxurious alternative to the Submariner, catering to those with an affinity for sailing and a desire for a more refined sports watch. Unlike the Submariner's purely utilitarian focus, the Yacht-Master prioritized elegance and comfort, utilizing precious metals and featuring a distinctive rotating bezel with polished, raised numerals.

The 116622, specifically, represents a significant iteration within the Yacht-Master family. Released in the early 2010s, it quickly became a favorite due to its striking platinum dial and robust construction. It embodied the Yacht-Master's spirit of nautical adventure with a touch of understated sophistication.

The Allure of Platinum: Dial and Bezel Elegance

The defining feature of the Rolex 116622 is undoubtedly its stunning platinum dial. The silvery-white hue of the platinum provides a unique and luxurious aesthetic, offering a subtle sheen that differentiates it from stainless steel. The dial's brushed finish catches the light beautifully, creating a dynamic visual experience that shifts with the angle.

The dial features applied hour markers crafted from 18ct white gold, ensuring long-lasting brilliance and preventing tarnishing. These markers are filled with Chromalight luminescent material, providing excellent legibility in low-light conditions. The iconic Mercedes hands, also crafted from white gold and filled with Chromalight, further enhance readability. The red seconds hand adds a subtle pop of color, breaking up the monochromatic palette and adding a touch of sportiness.

Complementing the platinum dial is the 950 platinum bidirectional rotating bezel. This bezel is a signature element of the Yacht-Master, featuring polished, raised numerals against a sandblasted background. This contrast enhances legibility and provides a tactile grip for easy rotation. The bezel allows the wearer to track elapsed time, a useful function for sailing and other activities.

Case and Bracelet: Oystersteel Strength and Comfort

While the dial and bezel showcase the luxury of platinum, the case and bracelet of the 116622 are crafted from 904L Oystersteel. This high-performance alloy is renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance, durability, and ability to maintain its luster over time. Rolex chose Oystersteel not only for its strength but also for its hypoallergenic properties, ensuring comfort for wearers with sensitive skin.

The 40mm case size is considered a sweet spot for many wrist sizes, offering a balanced and comfortable fit. Its proportions are both sporty and elegant, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions. The case is equipped with a Twinlock winding crown, providing excellent water resistance up to 100 meters (330 feet).

The Oyster bracelet, synonymous with Rolex, is a testament to engineering excellence. Its three-piece link design provides a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist. The bracelet features an Oysterlock folding clasp, preventing accidental opening. The Easylink comfort extension system allows the wearer to easily adjust the bracelet length by approximately 5mm, providing optimal comfort in varying conditions.

The Heart of the Matter: Caliber 3135 Movement

The Rolex 116622 is powered by the Caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. This movement is a cornerstone of Rolex's engineering prowess, known for its reliability, precision, and robustness. The Caliber 3135 is a COSC-certified chronometer, meaning it has undergone rigorous testing to ensure accuracy within a stringent range of -4/+6 seconds per day.rolex 116622 platinum dial

The movement features a Parachrom hairspring, made from a paramagnetic alloy that is highly resistant to magnetic fields and temperature variations. This ensures greater accuracy and stability, even in challenging environments. The Caliber 3135 also boasts a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.

Rolex 116622 Review: A Summary of Key Features

* Case Material: 904L Oystersteel

* Bezel Material: 950 Platinum, bidirectional rotating with raised numerals

* Dial Material: Platinum, brushed finish

* Movement: Rolex Caliber 3135, self-winding mechanical

* Diameter: 40mm

* Water Resistance: 100 meters (330 feet)

* Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire

* Bracelet: Oyster bracelet in 904L Oystersteel with Oysterlock clasp and Easylink comfort extension