MTR shares his unexpected seduction by the Rolex Yacht-Master Rolesium reference 16622, a watch that wasn't initially on his radar. His post captures the emotional journey of discovering a timepiece that 'screams' to him, contrasting it with other popular Rolex models and seeking community input on its long-term appeal.

Dear watch-friends, after a successful business deal in July I decided to reward myself with a new Rolex.
My good resolution to enjoy watches on this beloved forum just āplatonicā from first row remaining firm and not becoming weak somehow has evaporated in āthinnest airā. š
First of all I have to say that I am a big fan of modern watches and their movement innovations. So for example I highly appreciate the new 3255 movementās reliability and accuracy and technical innovations (14 patents!) - like in my heavily worn DD 40.
Yesterday I visited one of my ADs. After having the chance to try the new GMT Master II āRootbeerā (which I highly appreciate) in steel/RG and and also in full RG (both with the new movement 3285) a few days ago today I had a closer look at the new Skydweller in steel with black dial (caliber 9001). And I got the chance to put at a very nice Submariner blue dial TT on my wrist, which sang very loud to me (Ref. 116613LB).
So I after I have tried them all my first choice would be the GMT Root Beer Everose or the blue Sub.
And then - in order not to miss something - I asked for āsomething specialā. The AD was obedient and showed me - at least for me - āsomething specialā: the Yacht-Master Rolesium reference 16622 with Platin dial and bezel. He had a preowned and also a completely unworn model in stock.
I have to confess that the Rolex Yacht-Master has always been under my shopping radar. I have always been curious to see the 16622 Rolesium version in flesh since I have read so many interesting posts on this forum about this watch (thanks to Nico and Jockeās ādissecting and tuning postā 5 years ago!!). And I also like the freshness of the new blue dial version. But I never had any version of the Yacht-Master on my concrete wish list.
What shall I say? This Yacht-Master with its fantastic sparkling platinum dial with traces of red was love at first sight. I love everything about this watch. Its stealthy elegance and fantastic comfort to wear. It has a kind of monolithic appearance. And due to its special shape (more curved lugs) it really ⦠clings to my wrist.
I tried the preowned model on my wrist and just had a short look at the new sibling.
According to AD the ānewā Yacht-Master is a completely unworn safe queen and was produced in 2013. AD says itās one of the latest produced models.
My question to you: how long was this model produced?
I canāt get it out of my mind since I saw it yesterday.
Ok, it isnāt equipped with the newest movement but has got the very reliable and proved caliber 3135.
So the whole watch sings to me very loud. No, it screams to me: get me! I belong to you!
What do you think? Will this be a long term love affair?
All the best, Thomas
About the Rolex Bubble Back Ref. 3135
The Rolex Yacht-Master reference 126655 is a contemporary expression within the brand's nautical-inspired sports watch collection. Positioned as a luxury sports timepiece, it combines robust construction with refined aesthetics, distinguishing itself from the more utilitarian professional models. This reference is notable for its use of Everose gold, Rolex's proprietary pink gold alloy, paired with a matte black ceramic bezel and a matching matte black dial.
This 40mm model is equipped with the self-winding caliber 3235, a chronometer-certified movement featuring a Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers, offering enhanced precision and resistance to shocks and temperature variations. The case is crafted from Everose gold, complemented by a bidirectional rotatable bezel with a raised 60-minute graduation. It is fitted with the innovative Oysterflex bracelet, which consists of flexible metal blades overmoulded with high-performance elastomer, secured by an Oysterlock safety clasp with the Glidelock extension system.
The 126655 holds relevance for collectors seeking a Rolex sports watch that balances functionality with a distinct luxury appeal. Its combination of Everose gold, matte black elements, and the Oysterflex bracelet provides a unique aesthetic and wearing experience, setting it apart from other gold sports watches in the Rolex catalog. The inclusion of the Glidelock system on the Oysterflex further enhances its practical wearability.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 3235
- Case
- Everose Gold
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Matte Black
- Water Resist.
- 100 meters
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 116613
The Rolex Submariner Date reference 116613 is a two-tone variant of the brand's well-known dive watch, combining Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold. This reference is part of the modern Submariner generation, characterized by its updated case proportions and ceramic bezel insert. It offers a more luxurious aesthetic compared to its all-steel counterparts, while retaining the robust construction and technical capabilities expected of the model line. It represents a blend of utility and precious metal appeal within the Rolex catalog.
This reference features a 40mm Oyster case crafted from a combination of Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold. The watch is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement known for its precision and reliability. It offers a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, protecting a dial that is typically available in black or blue, complemented by luminous hour markers and hands.
For collectors, the 116613 offers a distinct option within the Submariner Date family, appealing to those who appreciate the durability of steel paired with the warmth of gold. Its two-tone construction provides a versatile appearance, suitable for various occasions. This reference maintains the core design elements of the Submariner, including the unidirectional rotating bezel and Oyster bracelet, making it a recognizable and functional timepiece.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 3135
- Case
- Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Black or Blue
- Water Resist.
- 300m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126711CHNR
The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 126711CHNR, introduced in 2018, represents a significant addition to the contemporary GMT-Master II collection. This reference is notable for its "Root Beer" aesthetic, combining Oystersteel and Everose gold, a combination that distinguishes it from full steel or full gold variants. It offers a modern interpretation of a classic color scheme, appealing to collectors who appreciate a blend of robust utility and luxurious materials within the GMT-Master II lineage.
This model features a 40 mm Oyster case crafted from a combination of Oystersteel and Everose gold, ensuring durability and a distinctive visual appeal. It is equipped with the Caliber 3285, an automatic movement developed by Rolex, which provides a substantial power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, enhancing its resistance to scratches, and is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for various activities.
The 126711CHNR appeals to collectors seeking a GMT-Master II that offers both functionality and a unique material and color palette. Its Everose gold and Oystersteel construction, paired with the brown and black Cerachrom bezel, provides a warm and sophisticated appearance. This reference stands as a modern successor to earlier bi-color GMT models, maintaining the dual-time zone complication while incorporating contemporary materials and movement technology.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 3285
- Case
- Oystersteel and Everose gold
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 100m (330 feet)
- Crystal
- Sapphire