The Yacht-Master 42 is one of the most underrated white gold Rolexes. While the precious metal Daytonas and Day-Dates get the attention, the YM42 sits quietly as the only solid precious-metal Rolex sport watch on Oysterflex below the Sky-Dweller pricing tier. The case head feels like the watch it is, and the rubber strap is what makes it daily-wearable in the first place.
This one is the reference 226659 in solid 18k white gold with the matte black dial, luminous applied markers, and the bidirectional ceramic Cerachrom bezel with raised polished numerals. Fitted to the original Oysterflex with the titanium spring blade core inside. The white gold doesn’t shout the way yellow or rose does — from across a room it reads as steel, until you pick it up and your wrist tells you otherwise.
Inside is the calibre 3235, the same modern Rolex self-winding movement that runs the Submariner and Datejust 41 — 70-hour power reserve, Chronergy escapement, Superlative Chronometer certified. 100 metres water resistance, screw-down crown, sapphire crystal. Standard modern Rolex spec, which means it does exactly what it needs to do without ever needing thought.
This example is dated 2023 in excellent condition, full set with the original Rolex box, papers and booklets. Carries the new five-year Rolex manufacturer warranty through to 2028. At $39,900 for a 2023 full-set white gold YM42 with active factory coverage, this is the right entry into precious metal Rolex sport. Viewings by appointment, Sydney CBD.
Price: $39,900 AUD
Condition: Excellent — full set with box, papers, booklets. Rolex warranty until 2028
Reference: 226659 (2023, 42mm 18k white gold, Oysterflex)
Enquiries by appointment — Sydney CBD.