The Rolex Yacht-Master, particularly the reference 116655 in steel from 2014, represents a compelling blend of robust functionality and understated elegance. This article will delve deep into this specific model, exploring its history, design features, market value, and how it compares to its successors. We'll also examine where to find pre-owned examples and discuss the overall buying experience. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a prospective buyer considering your first luxury timepiece, understanding the nuances of the Rolex 116655 will prove invaluable.
A Legacy of Nautical Precision:
The Yacht-Master collection, introduced in 1992, was conceived as a tool watch specifically designed for the demands of sailing. Unlike the more overtly sporty Submariner or Sea-Dweller, the Yacht-Master aimed for a sophisticated blend of functionality and luxury, appealing to a clientele who appreciated both performance and refined aesthetics. The reference 116655, with its 40mm Oyster case in stainless steel, perfectly embodies this philosophy. Released around 2014, this particular iteration represents a significant point in the Yacht-Master's evolution, showcasing a refined design language that would influence subsequent models.
Design Elements and Key Features:
The 116665's allure lies in its subtle details. The 40mm Oyster case, crafted from 904L stainless steel, is renowned for its exceptional resistance to corrosion and scratches. This robust construction is a hallmark of Rolex, ensuring the watch can withstand the rigors of daily wear. The unidirectional rotatable bezel, a crucial element for timing regattas, features a polished ceramic insert. This ceramic bezel boasts exceptional scratch resistance and a deep, lustrous black color that contrasts beautifully with the stainless steel case.
The dial, typically black, offers excellent legibility thanks to its clear markers and hands filled with Chromalight luminescence. This ensures readability even in low-light conditions, a vital feature for a watch designed for nautical use. The date window at 3 o'clock is seamlessly integrated into the design, maintaining the overall balance and elegance. The Oyster bracelet, with its solid links and comfortable clasp, is another defining feature. It provides a secure and comfortable fit, even during prolonged wear.
The heart of the 116655 beats the calibre 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. This movement is renowned for its robustness, precision, and reliability. Its accuracy is meticulously regulated, ensuring the timepiece maintains exceptional timekeeping performance. The 3135 movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours, allowing the watch to remain functional even if it's not worn for a short period.
Rolex 116655 Price and Market Value:
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