There are some watches you admire from afar. And then there are watches you put on your wrist and think: Ok, this is cool. That was exactly my reaction to the Rolex Yacht-Master 40, reference 126622, in Oystersteel and platinum — the so-called “Rhodium” configuration — which I purchased from The Hour Glass in Rundle Mall. This isn’t just another Rolex sports watch. It’s something more refined. More subtle. More architectural.
And yes — it’s slim. Surprisingly slim. Let’s get into it.
It’s true, I collect watches and cameras. And I’m picky. I only buy what i know I will enjoy.
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 (Ref. 126622)
The exact model:
Rolex Yacht-Master 40
Reference: 126622
Case size: 40mm
Material: Oystersteel and platinum
Dial: Rhodium with blue accents
Bezel: Solid platinum, sandblasted with polished raised numerals
The Yacht-Master sits in an interesting place in Rolex’s lineup. It’s a professional model — but it’s not a tool watch in the same way a Submariner is. It’s sport, elevated. Nautical, but luxurious.
Materials: Oystersteel + Platinum
Rolex calls this combination “Rolesium” — Oystersteel case and bracelet paired with a solid platinum bezel.
- Case & bracelet: Oystersteel (Rolex’s 904L stainless steel alloy)
- Bezel: 950 platinum
- Dial: Rhodium finish with light sunburst sheen
- Hands & markers: 18 ct white gold, filled with Chromalight
The platinum bezel is what really sets this watch apart. It has a sandblasted matte finish with polished raised numerals. The contrast is stunning in person — especially when light hits the edges.
It’s tactile. Understated. Refined.
This is a bezel I’m definitely going to photograph up close for the blog. The texture is beautiful.
The Movement – Calibre 3235
Inside the Yacht-Master 40 is the Rolex Calibre 3235.
- Power reserve: Approximately 70 hours
- Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz)
- Chronergy escapement: More efficient and more resistant to magnetism
- Blue Parachrom hairspring: Shock resistant
- Precision: −2/+2 seconds per day (Rolex Superlative Chronometer standard)
This is Rolex’s modern generation movement platform. Robust, efficient, and designed for longevity.
You can leave it off for the weekend and pick it up Monday — it’ll still be running.
Slim. Really Slim.
Here’s something that surprised me.
The Yacht-Master 40 wears slimmer than a Submariner. It’s approximately 11.5 mm thick, giving it a more refined wrist presence.
When you look at it side-on, it almost feels like a hybrid between a sports watch and a dress watch.
It slides under a cuff.
It doesn’t scream for attention.
And that’s exactly why I like it.
I will keep wearing my Yacht-Master II everyday. This is my daily wear and is a bit too special. Its been on my wrist through a lot of events, and its great talking point. It has the steampunk look that I have a soft spot for. But I think I now have a thing for collecting Yacht-Masters. Especially those with the blue. And this blue Rhodium Yacht-Master is a great add to the collection. Really cool to look at.
I always buy at The Hour Glass in Rundle Mall
I always buy my Rolex watches from The Hour Glass in Rundle Mall — and in my view, that’s exactly why they are the best Rolex Authorised Dealer in Australia.
It’s not about size. It’s not about stock. It’s about experience.
From the moment you walk in, you’re treated with genuine respect. I’m not a flashy person — I simply appreciate quality. What matters to me is being welcomed in, being able to sit down, talk about watches properly, and have a real conversation about what I personally want to wear and collect.
That’s what sets The Hour Glass apart.
There’s no pressure to chase hype. No push toward whatever is trending. The focus is always on what suits you — your wrist, your taste, your long-term collection. They understand that buying a Rolex is not a transaction. It’s part of a journey.
Special shout out to their staff
They have great staff. that said I only deal with Niki there. My experience with Niki has been exceptional. She sold me this Yacht-Master — and it’s the second Rolex I’ve bought from her. She sold me a Daytona in 2025.
As a returning customer, that says everything, especially if you are in the market for a new watch.
She always makes time when I visit the store. We have real conversations about what I genuinely enjoy wearing and what makes sense for my collection long term. She listens, remembers my preferences, and gives me the space to try different pieces on and work out what feels right — without pressure. That patience and professionalism matter, because a Rolex purchase should never feel hurried. Having now bought two watches from her, I genuinely believe she sets the standard for service there. She’s a fantastic example of how a luxury experience should feel — attentive, personal, and built on trust.
I genuinely feel privileged that The Hour Glass is helping me build my Rolex collection. That culture of respect, conversation, and long-term relationship-building is why, in my opinion, they are the best Rolex Authorised Dealer in Australia.
The watch is incredible.
But the experience is what makes it special.
Yacht-Master vs Submariner – Why I Chose This
I’ve personally never been that interested in the Submariner.
Yes, it’s iconic. Yes, it’s a benchmark dive watch. But I only want to buy watches I’ll genuinely enjoy wearing.
The Yacht-Master speaks more to me.
It feels:
- More architectural
- More design-led
- Less utilitarian
- More refined
The polished centre links, the platinum bezel, the softer case curves — it’s classy without being flashy.
It’s a watch for someone who appreciates sailing aesthetics and precision engineering — not necessarily someone diving 300 metres underwater.
The Yacht-Master was first introduced in 1992 as a more luxurious take on Rolex’s professional maritime line. It shares DNA with the Submariner but leans toward elegance over ruggedness.
The Legacy of the Yacht-Master
The Yacht-Master line has always been about prestige within sport.
Where the Submariner is a tool, the Yacht-Master is a statement of lifestyle — maritime heritage meets luxury finishing.
It’s the watch you wear on deck, not necessarily in the depths.
Over time, Rolex has released it in:
- Yellow gold
- Everose gold
- Rolesor
- Oysterflex configurations
- 37mm and 42mm variants
But the 40mm Rolesium configuration is arguably the sweet spot.
Balanced. Modern. Understated.
Final Thoughts
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 (126622) in Oystersteel and platinum is one of those watches that quietly grows on you.
It’s slim.
It’s balanced.
It’s luxurious without being loud.
For me, it’s more compelling than the Submariner because it aligns with what I personally enjoy wearing.
And paired with a great buying experience at The Hour Glass in Adelaide, it makes it even more special.
Another great Hour Glass experience.
And yes.
This one is cool.
