Baselworld 2016 was a significant year for Rolex, and among the highlights was the unveiling of the updated Rolex Yacht-Master 40, reference 116621. This wasn't a radical redesign, but rather a subtle refinement of a classic sports watch, incorporating improvements that elevated both its aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. This in-depth review, accompanied by original photography from Baselworld 2016, delves into the details of this particular model, analyzing its specifications, price, and overall impact within the context of other new Rolex releases that year.
First Impressions: A Refined Classic
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 ref. 116621, presented at Baselworld 2016, immediately impressed with its understated elegance. While retaining the familiar Yacht-Master DNA, the 2016 iteration showcased a more refined and contemporary aesthetic. The 40mm Oyster case, crafted from Oystersteel (Rolex's proprietary 904L stainless steel), felt substantial and reassuringly weighty on the wrist. The iconic unidirectional rotatable bezel, a crucial tool for sailors, featured a polished ceramic insert in black. This ceramic insert offered superior scratch resistance compared to its aluminum predecessors, ensuring the watch's longevity and maintaining its pristine appearance even under rigorous use. The deep black of the ceramic contrasted beautifully with the polished steel of the case, creating a visually striking effect.
The dial, a matte black, provided excellent legibility. The applied indices, filled with Chromalight luminescence, shone brightly in low-light conditions, ensuring time could be read accurately even in the darkest environments. The hands, also treated with Chromalight, mirrored the indices' luminous properties, guaranteeing optimal visibility regardless of the ambient light. The overall design maintained Rolex's characteristically restrained elegance, prioritizing functionality and readability over superfluous ornamentation.
Technical Specifications and Movement:
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 ref. 116621 housed the caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. This movement, renowned for its reliability and accuracy, boasts a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Its COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) certification guarantees its precision and timekeeping capabilities. The movement is protected by a robust Oyster case, ensuring its resistance to water up to 100 meters (330 feet). The screw-down crown and Triplock winding system further enhance its water resistance and protection against the elements.
Here's a summary of the key specifications:
* Reference Number: 116621
* Case Material: Oystersteel (904L stainless steel)
* Case Diameter: 40mm
* Case Thickness: Approximately 12mm
* Bezel: Unidirectional rotatable bezel with ceramic insert
* Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with cyclops lens over the date
* Movement: Caliber 3135, self-winding mechanical
* Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours
* Water Resistance: 100 meters (330 feet)
* Bracelet: Oyster bracelet with Oysterlock safety clasp and Glidelock extension system
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