Amongst most of the new releases from different watch brands in 2022, none had more eyes on it than Rolex. With talks among the watch community that Rolex is getting too comfortable just changing bracelets or movements. However, this year, they seemed to listen to their community by coming out with some completely new designs going back to their roots as the forward thinking watch company that they are. I’m here to break down all five of its new releases.
Rolex Air-King 126900
Brand: Rolex
Model: Air-King
Reference Number: 126900
Diameter: 40mm
Case Material: Oystersteel
Dial Color: Black
Lume: Chromalight display
Water Resistance: 100m
Strap/Bracelet: Oystersteel bracelet
Bracelet: Oystersteel
Some might say that this is the same exact thing as its predecessor Ref. 116900. However, upon closer inspection, there is now improved visibility on the 3, 6, and 9 numerals by adding Rolex’s newer Chromalight display causing the numbers to glow a bright blue when in the dark. This new addition will allow Air-King fans to wear this at night as well as improving its overall functionality. Similar features were added to the Explorer when first released (Ref. 214270). This new and improved Chromalight feature, although subtle, will make a big difference. This is my personal favorite release among the line.
Rolex GMT Master II 126720VTNR
Brand: Rolex
Model: Oyster Perpetual GMT Master II
Reference Number: 126720VTNR
Diameter: 40mm
Case Material: Oystersteel
Dial Color: Black
Lume: Chromalight display
Water Resistance: 100m
Strap/Bracelet: Oystersteel bracelet
This by far has been the most sought-after release. While many speculated that a new “Coke” bezel GMT was to come out, we got something else entirely. With the success of the recent theme of green in their watches lately, it is easy to see why Rolex would continue with the design. What seems to go unnoticed specifically about this model seems to be that it is meant to be left-handed with the crown placement on the left side rather than the usual right for most watches. This to me was something so new and fresh. Rolex has produced very few left-handed models as early as the 1940’s to the 1950’s and usually only by request. Not much else has changed besides the colors and the crown placement. This is most likely going to be the most sought-after model among the new releases as the GMT line has been the past few years. So Goodluck to all of you that will try to snag one for yourself.
Rolex Day-Date 40
Brand: Rolex
Model: Day-Date 40
Reference Number: 228236
Diameter: 40mm
Case Material: Platinum
Dial Color: Ice Blue
Water Resistance: 100m
Strap/Bracelet: Oystersteel bracelet
The Rolex Day-Date 40 line has been a huge success since its release in 2015. Catered to the most luxurious clientele nicknamed “The President,” the watch has always been made in precious metals including Yellow Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, and Platinum. Platinum being the hardest metal to work with, Rolex had difficulties molding it into their signature fluted bezel. Previous platinum Day-Dates were outfitted with only smooth bezels. With this new release on the fluted bezel, the platinum variation will no longer look like the step sibling of the other day-dates. Rolex has decided to expand their dials with this platinum watch with new colors such as bright blue, olive green, and meteorite to name a few. With platinum watches always being at the highest price point, only very few will have access to this watch.
Rolex Yachtmaster 42
Brand: Rolex
Model: Yachtmaster
Reference Number: 226658
Diameter: 42mm
Case Material: 18ct Yellow Gold
Dial Color: Black
Water Resistance: 100m
Strap/Bracelet: Oysterflex
The Yachtmaster 42 was one of the first few watches to come out on the oysterflex strap. It was innovative for Rolex to release a watch that mixes precious metal with a rubber strap. You were able to have the look of luxury but the functionality of an everyday watch. There was no need to worry about scratching the bracelet and the comfort was unmatched. One small update to the Yachtmaster line was made to include the Yellow Gold variation in this year’s release and discontinue the Rose Gold variation. It only made sense to do so considering both White Gold and Rose Gold were available in the past years. Elegance and functionality have always been part of the yachtmaster’s identity, and with the Yellow Gold variation, that continues to be the case.
