The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 226627 marked a genuine first for Rolex: the brand’s first widespread use of titanium in a Yacht-Master, and one of only a handful of Rolex references ever produced in the material. Cast entirely in RLX titanium — a grade 5 titanium alloy selected and specially processed by Rolex — this 42mm sports watch offers the Yacht-Master’s distinctive nautical identity in a notably lighter, more understated package than its steel and precious-metal siblings.

The monobloc middle case is finished with Rolex’s signature mix of polished and satin surfaces, a technique made more complex by titanium’s mechanical strength, and is paired with a bidirectional rotatable 60-minute bezel featuring a matte black Cerachrom ceramic insert. The bezel’s raised, polished numerals and graduations stand out clearly against the sandblasted matte finish, allowing sailors to calculate timing between navigational marks at a glance. The intense black dial carries broad triangular, circular, and rectangular hour markers filled with Chromalight for long-lasting low-light visibility, with a date window at 3 o’clock beneath the Cyclops lens.

Inside is the Rolex Calibre 3235, a Manufacture movement offering an approximate 70-hour power reserve and Superlative Chronometer certification, combining official COSC chronometer testing with Rolex’s own post-casing accuracy standard of -2/+2 seconds per day. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and screw-down Triplock crown help the case achieve 100 metres of water resistance, backed by Rolex’s Chronergy escapement and paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring for everyday reliability.

The watch is fitted to a three-piece solid-link Oyster bracelet, also crafted in RLX titanium and finished with patented ceramic inserts within the links to improve flexibility and long-term durability. It’s secured with the Oysterlock folding safety clasp and Rolex’s Easylink comfort extension, allowing quick adjustments of approximately 5mm on the wrist.

Combining genuine material innovation with the Yacht-Master’s established nautical styling, the 226627 offers a noticeably lighter wearing experience without compromising on Rolex’s usual precision and build quality — a distinctive choice for collectors looking for something outside the brand’s more common steel and gold references.

This watch is available to pickup from our boutique in Sydney CBD.

Comes as a full set down to all the links and paperwork.