rolex yacht master titanium oysterflex

Oyster Perpetual

Yacht-Master 42

An emblematic watch in rlx titanium.

The emblematic watch of the sailing world, the Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42 is now available in RLX titanium. More than a simple variation, the use of this new, robust and light material required the development of particular industrial techniques, allowing the metal to be manipulated with the utmost care. Advantages proven by Sir Ben Ainslie, renowned skipper and luminary of the SailGP, who tested a Yacht-Master 42 in RLX titanium exclusively created for him, enabling the development of the new version presented in 2023.

RLX titanium is a grade 5 alloy that is lighter than steel and denser than aluminium.

Mastering lightness

Titanium is a surprising metal. The titanium selected by Rolex to manufacture its watches is a grade 5 alloy named RLX titanium. It is both lighter than steel and denser than aluminium, yet harder and more resistant than either of these metals. Its characteristics are so unique that its processing and finishing – particularly the technical satin finish specially developed by Rolex and specific to watches in RLX titanium – required the development of a dedicated industrial process. Using RLX titanium to create the case and bracelet also reduces the weight of the watch by about one-third compared with the same watch in Oystersteel. A major watchmaking feat, marked by the distinctive symbol on the winding crown: a dash surrounded by two dots.

Unprecedented aesthetic balance

The new Yacht-Master 42 stands out with its finishes, a combination of technical satin, high-sheen and polished, proof of Rolex’s know-how in machining and finishing. The three finishes delight the eye with their subtle play on textures and light, contrasting the gleaming polished surface of the crown guard, the lustrous high-sheen on the top edges of the case lugs, and the matt of the technical satin finishing – with its pronounced grain – visible on the case and bracelet. An unprecedented aesthetic balance reinforced by the combination of the RLX titanium’s anthracite grey colour and the matt black colour of the Cerachrom bezel insert in ceramic.

Unparalleled comfort

The new Yacht-Master 42’s Oyster bracelet is also made of RLX titanium. Sporting a technical satin finish extending to the edge of its links and to the sides of the Oysterlock safety clasp’s cover, it is equipped with an Easylink comfort extension link that allows its length to be easily adjusted by about 5 mm. It also includes ceramic inserts inside the links to enhance its flexibility and longevity.

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Tested against the elements

In 2021, Sir Ben Ainslie, a four-time Olympic sailing champion, was chosen to test a Yacht-Master 42 specially designed for him. This gentleman skipper competed in the SailGP championship with the only watch of its kind in the world: a Yacht-Master 42 in RLX titanium. By exposing its watches to extreme conditions, Rolex perpetuates the vision of its founder Hans Wilsdorf, who saw the world as a living laboratory in which only extreme testing could provide evidence of a watch’s reliability. A chronometer with superlative precision, made of a material used in high-technology industries, the watch proved to be the perfect ally for the driver of the Great Britain team. Ultralight, robust and extremely corrosion-resistant, it accompanies him on board without hindering any of his movements.

.css-1afbye{font-family:var(--quote-font-family);font-style:var(--quote-font-style);font-weight:var(--quote-font-weight);font-size:clamp(1.5rem, 0.6875rem + 2.0313vw, 3.125rem);line-height:1.3;}figure:not(.removem1epbs8d) .css-1afbye::before,figure:not(.removem1epbs8d) .css-1afbye::after{display:inline;}figure:not(.removem1epbs8d) .css-1afbye::before{content:var(--quote-opening);}figure:not(.removem1epbs8d) .css-1afbye::after{content:var(--quote-closing);}@media (max-width: 30rem){.css-1afbye{line-height:1.4;}}.short-quote .css-1afbye{font-family:var(--quote-font-family);font-style:var(--quote-font-style);font-weight:var(--quote-font-weight);font-size:clamp(1.875rem, 0.6250rem + 3.1250vw, 4.375rem);line-height:1.3;}figure:not(.removem1epbs8d) .short-quote .css-1afbye::before,figure:not(.removem1epbs8d) .short-quote .css-1afbye::after{display:inline;}figure:not(.removem1epbs8d) .short-quote .css-1afbye::before{content:var(--quote-opening);}figure:not(.removem1epbs8d) .short-quote .css-1afbye::after{content:var(--quote-closing);}@media (max-width: 30rem){.short-quote .css-1afbye{line-height:1.4;}} Sailing is such a fascinating sport. I love the diversity.

A breath of fresh air for sailing

It is a competition unlike any other in the world. With its multihulls travelling at more than 50 knots – almost 100 km/h – and comprising multiple events across the world, the SailGP series showcases the most innovative technologies in water sport. Rolex has been Presenting Partner and Official Timepiece of SailGP since the competition was inaugurated in 2019. A veritable ballet of the seas, SailGP is a spectacle like no other. Aboard their catamarans flying across the water, team members grapple with the elements, each playing a precise role.

Faced with the unexpected, they must band together to withstand stress and make instantaneous decisions. To sense the direction of the wind before the others and gain the best trajectory to win. Among these outstanding athletes is Rolex Testimonee Sir Ben Ainslie, who tested a Yacht-Master 42 in RLX titanium during races. With incomparable lightness, this watch offers unparalleled liberty of movement, as much on land as at sea. It allows the wearer to lead their life with a masterful hand, in the perpetual quest to balance speed and staying the course.

Oyster, 42 mm, RLX titanium

Shop New Arrivals

An Overview of the Oysterflex Rolex Watches

I’ll admit, when I first saw the Oysterflex bracelet back in 2015, I was not a fan. With its imposing black color and sporty rubber profile, it was just so un-Rolex. But fast-forward a few years later, and the Oysterflex style has grown on me. I don’t know if I would go as far as to say that I would wear one regularly, but I do admire what Rolex created. After all, the Oysterflex is not merely a rubber strap (this is Rolex we’re talking about), but a thoughtfully crafted bracelet that combines the advantages of elastomer and metal.

While the Oysterflex was initially exclusively available with the Yacht-Master 37 and Yacht-Master 40 watches, Rolex has rolled out this sporty black bracelet to other models, including Yacht-Master 42, Daytona, and Sky-Dweller watches. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the Oysterflex Rolex watches, including an explanation of design, sizes, and prices.

Click here for our Ultimate Buying Guide on Rolex Watches.

What is Rolex Oysterflex

Rolex is careful to call the Oysterflex a bracelet and not a strap, and once you understand its construction, you’ll see why. The patented design consists of a titanium and nickel-alloy blade clad in black elastomer. The result is much of the same durability as a metal bracelet, with the flexibility and comfort of a rubber strap. Regardless of what Rolex calls it, enthusiasts do refer to it as an Oysterflex strap almost as often as an Oysterflex bracelet.

Style-wise, rather than just a smooth finish, the exterior of the band includes a raised center for an attractive tiered surface. If you take a look at the underside of the Oysterflex, Rolex added wing-like rubber components. These curved cushions raise the rubber away from the skin slightly to allow for much-needed airflow. They also serve to stabilize the watch and help keep it centered on the wrist.

Like most Rolex bracelets, the Oysterflex bracelet tapers slightly as it meets the solid gold Oysterlock safety clasp attached to it. The sturdy deployant clasp is equipped with the super practical Easylink extension system, which permits wearers to lengthen the bracelet by around 5mm for a roomier fit.

Can You Buy Rolex Oysterflex?

You can only buy a Rolex Oysterflex bracelet (from Rolex) for a model that already comes paired with an Oysterflex bracelet. In short, you can buy a replacement Oysterflex bracelet. So this begs the question, which Rolex watches are available with an Oysterflex?

The Oysterflex made its debut in 2015 on the then-new Everose gold Yacht-Master models in 40mm (ref. 116655) and 37mm (ref. 268655) sizes, each fitted with a black dial. This particular bracelet was a solid choice for the new iterations of the luxurious yet sporty Yacht-Master models, as it matches the black Cerachrom ceramic bezels and black dials perfectly. Plus, the rubber coating is well suited for life at sea, since it can stand up to salty waters and long-term sun exposure.

Following the introduction of the Oysterflex on the Yacht-Master, Rolex rolled out this particular bracelet style to select Daytona models in 2017. Additionally, Rolex has used it to replace all of the leather strap options within their Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona collection. Today, the Everose gold Daytona ref. 116515LN, the yellow gold Daytona ref. 116518LN, and the white gold Daytona ref. 116519LN all sport the innovative black Oysterflex bracelet. The sporty black rubber Oysterflex band looks especially great with Rolex’s famed sports chronographs – regardless of the case metal.

Finally, in 2020, the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller was the latest Rolex watch collection to receive the Oysterflex bracelet treatment. You can find it on the Everose gold Sky-Dweller 326235 and the yellow gold Sky-Dweller 326238.

Rolex Watch Models with Oysterflex

• Rolex Yacht-Master

Rolex Daytona

• Rolex Sky-Dweller

It’s worth noting that the Oysterflex bracelet is currently only available on gold Rolex watch models, including yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. Whether or not Rolex decides to furnish steel watches (or another precious metal watch like platinum) with Oysterflex bracelets in the future remains to be seen.

How Much Does a Rolex Oysterflex Cost?

If you buy a Rolex Oysterflex bracelet replacement, it’ll cost you around $250 per side. Since the Oysterflex bracelet comes with two separate pieces, each side is sold separately and the solid gold clasp is a separate (and significant) additional charge.

Since the Yacht-Master, Daytona, and Sky-Dweller have different case sizes, Oysterflex bracelets come in four different widths:

• 18mm to fit the 37mm Yacht-Master (Bracelet Code 350557, Part # B218-106-x)
• 20mm to fit the 40mm Yacht-Master and Daytona (Bracelet Code 350501, Part # B218-105-x)
• 21mm to fit the 42mm Yacht-Master Bracelet Code 351525, Part # B218-107-x)
• 22mm to fit the 42mm Sky-Dweller (Bracelet Code 351860, Part # B218-108-x)

Each side of the bracelet comes in six different lengths, which are categorized from letters C to H. The “x” in the above part numbers would be replaced with a size letter C, D, E, F, etc.

Remember, Rolex does not sell Oysterflex bracelets to pair with Rolex watches that don’t originally come with an Oysterflex. The company will simply sell you a replacement for an already existing bracelet.

The (retail) costs of Oysterflex bracelet Rolex watches are as follows:

• Everose gold Yacht-Master 37 ref. 268655: $24,050
• Everose gold Yacht-Master 40 ref. 126655: $28,050
• White gold Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226659: $29,650
• Yellow gold Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226658: $28,300
• Yellow gold Daytona ref. 16518LN: $29,200
• White gold Daytona ref. 116519LN: $30,500
• Everose gold Daytona ref. 116515LN: $30,500
• Yellow gold Sky-Dweller ref. 326238: $40,000
• Everose gold Sky-Dweller ref. 326235: $41,400

Is Rolex Oysterflex Comfortable?

At first glance, the Oysterflex bracelet looks like a standard black rubber strap. However, the Oysterflex bracelet is not a simple rubber strap – as mentioned, it consists of a titanium and nickel alloy metal blade at its core, which is then wrapped with black elastomer. What’s more, for comfort, airflow, and stability, the underside of the band includes cushion segments to lift the rubber surface slightly above the skin.

Depending on the model, the Oysterflex is furnished with various clasps and extension systems to perfect the wearer to increase the bracelet length for added comfort and better fit.

• Cosmograph Daytona – Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink extension
• Yacht-Master – Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system
• Sky-Dweller – Folding Oysterclasp with Glidelock extension system

The Easylink permits the wearer to increase the bracelet length by approximately 5mm. On the other hand, the Glidelock permits micro-adjustment of the bracelet length by around 15mm, in increments of 2.5mm.

If you like luxury watches with rubber straps, then the Rolex Oysterflex is arguably one of the best-designed options in the market that offers fantastic comfort. It’s not often that Rolex SA unveils a completely new design and this highly innovative one is a worthy addition to the brand’s bracelet collection, joining the likes of the famous Oyster, Jubilee, and President bracelets.

About Celine Simon

Celine is a luxury watch writer here for us at Bob's Watches who has enjoyed working in the horology industry for over ten years. Like many of the high-end timepieces she writes about, she comes from Switzerland—the heart of fine watchmaking. From Singapore to Montreal to Geneva to Dubai to Amman, Celine has lived all over the world but now calls the beaches of Southern California home.

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Hands-On Rolex Made A Wearable Titanium Watch – How Are People Not Freaking Out?

Any other year, the titanium yacht-master 42 would steal the show for rolex. this year, the brand has so many crazy releases that the ym flies under the radar. here's why it still matters..

A year ago, the very idea of a titanium Rolex was relegated to wild dreams. A prototype had been seen on the wrist of British competitive sailor Sir Ben Ainslie, but the widely circulated online photo had gotten so old that some of us began to wonder if the watch would ever see the light of day.

The pic that launched our titanium dreams. Image by Ineos Britannia Team / C GREGORY

Now, in less than five months, we've gotten two watches from the Crown cased in RLX Titanium (a grade 5 titanium). The first was last year's 50mm Deep Sea Special , the mega dive watch that obliterated the water-resistance record. And now this week we have the Yacht-Master 42, which unlike the DSS is sized so that a normal human being could conceivably wear it. 

Here it is. The first practically sized titanium Rolex, the new Yacht-Master 42. 

It's a big deal. But when seen next to Daytonas with display casebacks, Day-Dates with emojis, a solid-gold GMT-Master II, and an entirely new line of dress watches, a titanium Yacht-Master barely moves the needle of surprise and excitement. What a wild 48 hours this has been for the House of Wilsdorf.

In some ways, it feels like the appropriate response to not be that excited. After all, at this point every other watchmaker under the sun has made a titanium watch, from affordable Citizens in multiple colors of bezels and dials to Jean-Claude Biver's $500,000 minute repeater tourbillon announced Sunday.

And yet, as soon as the new titanium Yacht-Master ref. 226627 started to be passed around the room of Hodinkee editors during this week's Watches & Wonders trade show, the general reaction was just to laugh with surprise. This 42mm watch, which looks so sturdy, feels so unbelievably light. I mean, that's titanium for you. But still. You can't quite believe this watch is real, on a number of different levels. 

For any of us who've ever tried on a steel Submariner (a.k.a. anyone with a passing interest in Rolex), it's kind of comical to find out how much your brain is preconditioned to see a 42mm steel Oyster case, round indices, and Mercedes hands and think about the luxurious heft that awaits you.

At around 100 grams, according to Rolex, the titanium Yacht-Master is so light it breaks your brain.

For a moment, let's compare the new YM to last year's titanium Pelagos from Rolex's sister brand Tudor. Rolex's choice to put the watch on a bracelet instead of a sportier Oysterflex makes the comparison obvious. I've now spent time with both pieces, and I prefer the Yacht-Master. 

The YM, like the Pelagos, is distinctly a tool watch – something that would have been hard to say about Yacht-Masters in the past. But the finishing a world apart, which is saying something for such an understated metal as titanium.

Rolex's proprietary grade 5 "RLX Titanium" (stronger than the grade 2 of the Pelagos) has the curious property of being equally able to be brushed satin or polished, which means it has the nice sharp and shiny chamfers that you'd like to see contrasted against the dark grey and relatively matte metal. That combination also works well with the more matte and textured dial – and with the contrast of the raised black numerals against a matte ceramic bezel insert, which is is the main giveaway that this is still squarely a Yacht-Master.

My main critique (which I share into the void, knowing that Rolex designers will do whatever they think best) is that I wish they'd  stuck to the no-date design of Ainsilie's prototype. In the practical application of most sailing races, there's really no use for a date. If you're blue-water sailing and circumnavigating the globe, maybe its useful, though just like dive watches the practical application gives way to the reality of technology. So why not refine the design further and leave the date off altogether? And while we're at it, a better quick-adjustment option would be great.

The price is somewhat immaterial – CHF 13,400 – since the average collector won't be able to get it at retail anytime soon. But the new Yacht-Master 42 is more than a solid release. It's a more than a titanium proof of concept. It's a wearable piece that portends at least the possibility of future experiments with this fascinating material. 

For more information visit Rolex. 

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From a New GMT Master II to a Titanium Case: What Watch Insiders Think Rolex Will Drop 2024

At last year's Watches and Wonders Geneva , Rolex shocked dealers, press, and collectors by unveiling a slew of whimsical models-three Oyster Perpetuals with lacquer dials featuring colorful bubbles and three Day-Date 36 models with jigsaw puzzle dials and emoji date wheels-that almost no one saw coming.

This year, the conventional wisdom is that the Crown will return to its, well, conventional approach: introducing timepieces that feature incremental changes, visually imperceptible to all but the most discerning collectors.

Robb Report asked a cohort of Rolex lovers-a mix of pre-owned sellers, collectors, and auctioneers-to weigh in with more specific predictions. Based on the comments below, an updated Rolex GMT-Master II "Coke" reference (featuring a distinctive black and red bezel) may well be the brand's big reveal. A new Submariner and precious metal variations of the Daytona would also be in line with expectations. A few people also made it clear that, hope against hope, the Crown would see fit to unveil a new Milgauss.

But can we expect anything as wild and wacky as last year? Probably not, though to Joshua Ganjei's point below, the brand has perfected the art of opacity.

"Rolex are experts at keeping secrets," says Ganjei, CEO and head curator of European Watch Company . "The truth is, nobody knows what Rolex is going to do, ever."

William Massena, founder of Massena LAB

My bet is that Grandpa Rolex will go back to what it knows best: introducing an improved version of an existing model on the Oyster line. The surprise might occur with the new 1908 collection-I would not be surprised if they added some references there and expanded the line.

Finally, the use of titanium in the Oyster Professional collection will be something that many observers will be looking for (but Rolex is known to be rather slow when it comes to evolving and expanding that line).

Paul Boutros,  Phillips' deputy chairman and head of watches, Americas

Rolex will reintroduce the Rolex Daytona Rainbow, fitted with 2023's caliber 4131. This time, they'll offer it as an off-catalog model, with an option of a champlevé enamel dial-the technique used for last year's Day-Date "Puzzle"-surrounding its gold crystal subdials.

Eugene Tutunikov, CEO of SwissWatchExpo

In 2024, the anticipation surrounding Rolex releases is high, with expectations for a blend of predictability and innovation. Building upon the previous year's trend of emoji-themed watches, 2024 could witness a shift towards revitalizing Rolex's timeless classics with innovative materials and vibrant color schemes. This could entail introducing new hues to traditional models or experimenting with novel materials to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.

One of the most significant events in the Rolex timeline is the 70th anniversary of the GMT-Master, which debuted in 1954. This milestone is likely to be commemorated with special releases and editions that pay homage to the iconic timepiece. Given Rolex's penchant for exclusivity and luxury, enthusiasts can expect to see exciting variations of the GMT-Master, possibly incorporating precious metals like gold or platinum.

A new iteration of the GMT-Master II is anticipated, possibly featuring a revived version of the beloved red/black "Coke" bezel. This iconic design element may receive a modern twist, such as being crafted in a precious metal that hasn't been utilized before, adding a fresh dimension to the classic aesthetic.

I also foresee a new watch to commemorate the Rolex Submariner that was first unveiled at Baselworld in 1954. Again, a variation of precious metals might be added to the mix such as platinum. I'm also hoping for an element of surprise-perhaps a hint of red text adorning the dial, which hasn't been seen since the '70s.

Henry Flores, founder of the Classic Watch Club in New York City

Maybe Rolex will release a "Coke" GMT with a black and red bezel and discontinue the "Pepsi." I've heard anecdotally through some authorized dealers that they've hardly seen any Pepsi GMTs come through their doors last year or the first quarter of this year. 

They may streamline all GMT cases to be more like the Submariner's case and add a rainbow Daytona in the new case style.

Paul Altieri, founder and CEO of Bob's Watches

We could see an updated Rolex GMT-Master II "Coke" reference 126710BLRO [a "Pepsi" version of the model is pictured below] at Watches & Wonders. The current-gen model with the black and red "Coca-Cola" bezel has been around since 2018, putting it near the typical six- to seven-year Rolex product cycle for refreshes.

Don't expect any dramatic aesthetic departures from the beloved bi-color bezel look. But Rolex may update the movement with a new caliber offering extended power reserve or other technical enhancements. An increased case size from 40 mm to better align with modern 41 mm models like the Submariner is also possible, though I doubt they'd stray too far from the classic Coke formula.

As a pillar of Rolex's lineup, you can count on refinements versus any radical overhaul of this icon. But a new Coke variant would definitely generate buzz as a highlight release. The GMT collection is hugely important, so Rolex will be careful while aiming to improve the product. An updated Coke would be a major unveiling.

Giovanni Prigigallo, co-founder of EveryWatch

I do not anticipate Rolex making a habit of releasing unconventional watches like the Emoji Day-Date or the Celebrations dial on the Oyster Perpetual. As usual, Rolex aims to maintain an element of unpredictability in their releases, so offering similar pieces would be out of character for the brand.

Instead, I expect Rolex to shift its attention back to its timeless classics. I wouldn't be surprised to see an evolution in the Submariner, as it has been a while since its last update. Likewise, the GMT line may see some exciting innovations. There have been longstanding rumors about the challenges in producing the Pepsi Bezel, so it wouldn't be unexpected if Rolex decides to discontinue this model and introduce something fresh in its place.

Finally, my wish for this year is that Rolex, following the discontinuation of the current version, releases a new Milgauss inspired by the original reference 6541! Such a move would mark a fantastic return to its iconic classics!

Eddie Goziker, president of Wrist Aficionado

Firstly, I believe Rolex will finally bring back the highly anticipated GMT-Master II "Coke" with its iconic black and red bezel. Fans have been clamoring for its return, and Rolex seems ready to deliver, especially considering the rumored patent they filed for the black/red ceramic bezel.

Moreover, we may see the discontinuation of the left-handed GMT-Master II "Sprite," as Rolex is known for its conservative approach and likely won't keep a funky left-handed watch in their catalogue for long. Or, maybe, they'll flip it back to a regular right-handed watch.

Moving on to the Daytona, I foresee the new model to herald the return of the meteorite dial, reminiscent of the very popular meteorite dial that was recently discontinued. Additionally, Rolex may introduce gold Daytona models with colorful dials, which would be a refreshing change from the current monochromatic designs. Colorful Daytonas have been popular so it makes sense Rolex will bring them back to push precious metal Daytona sales.

For the Submariner and Sea-Dweller collections, we are hoping Rolex finally introduces steel models with the Oysterflex bracelet, fulfilling the wishes of sports enthusiasts seeking a rubber-clad waterproof option. Another possibility is a rose gold Submariner with a green dial, perhaps in the popular olive shade. Alternatively, we would love to see a white gold "Hulk" variant, a "Hulk 2.0" if you will.

Joshua Ganjei, CEO and head curator of European Watch Company

With the reintroduced Pepsi already out for a number of years, it seems logical for a "Coke," or black and red, bezel GMT. Both vintage references are highly popular.

We can always expect some new dials or bracelet options on existing models as these are easy manufacturing modifications that can generate substantial sales. We also expect some surprising discontinuations - perhaps the black dial Le Mans Daytona, or the titanium Deepsea Challenge. These were iconic introductions and a sudden discontinuation will send a shockwave through the market.

Geoff Hess, Sotheby's head of watches for the Americas and founder of RollieFest

I predict Rolex this year will remain loyal to its unparalleled track record of consistency and will focus on making only incremental and slight changes to current models. I think we'll see their tried-and-true formulas in full force, with only modest modifications to existing designs to make the product minimally better. 

When it comes to innovation we typically think of large, dramatic alterations, but far more than in recent years, I believe the Rolex product this season will remain largely the same, and consistently great, but with only slight enhancements to the current lineup.  

Like no other brand, Rolex has found a way to make mass-produced luxury timepieces appear truly rare, and in turn, they become instantly coveted. New product is typically somewhat predictable for them, and always consistent. Accordingly, the brand is protected from market mistakes. In this exciting time of year for our hobby, Rolex will present an evolution, not a revolution.  

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New watches 2023

With its latest creations, Rolex demonstrates its perpetual pursuit of excellence. An ever-present challenge manifested in the brand’s ambition to perfect every component, question every method, and master every aspect of watchmaking expertise. The watches unveiled illustrate a desire to reinvent while preserving a sense of continuity, to innovate while being mindful of tradition, and to leverage technology in daring to create. It is through such efforts – bolstered by the ‘superlative’ vision that permeates the entire creation process down to the finest detail – that exemplary timepieces are formed, and prevail. Watches that, with time, become icons.

OYSTER PERPETUAL COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA

The emblematic style and technical performance of the Cosmograph Daytona have cemented its iconic status well beyond the motor racing circuits. To mark the 60th anniversary of the watch, Rolex ensures the legend lives on by revisiting the entire range.

PERPETUAL 1908

Elegant, classic and decidedly contemporary, the 1908 immortalizes Rolex’s age-long daring spirit. Its conception is the result of the brand’s comprehensive in-house expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence.

OYSTER PERPETUAL YACHT-MASTER 42

Light and robust, the new Yacht-Master 42, in RLX titanium, is the ally of those who revel in freedom. Especially suited to the demands and pressures of competitive sailing, it delivers exceptional performance.

OYSTER PERPETUAL SKY-DWELLER

With its two time zones and annual Saros calendar, the Sky-Dweller is an elegant and trusted companion for world travellers. The range has been updated with numerous enhancements illustrating the role that excellence plays even in the tiniest details.

OYSTER PERPETUAL GMT-MASTER II

The GMT-Master II is available this year in two new versions – yellow Rolesor and 18 ct yellow gold – with a Cerachrom bezel insert in grey and black ceramic, an entirely new colour combination.

OYSTER PERPETUAL EXPLORER 40

The Explorer range is expanded with the arrival of a new 40 mm model. Offering enhanced legibility, this timepiece carries all the qualities that have made the Explorer – one of the brand’s first Professional watches – a reference throughout the decades. Simple, robust and corrosion resistant, the new Explorer 40 is crafted from Oystersteel, a Rolex proprietary alloy.

OYSTER PERPETUAL

Alive with colour, vitality and positivity, the new dials of the Oyster Perpetual in 31 mm, 36 mm and 41 mm are dotted with many-coloured bubbles that joyfully reunite the five hues introduced to the range in 2020.

OYSTER PERPETUAL DAY-DATE 36

The new Day-Date 36 welcomes dials made of decorative stone in shimmering tones that evoke the atmosphere of the Mediterranean coast. 

With these versions of the Day-Date 36, Rolex brings an unexpected creative twist to one of its iconic models. By displaying a new emotion each day, the watch brings an element of spontaneity into the wearers’ daily life and allows them to invest the reading of time with their changing mood.

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Insider's guide to Moscow's best wine bars

Gavroche bar. The choice of wines in Gavroche is not overwhelming, but enough to satisfy the needs of a common wine drinker. Source: Press Photo

Most people don’t go to wine bars to be lectured by a sommelier, and even though wine bar culture is new to Moscow, the clientele has caught on to the idea that wine bars are places to socialize and learn in an informal atmosphere. Where should guests to the Russian capital go to get a good pour?

On a typical Friday evening, Gavroche is filled with middle-class and creative hipster-types looking to get the weekend started in a relaxing atmosphere. The design of the place is a bit ordinary, but Gavroche could hardly ask for a better location near Park Kultury metro in central Moscow.

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The choice of wines is not overwhelming, but enough to satisfy the needs of a common wine drinker. Some 25 wines – both whites and reds – are available by the glass and more than 100 – are waiting to be consumed by the bottle. The lower price tag for 150 ml of Hugel Gentil 2010 is around $9, which is fairly acceptable for Moscow. Nevertheless the prices of wines by the bottle is rather on the high side for this “democratic” wine bar.

Most of the wines are French, but Italian bottlings are also very present – the Pinot Grigio Elena Walch 2011 is available for $45 and a Jaquesson Cuvee Brut for $143.

Gavroche is quite a new place on the Moscow map, but well worth visiting.

Address: available on the website www.thewinebar.ru

You can’t lose if you choose a wine bar from the Grand Cru chain. Most of them are actually just wine shops with occasional tastings (if you are lucky enough to be invited) and only two are “real” bars with places to sit and sip.

The first one, which also features very nice food, is on Malaya Bronnaya Street just beside Patriarch’s Ponds – the famous ponds featured in the Bulgakov’s “ Master and Margarita ”. The wine bar is a creation of Maxim Kashirin and serves as the retail division of his Simple Wine importing company, which has a rather impressive fine wines and spirits portfolio – probably even the best in Russia.

Grand Cru is also quite famous for its connection with Spanish chef Adrian Quetglas who controls the menu. The prices are not particularly cheap, but people come here for the high level of service and guaranteed wine satisfaction no matter what their taste buds are up for.

Address: available on the website www.grandcru.ru

If you’re looking for the best wine price spread, the Vintage bar on Krasina Street is the choice for you. Despite its rather central location, the bar itself is no posh place. The modest interior seems to say that the owners are focused on wine, not design.

The owners themselves are regulars in the bar, which is another sign of their commitment to the place and their products. In order to handle its low-priced range of wines (starting from as low as $13 per bottle!) the bar had initially to remove “wine by the glass” option from its menu – but this option is now available again. Although the bar is not so easy to find, it’s full of people almost every night.

Address: available on the website www.barvintage.ru

One of the most elite wine bars can be astonishingly empty on Friday night. In fact, Dissident hardly qualifies as a wine bar; it’s more a wine restaurant with an extremely relaxing atmosphere and great staff ready to take care of everything.

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Dissident is a place with a long history, which is probably why it’s quite well known among wine people.

Still the prices mean the crowd is made up less of people who really know wine and more of people who are ready to spend $20 on a glass of red Argentine Terraza de los Andes – and for this place it’s a hot deal. Despite some high wine prices, the food seems to be of great quality and price. The grilled lamb is especially excellent.

The interior is very cozy and home-like, which is something that is missed in places like Gavroche. The background music is another advantage – good taste can be heard from far away. The restaurant is on the 5 th floor of the Nautilus business center on Lubyanka Square right in the middle of the city.

Address: available on the website www.dissident.msk.ru

Bontempi is situated just in front of the famous DomZhur (House of Journalists on Nikitsky Boulevard). Source: Press Photo

Although Marco Cevretti is not in charge of Bontempi’s extensive wine list, he’s the person that really makes this place work. Situated just in front of the famous DomZhur (House of Journalists on Nikitsky Boulevard), Bontempi seems to be always booming with life – partly due to the current trend toward worshiping wine and food but more because of the great unconventional design of the main area of the bar, which is located below the ground level.

If almost all other wine bars are generally sacrificing their food choices on the altar of extensive wine lists, Bontempi is the exception that proves the rule. Food is served in just the right portions, not very big, but extremely well done.

The wine list is really nice and the concept of selling wines dominates the whole idea of the place. After 6pm, almost each wine has two different prices here – one if you want to drink the wine at your table (more expensive), and the other – if you want to leave the bar in the evening with a bottle that you liked most. Before the evening, the take away price is the same as the price in the bar. By the way, did I mention great Florentine steaks and the possibility to come with your own bottle?

Address: available on the website www.barbontempi.ru

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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