In what many watch experts consider to be a year of consolidation for Rolex, the Oyster Perpetual Yacht Prestige 42 (Ref. 226659) easily makes headlines, and for a good reason. While the rest of Rolex’s new offerings for 2019 feature design tweaks and updates to the existing collection, the latest nautical tag heuer replica has more unexpected twists and turns than any other of its kind.

Right from the start, there’s something more endearing about the 42mm Ref. 226659. That may not sound like a big deal to those used to case sizes of 45mm and up, but for the brand’s loyal fans, it’s an answer to their prayers, as the standard size for men’s watches has always been 40mm. This also makes it one of the larger time and date models in the current Rolex lineup. In addition, its case is made of 18K white gold – a first for the collection – which gives it a luxurious weight that only precious metals can produce, while keeping it discreet for those who prefer to remain hidden.

Design-wise, the Yacht-Master 42 borrows heavily from another acclaimed model in the collection, the 2015 Ref. 116655 Stellar Gold. Most notably, it retains the nearly indestructible black Cerachrom bezel insert with raised and polished indexes and numerals, the maximum markers and hands on the black dial, and the Oysterflex strap best swiss replica watches. The latter is essentially a flexible strap with a flexible titanium and nickel alloy blade at its heart, combining the toughness and durability of a metal strap with the comfort and sporty look of a rubber strap.

The Yachtmaster 42 also benefits from the latest advances in Rolex movements. In its 100-meter water-resistant case sits the 14-patent self-winding calibre 3235, with its energy-saving Chronergy escapement, 70-hour power reserve, and resistance to shocks and magnetic fields. If the Yachtmaster is the flag bearer of Rolex luxury tool watches, it has certainly come a long way, as the Ref. 226659 is arguably its boldest and purest expression to date.