Rolex 116655 Overview

The Rolex 116655, also known as the Yacht-Master II Everose, is a luxurious and sophisticated timepiece that combines the brand’s renowned craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. This model stands out for its striking combination of 18k Everose gold and black ceramic, offering a unique and elegant aesthetic.

History and Evolution

The Rolex 116655 was first introduced in 2013 as a successor to the original Yacht-Master II, which was released in 2007. The 116655 model features a number of improvements over its predecessor, including a more refined design, a new movement, and an enhanced regatta chronograph function.

Significance within the Rolex Collection

The Rolex 116655 is a flagship model within the Yacht-Master collection, known for its focus on precision and functionality. Its inclusion of 18k Everose gold, a proprietary Rolex alloy, further elevates its status as a luxury timepiece. This model appeals to a discerning clientele who appreciate the craftsmanship, performance, and exclusivity that Rolex embodies.

Target Audience

The Rolex 116655 is designed for individuals who value both style and functionality. Its sporty design, coupled with its advanced features, makes it suitable for both casual and formal occasions. The model’s high price point, however, positions it as a luxury purchase that is likely to appeal to individuals with a discerning taste and a strong appreciation for fine craftsmanship.

Design and Aesthetics: Rolex 116655

The Rolex 116655 Yacht-Master II is a striking timepiece that combines functionality with an elegant design. It features a robust case, a sophisticated dial, and a comfortable bracelet, all contributing to its overall aesthetic appeal.

Case Material, Size, and Design

The Rolex 116655 Yacht-Master II is crafted from 18k Everose gold, a proprietary alloy developed by Rolex that gives the watch a distinctive warm pink hue. This luxurious material is known for its durability, scratch resistance, and timeless appeal. The case measures 44mm in diameter, making it a substantial presence on the wrist. The case design incorporates a distinctive bezel with a Cerachrom insert, a ceramic ring that provides a scratch-resistant surface and features a graduated scale for timing events. The case also features a screw-down crown and caseback, ensuring water resistance to 100 meters.

Dial

The dial of the Rolex 116655 Yacht-Master II is a masterpiece of design. It is available in a variety of colors, including black, blue, and white. The dial features luminous hour markers and hands, ensuring excellent legibility in low-light conditions. The markers are applied in a contrasting color to the dial, creating a sharp and sophisticated look. The date window is positioned at 3 o’clock, adding to the watch’s functionality.

Bracelet

The Rolex 116655 Yacht-Master II is fitted with an Oysterflex bracelet, a unique and innovative strap that combines the comfort of rubber with the durability of metal. The Oysterflex bracelet features a flexible, black elastomer core that is covered with a thin layer of metal, creating a seamless and comfortable fit. The bracelet is secured with a deployant clasp, featuring an Easylink system that allows for a 5mm adjustment in the length of the bracelet, ensuring a perfect fit. The Oysterflex bracelet is also resistant to corrosion and UV rays, ensuring its long-lasting durability.

Movement and Functionality

The Rolex 116655 Yacht-Master II is powered by a robust and reliable mechanical movement, showcasing the brand’s commitment to precision and performance.

Movement Details

The watch houses the in-house caliber 4161, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement. This movement is known for its accuracy, durability, and advanced features. The caliber 4161 offers a power reserve of approximately 72 hours, ensuring the watch runs smoothly for a considerable period without needing to be wound.

Functions

The Rolex 116655 Yacht-Master II offers a range of functions designed to meet the needs of sailing enthusiasts. The watch features:

  • Timekeeping: The watch displays hours, minutes, and seconds with precision.
  • Date Display: A date window is located at the 3 o’clock position, providing a convenient way to keep track of the date.
  • Chronograph: The watch includes a chronograph function, allowing users to measure elapsed time with accuracy. The chronograph features a central seconds hand, a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, and a 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock.
  • Regatta Countdown: The most notable feature of the Yacht-Master II is its regatta countdown function. This innovative feature allows sailors to set a countdown timer for the start of a race. The countdown is displayed on a rotating bezel, which can be set to a specific time interval, ensuring the sailor is prepared for the race start.

Accuracy and Customization

The caliber 4161 movement is known for its exceptional accuracy, meeting the stringent standards set by Rolex. The watch is certified as a Superlative Chronometer, guaranteeing its accuracy within a range of -2/+2 seconds per day.
While Rolex generally does not encourage modifications to its watches, the caliber 4161 movement is considered highly reliable and robust, capable of handling routine maintenance and repairs.

Material and Craftsmanship

The Rolex 116655 Yacht-Master II is a testament to Rolex’s commitment to using high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. From the robust stainless steel case to the gleaming 18k Everose gold accents, every component is carefully selected and assembled to create a watch that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.

The watch’s construction is a symphony of precision and artistry, showcasing Rolex’s dedication to producing timepieces that are not only functional but also works of art.

Materials Used, Rolex 116655

The Rolex 116655 is a masterful blend of robust materials, each chosen for its specific properties and contribution to the watch’s overall durability and aesthetic appeal.

  • 904L Stainless Steel: This proprietary steel alloy, developed by Rolex, is known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion and scratching. It’s also highly biocompatible, making it comfortable to wear. The use of 904L steel ensures the watch’s longevity and maintains its pristine appearance even after years of wear.
  • 18k Everose Gold: This unique rose gold alloy, also developed by Rolex, combines the warmth and elegance of traditional rose gold with the exceptional durability of 904L steel. Its reddish hue adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the watch’s design.
  • Cerachrom Bezel: The unidirectional bezel is crafted from Rolex’s proprietary ceramic, Cerachrom. This highly scratch-resistant material is also impervious to fading and corrosion, ensuring that the bezel’s markings remain clear and legible for years to come. The Cerachrom bezel is a testament to Rolex’s commitment to innovation and durability.

Craftsmanship

The Rolex 116655 is a marvel of horological craftsmanship, showcasing Rolex’s commitment to precision and meticulous attention to detail.

  • Polished and Satin-Brushed Finish: The case and bracelet of the 116655 feature a combination of polished and satin-brushed finishes. This contrasting treatment adds visual interest and depth to the watch’s design, while also enhancing its durability. The polished surfaces create a sense of elegance, while the satin-brushed surfaces provide a more subtle and understated aesthetic.
  • Fluted Bezel: The iconic fluted bezel is a hallmark of Rolex’s craftsmanship. The intricate grooves on the bezel are meticulously machined to create a distinctive texture that is both visually appealing and functional. The fluting provides a secure grip for rotating the bezel, ensuring that the watch’s timing functions are easy to use.
  • Cyclops Lens: The date window is magnified by a Cyclops lens, which is a small, convex lens placed over the date window. This feature ensures that the date is easily readable, even for those with less-than-perfect vision. The Cyclops lens is a testament to Rolex’s attention to detail and its commitment to creating watches that are both functional and stylish.

Manufacturing Process

The Rolex 116655 is a product of a rigorous and meticulous manufacturing process that involves a combination of advanced technology and traditional craftsmanship.

  • In-House Manufacturing: Rolex controls every stage of its watchmaking process, from the creation of its own alloys to the assembly of the final product. This vertical integration allows Rolex to maintain the highest standards of quality and ensure that each watch is built to its exacting specifications. This meticulous approach is reflected in the 116655’s exceptional durability and reliability.
  • Precision Machining: The case, bezel, and other components of the 116655 are machined with exceptional precision, using state-of-the-art equipment. This ensures that each part fits perfectly, creating a watch that is both robust and aesthetically pleasing. The precise machining also contributes to the watch’s smooth operation and accuracy.
  • Hand Assembly: While many stages of the manufacturing process are automated, the final assembly of the 116655 is done by hand. Skilled watchmakers meticulously assemble the watch’s components, ensuring that each part is perfectly aligned and that the watch functions flawlessly. This meticulous hand assembly is a testament to Rolex’s commitment to craftsmanship and its dedication to producing watches of the highest quality.

Market Value and Collectibility

The Rolex 116655, with its striking rose gold and black ceramic combination, is a highly sought-after timepiece that commands a significant price in the pre-owned market. Its value is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including its limited production, enduring popularity, and the inherent desirability of its unique design elements.

Current Market Value

The current market value of the Rolex 116655 can vary depending on several factors, including its condition, box and papers, and the specific retailer or online platform where it is being sold. Generally, prices range from around $25,000 to $35,000 for a pre-owned watch in good condition. However, pristine examples with full documentation can fetch even higher prices, sometimes exceeding $40,000.

  • Condition: Watches in excellent condition with minimal wear and tear will command higher prices than those with visible scratches or other signs of use.
  • Box and Papers: The presence of the original box, papers, and warranty card can significantly increase the value of a Rolex 116655. These documents provide provenance and authenticity, which are highly valued by collectors.
  • Retailer/Platform: The price of a Rolex 116655 can also vary depending on the retailer or online platform where it is being sold. Authorized dealers and reputable pre-owned watch retailers generally offer higher prices than individual sellers.

Collectibility

The Rolex 116655 is highly collectible due to its limited production, enduring popularity, and the unique combination of materials used in its construction. It has become a coveted piece among watch enthusiasts and collectors, and its value is expected to continue to appreciate over time.

  • Limited Production: Rolex’s production of the 116655 was limited, making it a relatively rare and sought-after watch. This limited availability contributes to its desirability and value.
  • Enduring Popularity: The Rolex 116655 has consistently been a popular model among collectors and enthusiasts. Its iconic design, luxurious materials, and excellent performance have ensured its enduring appeal.
  • Unique Design Elements: The combination of rose gold and black ceramic is a unique feature of the 116655. This distinctive design has made it a highly desirable watch among collectors who appreciate its aesthetic appeal.

Comparison with Similar Models

The Rolex 116655, with its eye-catching Everose gold and black ceramic bezel combination, stands out in the luxury sports watch market. However, it’s essential to compare it with other Rolex models within the same category to fully appreciate its strengths and weaknesses.

Comparison with Other Rolex Models

The Rolex 116655 competes directly with other Rolex models within the Yacht-Master line, particularly the 116622 (stainless steel and platinum), 116652 (white gold), and 116680 (stainless steel). It also shares similarities with the Sea-Dweller Deepsea (116660) and the Submariner (116610LN).

  • Rolex Yacht-Master 116622: This model is a more affordable option with a stainless steel case and platinum bezel. It offers a classic and sporty look but lacks the luxurious appeal of the 116655.
  • Rolex Yacht-Master 116652: The 116652, crafted in white gold, provides a similar level of luxury to the 116655 but lacks the unique color combination.
  • Rolex Yacht-Master 116680: This model, with its stainless steel case and blue ceramic bezel, offers a more sporty and casual aesthetic than the 116655.
  • Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea 116660: This model is designed for deep-sea diving and boasts a larger case size and thicker sapphire crystal. It offers superior water resistance but is significantly more expensive than the 116655.
  • Rolex Submariner 116610LN: The Submariner, a classic dive watch, offers a more affordable option with a stainless steel case and black ceramic bezel. However, it lacks the sophisticated appeal of the 116655.

Key Differences and Similarities

The 116655 stands out due to its distinctive Everose gold and black ceramic bezel combination. It offers a luxurious and elegant aesthetic that sets it apart from other Rolex models.

  • Strengths: The 116655 boasts a unique and sophisticated design, exceptional durability, and impressive water resistance. Its Everose gold case provides a luxurious feel and warm, reddish hue.
  • Weaknesses: The 116655 is relatively expensive compared to other Rolex models and may not be as practical for everyday wear due to its gold construction.

Comparison Table

The table below provides a concise comparison of the Rolex 116655 with similar models, highlighting key features, price, and availability:

Model Case Material Bezel Material Price (approx.) Availability
Rolex Yacht-Master 116655 Everose Gold Black Ceramic $25,000 – $30,000 Limited
Rolex Yacht-Master 116622 Stainless Steel Platinum $12,000 – $15,000 Readily available
Rolex Yacht-Master 116652 White Gold Black Ceramic $20,000 – $25,000 Limited
Rolex Yacht-Master 116680 Stainless Steel Blue Ceramic $10,000 – $13,000 Readily available
Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea 116660 Stainless Steel Black Ceramic $15,000 – $20,000 Readily available
Rolex Submariner 116610LN Stainless Steel Black Ceramic $8,000 – $11,000 Readily available

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