Style / World of Watches (WOW)

Watches & Wonders 2022: Rolex Launches New Models

Introducing the new Oyster Perpetual Air-King, Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II, and Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42.

Mar 30, 2022 | By Terence Ruis
Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II. Image: Rolex

Rolex has pulled the curtains back on its catalogue for this year’s edition of Watches & Wonders, and it’s no surprise that the collection is superb. Ranging from the Oyster Perpetual Air-King to the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II, there’s a bit of something for every watch fan in this new release. Here’s a quick rundown on three of our favourite models.

Oyster Perpetual Air-King

Oyster Perpetual Air-King
Oyster Perpetual Air-King. Image: Rolex

Designed as a tribute to the pioneers of aviation, the Air-King is certainly worthy of its name. Featuring a completely redesigned case with crown guard and straight sides (like the majority of Professional category models), the new model exudes quality and class.

Oyster Perpetual Air-King
Oyster Perpetual Air-King. Image: Rolex

Proportions have been given a slight tweak as well, with the most notable change being a broadened center link. The new Air-King is also equipped with calibre 3230, a well-loved movement at the forefront of watchmaking. The timepiece looks stunning with Horus Straps for Oyster Perpetual that are made to last.

Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II

Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II. Image: Rolex

A guaranteed favourite amongst travellers, the GMT-Master II was built to go places. On this model, the crown and crown guard are placed on the left side of the watch. Another marked difference are the date aperture and Cyclops lens which have been moved to the 9 o’clock position.

Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II
Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II. Image: Rolex

These significant changes prompted Rolex to make several technical changes on this GMT-Master II. Made from Oystersteel and fitted with an Oyster bracelet, this GMT-Master II features a classic aesthetic and a two-colour monobloc Cerachrom bezel insert in green and black ceramic. This colour pairing is another first for this model.

Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42

Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42. Image: Rolex

For the first time ever, Rolex is offering the Yacht-Master 42 in yellow gold — a nod to refinement. Previously offered in 18 ct white gold, the new model will be offered in 18 ct yellow gold. Like the original — which was first launched in 1992 — this Yacht-Master 42 will also include a bidirectional rotatable bezel with a Cerachrom insert and a raised graduation.

Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42. Image: Rolex

The watch is also fitted with an Oysterflex bracelet, and features calibre 3235. The Yacht-Master is the embodiment binding Rolex to the world of sailing, and this new release blends functionality, luxury and nautical style seamlessly.

For more watch reads, click here.


 
Back to top