About the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Reference 226679
The Yacht-Master line was introduced by Rolex to bridge professional maritime sport and luxury watchmaking, and the 42 mm case size represents the largest expression of the collection, designed for wrists that prefer a bold, commanding presence on the water and off. Reference 226679 is built entirely in 18 kt white gold, distinguishing it from the two-tone Rolesor and stainless steel variants elsewhere in the Yacht-Master family, and its Ring Command bezel couples mechanical elegance with practical nautical function. The Oysterflex bracelet—a metal blade architecture overmolded in black elastomer—delivers the comfort of a rubber strap with the structural rigidity and security of a traditional metal bracelet, a hallmark innovation Rolex introduced specifically for sport-luxury models. Powering every 226679 is the Rolex Calibre 3235, a manufacture movement featuring the Chronergy escapement and a Parachrom hairspring for improved resistance to shocks and magnetic fields.
What to Look For
When shopping the 226679 collection, the key distinction to evaluate is dial and bezel configuration: the 226679TBRDP designates a diamond-paved dial and a diamond-set bezel, commanding a significant premium over the 226679TBR, which retains the luminous dial and precious-metal bezel without diamond embellishment. Condition of the white gold case and Oysterflex bracelet, authenticity of Rolex paperwork, and the presence of original hang tags all materially affect value, and buyers should confirm that the Ring Command bezel snaps crisply through its positions as a basic functional check.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 226679TBRDP and the 226679TBR?
The 226679TBRDP features a dial set with diamonds and a bezel also set with diamonds, while the 226679TBR is the non-diamond version with a luminous dial and a plain white gold bezel surround. Both share the same 42 mm white gold Oyster case, Oysterflex bracelet, and Calibre 3235 movement, so the distinction is entirely in dial and bezel decoration, which drives a meaningful price difference between the two references.
Is the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 226679 a good investment piece?
White gold Yacht-Master 42 references have historically held strong secondary-market values because 18 kt white gold Rolex sport watches are produced in limited quantities relative to steel and Rolesor variants, keeping supply tight. Diamond-set configurations such as the 226679TBRDP tend to attract a dedicated collector segment willing to pay over retail, though value retention always depends on condition, completeness of paperwork, and overall market conditions at time of sale.
Does the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 226679 come with an Oysterflex bracelet?
Yes, reference 226679 is paired exclusively with the Oysterflex bracelet, Rolex's proprietary elastomer-over-metal-blade strap that combines the aesthetics and security of a metal bracelet with the wearing comfort of rubber. The bracelet includes a folding Oysterlock safety clasp and an integrated Rolex glidelock extension system, allowing fine length adjustment without tools—a practical feature appreciated during on-water use.
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Buy, trade, or sell. Contact Bizak & Co. for pricing and availability on any reference in this collection.
