It’s that time of year when we finally get to see all the new releases from Rolex Watches & Wonders 2023, the largest watch exhibition in the world which is taking place in Geneva, Switzerland from March 27 - April 2. While almost 50 watch brands announce their novelties for the year during the event, the Rolex watch brand is without a doubt the watchmaker that gets most of the attention. So, without any further delay, here are a few of the eye popping new releases from Rolex at Watches & Wonders 2023.
New Rolex GMT-Master II in Yellow Gold and Yellow Rolesor
After a few years of absence, Rolex has brought back yellow gold to the GMT-Master II collection. There are two new models that join the 2023 Rolex releases: the full yellow gold GMT-Master II ref. 126718GRNR and the steel and yellow gold GMT-Master II ref. 126713GRNR.
Both of these newest GMT-Master II watches feature never-before-seen gray and black Cerachrom bezels on top of their 40mm cases, complete with 24-hour numerals in yellow gold. Rolex only offers the choice of a Jubilee bracelet for the pair, however, we wouldn’t be surprised if an Oyster bracelet becomes an option in the near future.
Similar to the vast majority of other Rolex sport watch models, these golden GMT-Master II variants will be highly coveted by Rolex enthusiasts everywhere. They pair classic Rolex GMT aesthetics with precious metal and a new bezel colorway, and that is a recipe for success.
We spoke with Paul Altieri, Founder and CEO of Bob's Watches to get his take on some of these spectacular new Rolex models.
New Generation Rolex Daytona
To mark the 60th Anniversary of the Daytona watch, Rolex has introduced an entirely new generation of watches with slightly updated cases and dials, along with a new movement. This new generation of Rolex Daytona models carries 126xxx reference numbers.
The Watches and Wonders 2023 Rolex Daytona watches still retain the customary 40mm case sizes but the lugs are slightly wider and there are new light reflections on the lugs and case sides. Plus, Cerachrom bezels are now framed with rings in a metal that matches the case.
'The New Rolex Daytona with Redesigned Case and New Caliber 4131 looks virtually the same from the front and the open case back is cool,' said Altieri. He continued, 'Its hard to improve perfection so no surprise here. But it finally happened…… Rolex retired the ever-popular 116500LN Cosmograph Daytona on its 60th anniversary and replaced it with a new movement, case, and dial. Subtle changes on the dial but I love the steel rimmed bezel. The new reference number for the steel Daytona is 126500. Good luck getting your hands on a 116500 now. Prices should rocket.'
Learn more about the Daytona collection by reading Bob’s Watches buying guide here
New Titanium Rolex Yacht-Master 42
Another anticipated 2023 Rolex release is the brand-new Yacht-Master 42 watch in RLX titanium. Titanium is the newest material in Rolex’s catalog, having debuted last year in the 50mm Deepsea Challenger. That release got people talking about other potential titanium Rolex watches, and it’s now here in the form of the Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226627.
The 42mm titanium case of the Yacht-Master 226627 is equipped with a bidirectional matt black Ceramic bezel with raised numerals and markings. The dial is also black, home to the customary Mercedes-style hands at the center pointing to lume-filled plots around the periphery. Like all current Rolex watches with date windows, the date at 3 o’clock is magnified by the Cyclops lens affixed to the sapphire crystal.
“The Rolex Yacht Master 42m Is the Showstopper in my opinion,” said Altieri.
You can browse Bob’s Watches full section by visiting Rolex Yacht-Master watches for sale, or check out their selection of Rolex Yacht-Master II watches here.
