The 2022 Rolex Novelties are hereFor many watch fans, this announcement is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Aside from the reality that none of these watches will be easy to obtain at retail (or from your retailer), its still fun to look and see which prognostications were realized. Hint: none of them!Ill admit that I put very little thought into predicting the 2022 Rolex novelties. Im always wrong, and I definitely would have been this yearStill, there are some relatively interesting updates here. I say, relatively, because its foolish to think that Rolex is going to surprise with something wildly outlandish. Slow and steady wins the race with this goliath, but there was one wild card that I dont think anyone saw coming. Well start with that one.
The GMT-Master II LHDThe first of the 2022 Rolex novelties is the new GMT-Master II ref. 126720VTNR. Its new because, and Ill use a Tudor Pelagos term here, it comes in LHD or left-hand diver. Thats right, theres now a Rolex built for lefties with its crown on the left side of the case at 9:00. Seriously, no one saw this comingThe watch also debuts a new color combination for Cerachromgreen and black. The 24-hour arrow hand also comes in green, which represents a bit of a return to the departed 116710LN. Everything else remains the same as the current GMT-Master II models, and that includes the use of the automatic caliber 3285. One nice tidbit is that the watch can be had on either the Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. The retail price is set at 10,300.
Quick thoughts:?As I said, this one was the big surprise amongst the 2022 Rolex novelties. It has been said that Rolex did produce left-handed models such as the GMT back in the 50s, but theyre extremely rare. I predict that folks will go ga-ga over this model because its a little weird and because the colors are vividly fantastic. Is this the new Green Lantern?
The Air-Kingnow with crown guardsJust six years after the introduction of the funky ref. 116900 Air-King, a replacement is here as one of the 2022 Rolex novelties. This previously controversial model has struck a chord with some while falling flat with others. Now, it has returned as ref. 126900 with some significant differences that just might make it more of a mainstream hit. Importantly, this watch has a brand new caseIm not sure if weve seen a Rolex sports watch without a functional bezel that has crown guards (100 meters is still the water-resistance rating).
Now we have one, and I personally think it does wonders for the 40mm watchFurthermore, Rolex added a 0 to the 5 marker to bring in some balance with the rest of the indexes. Chromalight is the lume of choice, which should brighten things at night. Inside, the 3230 automatic movement runs the show (an upgrade over the prior 3131 and now with 70 hours of power reserve). A newly proportioned Oyster bracelet with wider center links is used and fitted with an Oysterlock safety clasp. The retail price will be 6,850.
Quick thoughts:?OK, a left-handed GMT was a surprise, but an Air-King with crown guards? Maybe its the more subtle moves that are the real difference-makers. I wont say that I love this dial, but Im used to it, and I really like this new 40mm case. Rolex didnt need any help moving watches, but I think these changes have the chance to turn the Air-King into more than a cult favorite.
The Yacht-Master 42 in yellow goldNext up in the 2022 Rolex novelties is a 42mm Yacht-Master in 18K yellow gold. The new ref. 226658 joins an already-available ref. 226659 in white gold. This yellow gold version brings a black dial, black Cerachrom bezel insert, and black Oysterflex rubber bracelet. Rolex also tells us that the Chromalight lume has been improved. Inside, the 3235 automatic caliber powers this watch. It will retail for 26,450.
Quick thoughts:?While Ive always been confused about the Yacht-Master in general, Ive never had any questions about how these watches look on an Oysterflex bracelet. Bottom line: I love them and would love to wear one of these. Theyre sporty, classy, and comfortable looking all at once. This was an easy addition for Rolex and Im glad the brand chose to do it.
The Day-Date 40 in platinumWe finish the 2022 Rolex novelties on a fancier note with a new 40mm Day-Date in platinum. Previously, the 40mm version of this watch in platinum came with a smooth bezel. Now, we have a fluted variant on offer as well. Reference 228236 is currently available with an ice-blue dial and Roman numerals. Note the lovely darker blue sweep seconds hand. Rolex uses its 3255 automatic and fits the watch with a President bracelet that includes the concealed clasp. Price is on request, so, yes, this one is expensive.
Quick thoughts:?Youve noticed that were becoming bigger and bigger fans of the Day-Date here at Fratello. In fact, 2022 just might be the year that one or more of us land one of these Texas Timexes. Sadly, it probably wont be the new platinum versionStill, this is a lovely addition to that rare air space and I love the blue dial.
Final thoughts on the 2022 Rolex noveltiesWell, now that youve seen the 2022 Rolex novelties, what do you think? A left-handed model and crown guards on an Air-King strike me as the two big moves for the evolutionary brand. Im no longer expecting wild things and there wasnt a model in need of a major redo, so Id say that this was a fine, somewhat quiet year. Will I be rushing to my AD to put my name on the list for anything? Im not so sure, but Id like to see the Air-King in person. Well be excited to hear your thought in the comments section below.For more information on the 2022 Rolex novelties, visit the official Rolex site.
