Watches and Wodners 2022 is here, and with it comes a wealth of new watches. Rolex tends to debut tons of new models at the event, and this year is no exception. Exciting updates, new variants, and a host of fresh color options make 2022 a great year to be a Rolex fan. Here’s an overview of what was unveiled.
Air-King
The new Air-King, reference 126900, features crown guards and a new 3230 movement. The outgoing model lacked lume in key areas on the dial, but Rolex fixed that with the new Air-King. It now features applied numerals with lamination material, making the watch much easier to read on the go. The overall shift to the 126900 made the Air-King sportier and more robust looking, but it retains its smooth bezel for a classier feel than its sports Rolex counterparts.
GMT-Master II
The big surprise is this: A green and black GMT Master II oriented for lefties. The crown and date have been shifted to the other side of the watch case, but the overall GMT feel remains. Rather than the “Pepsi” mode, with its red and blue bezel or one of the “Bat” variants, with its blue and black bezel, this new model features a distinct green and black bezel. The 3285 movement remains, though it’s positioned differently than other GMT models.
Yacht-Master
Rolex debuted new Yacht-Master models today. One comes in yellow gold 42mm model and the other is a white gold 42mm watch with a Falcon’s Eye dial. Both come on an Oysterflex bracelet and expand on the 42mm Yacht-Master line, which was previously slim compared to others in Rolex’s catalog. A new 40mm model is available that comes decked out in diamonds.
Day-Date
The new Day-Date comes in platinum with a fluted bezel for the first time. It runs on Rolex’s 3255 movement, which offers a 70-hour power reserve and the watch’s signature dat and date complications. The 40mm watch will be quite a handful (or wristful) for most, as the Day-Date 36mm is already hefty. Existing 40mm watches in precious metals like Rose Gold are some of the heaviest timepieces the company makes.
Datejust
Rolex debuted a variety of new Datejust models, ranging in size from 28mm to 41mm. New dials, dial colors, and materials choices are available now, including a Datejust 31mm in Oystersteel with Everose (rose gold) accents and diamonds.