Simply Abu Dhabi XXXI

1 3 3 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I T he calibre in this 44mm watch is the 4161—a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement developed and manufactured entirely by Rolex. The movement is the triumphant result of over 35,000 hours of development and it introduces a patented function and comprises some 360 components. Some of them are made by Uv-LiGA—a microfabrication technology entirely mastered in-house by Rolex. This technology allows the production of components whose tiny proportions or complex geometry rule out manufacturing by traditional machining methods. The calibre 4161 evolves from the Rolex 4130 chronograph movement from the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph daytona and is fitted with a traversing column wheel and vertical clutch for an instantaneous and extremely precise chronograph start. All important for that crucial yacht race! The special development here is the regatta function. It comprises a programmable countdown that while technically complex, is easy to use. The mechanical memory can be synchronised on the move and it responds perfectly to the need for precise timing during the crucial starting sequence of a regatta. This allows skippers to precisely time and follow any race’s specific official starting procedure. The countdown’s sophisticated functions were designed to be easily set and operated and the preliminary programming of up to 10 minutes is accessed, and then locked, via the rotatable ‘Ring Command’ bezel. This innovative interaction between the movement and the bezel elevates the Yacht-Master II model to the rank of a new-generation watch and redefines the functions of the rotatable bezel. A technical feat made possible by Rolex’s in-house mastery of the entire watch design and manufacturing process, from the case to the movement. The 44mm case is crafted from a solid block of corrosion-resistant Oystersteel or 18ct gold, with a satin and polished finish. It’s guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres and the winding crown is fitted with the Triplock triple waterproofness system that screws down securely against the case. The Yacht-Master II is mounted on a three-piece link bracelet equipped with a Rolex designed and patented Oysterlock safety clasp. The bracelet is additionally fitted with the Easylink comfort extension link, which allows the wearer to increase the length by 5mm. As with all Rolex watches, each Yacht-Master is certified as a Superlative Chronometer. This exclusive designation attests that it has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories and according to its own criteria, which exceed watchmaking norms and standards.