Watch Paparazzi

Politician Edgar Egay Erice spotted wearing Rolex

Filipino politician Edgar Egay Erice was recently photographed wearing a Rolex Yacht-Master 40 in 18k Everose gold, reference 116655 — a watch that, while relatively understated in profile, represents one of Rolex's most complete expressions of the sport-luxury formula the Geneva manufacture has refined over decades.

Introduced in 2012 as part of Rolex's ongoing evolution of the Yacht-Master line, the ref. 116655 distinguishes itself as the sole 40mm Yacht-Master rendered entirely in 18k Everose gold — Rolex's proprietary rose-gold alloy engineered with a small percentage of platinum to resist fading and maintain its warm pink hue over time. The 40mm Oyster case pairs with the brand's Oysterflex bracelet, a black vulcanised rubber strap with a titanium and Everose gold metal blade insert, giving the watch a sporty articulation rare among full precious-metal references. The matte black Cerachrom bezel insert, graduated in 60-minute increments and virtually scratch-proof, adds a functional racing contrast to the warm gold tone.

Beneath the caseback sits Rolex's calibre 3135, a self-winding movement with a Parachrom hairspring, Paraflex shock absorbers, and a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The movement holds chronometer certification from COSC, achieving accuracy of -2/+2 seconds per day. It is a movement Rolex has refined continuously since 1988, and its longevity in the catalogue speaks to engineering conservatism done right.

Among collectors, the 116655 occupies an interesting position: it is accessible enough to be a first serious gold Rolex, yet specific enough — full Everose, Oysterflex, Cerachrom — to attract buyers who have already owned multiple stainless-steel references. It rarely generates the frenzied secondary-market premiums of the steel sport models, which in collector circles can actually work in its favour as a genuine-use luxury tool watch.

For a politician of Erice's standing in the Philippines, the Yacht-Master 116655 is a considered choice — present without being ostentatious, and recognisable to those who know watches without demanding attention from those who don't. On the current grey market, the reference trades close to or slightly above its retail position, reflecting steady rather than speculative demand.