The difference between the genuine Rolex Yacht-Master 42 226627-0001 and the Clean Factory version.
Clean Factory 226627 – Grade 5 Titanium Yacht-Master – First in the market with ceramic tube inserts in the bracelet! Ceramic tubes! Ceramic tubes!
In June 2024, Clean Factory acquired the genuine 226627 and spent nearly a year developing it. Finally, the titanium Yacht-Master is here. For Rolex, using titanium is unprecedented, and they strictly chose Grade 5 titanium — a special material widely used in aerospace and medical industries. Rolex always tends to go above and beyond: while Patek Philippe uses 316L steel, Rolex insists on standing out with 904L.
Of course, the biggest challenge in development was that Clean also used real Grade 5 titanium, verifiable through spectrometer testing. The titanium grade can even be visually distinguished by its color — enthusiasts can look this up for more information.
Clean hopes its rigorous watchmaking approach will be recognized by everyone.
Although the Yacht-Master isn’t the most popular model, Clean still put in the effort to perfectly present the craftsmanship of Grade 5 titanium — a reflection of Clean’s commitment to quality.
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Watch Head Weight: Exactly the same as the original at 57g — not even a fraction off.
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Bracelet Weight: Genuine version is 49g; Clean’s version is 52g (due to protective film, actual difference is only around 2g).
For the clasp development, the original Rolex welding points were found to be a bit loose, which could risk detachment. Clean reinforced this part for added reliability.
Overall, the 2–3g difference is imperceptible on the wrist.
The brushing on the case and bracelet is nearly identical to the original.
As for the ceramic bezel, bracelet, dial, and hands — Clean has already mastered these, especially considering they’ve been leading the market with other Yacht-Master models.
The cost of materials has gone up — working with Grade 5 titanium is far more challenging than regular metals. So the price will be a few hundred RMB higher. We hope watch enthusiasts will understand and appreciate the quality behind it.
