why rolex yacht master 2 not popular

Thursday, April 25, 2024

Rolex Discontinues The Yacht-Master II

About Jake's Rolex World Terms of Use

INSIDE ROLEX

Rolex Yacht-Master II Ultimate Buying Guide

In the exclusive world of luxury timepieces, the Rolex Yacht-Master II stands as an example of opulence and precision engineering. Since its unveiling in 2007, it has not simply followed the footsteps of its prized predecessor but has charted a new course in luxury timepieces. This masterpiece blends the functional demands of regatta timing with the uncompromising quality synonymous with the Rolex name. Its signature feature, a programmable countdown with on-the-fly synchronization, showcases Rolex’s commitment to innovation, tailored specifically for the strategic demands of yacht racing.

Rolex Yacht-Master II in Stainless Steel and Rolesor Everose Gold

As we look into its history, features, and most sought-after models, this guide is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Whether you’re looking to invest in a luxury timepiece or expand an existing collection, the Rolex Yacht-Master II represents a pinnacle of horological craftsmanship, a tangible asset that surpasses time and trends. Read on to learn all there is to know about the Rolex Yacht-Master II. <> <>

A Brief History of the Rolex Yacht-Master II

The Rolex Yacht-Master II , introduced in 2007, marked a significant evolution in Rolex’s line of luxury watches, diverging from the brand’s typically conservative design ethos. It was a striking departure from its predecessor, the Yacht-Master, representing a bold new direction in both aesthetics and functionality.

Rolex Yacht-Master II with Yacht-Master Models

The original models of the Yacht-Master II were the 18k yellow gold ref 116688 and the even more luxurious 18k white gold version with a platinum bezel, ref 116689. These models showcased a large, eye-catching design that was an immediate topic of debate among watch enthusiasts. While some admired its noticeable presence, others viewed it as a deviation from Rolex’s traditional design roots.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Steel Everose Gold

Responding to the changing economic landscape following the 2008 financial crash, Rolex expanded the Yacht-Master II collection in 2011 with the introduction of the ref. 116681, a more affordable Everose Rolesor model. This model featured a stainless steel case and outer bracelet links combined with an Everose gold winding crown, pushers, and central bracelet links. The collection further broadened its appeal in 2013 with the introduction of the all-steel version, ref. 116680, which also debuted a new caliber, the Cal. 4161, replacing the former Cal. 4160.

Rolex Cerachrom Bezel Watches - Yachtmaster II, Daytona, GMT-Master II

The only notable design update since its launch occurred in 2017, on the watch’s tenth anniversary. This update included changes to the hour markers and hands, namely the blue hour marker surrounds replaced with white gold, the 12 o’clock marker changed to an inverted triangle, and a taller marker at 6 o’clock. These changes aligned the Yacht-Master II more closely with the rest of Rolex’s Professional Collection, yet the changes were subtle enough that Rolex did not assign a new reference number.

Throughout its history, the Rolex Yacht-Master II has been distinguished by its unique regatta timer function, a testament to Rolex’s commitment to innovative and functional design. This feature, along with its distinctive aesthetic, has made the Yacht-Master II a popular, though somewhat polarizing, model among collectors and luxury watch enthusiasts.

Rolex Yachtmaster II 44 Blue Cerachrom Bezel Steel Mens Watch 116680

Key Features of the Rolex Yacht-Master II

The Rolex Yacht-Master II stands out from the Rolex catalog with its massive round case and striking dial design. Here are the distinguishing features of the Rolex Yacht-Master II. <>

The Oyster Case at 44mm

The Yacht-Master II’s Oyster case measures a notable 44mm in diameter, contributing to the watch’s bold aesthetic and enhancing the dial’s legibility. This large size is practical for a sports watch, ensuring that crucial timekeeping information is always easily readable. <>

Ring Command System

One of the Yacht-Master II’s innovative features is the Ring Command System. This system integrates the bezel, crown, and internal mechanism, providing a seamless way to set and synchronize the watch’s various functions, including its unique regatta timer.

The Rolex Yacht-Master II allows the wearer to choose a countdown interval, ranging from one to ten minutes, using its programmable flyback regatta timer, displayed on the middle of the dial. Additionally, the watch can be synchronized “on the fly” with audible cues that are commonly given at the start of regatta races. <>

Rolex Yachtmaster II Regatta Chronograph Yellow Gold Men's Watch 116688

Cerachrom Insert Bezel (for steel, Rolesor, and yellow gold models)

For the steel, steel and Everose, and yellow gold models, the bezel features a blue Cerachrom insert, made from an exceptionally hard and virtually scratchproof ceramic. This material is impervious to UV rays and corrosion, ensuring the bezel’s color and finish remain pristine over time. <>

Platinum Bezel in sandblasted finish (for white gold model)

Meanwhile, the 18k white gold model boasts of a platinum Ring Command Bezel, with a sandblasted background and polished graduations. <>

Chromalight Display

The Chromalight display on the Yacht-Master II offers superior legibility in all lighting conditions, especially in the dark. This innovative feature ensures that the watch face is easily readable, which is vital during demanding activities like sailing. <>

Perpetual Caliber 4160 / 4161

At the core of the Yacht-Master II is the Perpetual Caliber 4160, and for later models the 4161, a self-winding mechanical movement developed entirely by Rolex. Known for its precision and reliability, these movements showcase of Rolex’s expertise in watchmaking, featuring a programmable countdown with a mechanical memory, crucial for timing in regattas.

Models from 2007 to 2013 use the Caliber 4160. In 2013, with the introduction of the stainless steel model, the Caliber 4161 was given additional refinements such as a crisper feel to the pushers and greater reliability. Both movements possess the blue Parachrom hairspring that protects the movement from shocks and offer 72 hours of power reserve.

<> Models of the Rolex Yacht-Master II

There are four models available for the Rolex Yacht-Master II, three of which remain in production as of 2024. The white gold ref. 116689 was discontinued in 2022 but remains available in the pre-owned market.


116689 (disc.)	18k white gold, platinum bezel
116688	18k yellow gold, Cerachrom bezel
116681	Oystersteel & everose gold, Cerachrom bezel
116680	Oystersteel, Cerachrom bezel

Rolex Yacht-Master II Stainless Steel Blue Bezel 116680

The Rolex Yacht-Master II Stainless Steel Blue Bezel 116680, introduced at Baselworld 2013, is a standout in the Yacht-Master II collection. This model features a large 44mm stainless steel case, showcasing Rolex’s expertise in crafting durable and stylish sports watches.

Its most striking feature is the blue Cerachrom bezel, a testament to Rolex’s innovation in materials, known for its scratch resistance and color permanence. The watch is equipped with the Rolex 4161 self-winding programmable flyback regatta timer movement, emphasizing its utility for sailing and regattas.

Its aesthetic is bold and extroverted, with a white dial, contrasting deep blue hands, and a red countdown hand, all contributing to its nautical theme. This model manages to balance Rolex’s high standards of functionality with a distinctive, eye-catching design. <> <>

Rolex Yachtmaster II Steel Rose Gold Mercedes Hands Mens Watch 116681

Rolex Yacht-Master II Stainless Steel and Everose Gold 116681

The Rolex Yacht-Master II Stainless Steel and Everose Gold 116681, introduced in 2011, is a striking addition to the Yacht-Master II collection. It features a unique blend of robust 904L stainless steel and luxurious 18k Everose gold, embodying both resilience and elegance.

This model stands out with its vibrant blue Cerachrom bezel and a white dial – both enhanced with Everose gold elements. The watch is equipped with the advanced Rolex Cal. 4161 movement, offering specialized functionalities like a programmable countdown timer with mechanical memory and on-the-fly synchronization, tailored for yacht racing.

The combination of two-tone metals, along with its functional complexity and sizeable 44mm case, makes the Yacht-Master II 116681 a notable and luxurious sports watch. This model has garnered attention for its blend of technical prowess and bold aesthetic appeal. <> <>

Rolex Yacht-Master II Yellow Gold 116688

The Rolex Yacht-Master II Yellow Gold 116688, launched in 2007, is a landmark in Rolex’s esteemed collection. As the pioneering model of the Yacht-Master II series, this timepiece redefined the luxury sports watch segment.

It boasts a substantial 44mm case crafted from luxurious yellow gold, exuding both elegance and strength. The watch is notable for its blue Cerachrom bezel, a material celebrated for its exceptional scratch resistance and enduring color.

Inside, it initially housed the Rolex 4160 movement, renowned for its precise regatta timer function, pivotal for yacht racing enthusiasts. In 2013, Rolex introduced an upgrade to the 4161 movement, further enhancing the watch’s performance.

The Yacht-Master II 116688 blends luxurious gold craftsmanship with functional, sports-oriented features, establishing it as a prized and distinct offering in Rolex’s portfolio. This model’s combination of opulence and utility captures the essence of Rolex’s innovation in luxury sports watch design. <> <>

Rolex Yacht-Master II White Gold Platinum Bezel 116689

The Rolex Yacht-Master II reference 116689, introduced in 2007, is a distinctive model in Rolex’s lineup, combining 18k white gold with a platinum bezel. This watch stands out for its substantial 44mm case size, making it one of Rolex’s largest offerings.

Notably, the 116689 was part of the initial Yacht-Master II launch, which marked Rolex’s venture into more complex watch designs. This model features a regatta countdown timer, which was a significant technical achievement for Rolex.

Rolex Yacht-Master II White Gold Platinum Bezel 116689 with Rolex Pearlmaster

The innovative Ring Command Bezel, directly linked to the watch’s internal movement, enables easy setting of the countdown timer. Inside, the watch initially used the Caliber 4160, which was updated to the Caliber 4161 in 2013.

The ref 116689’s unique combination of luxury materials, substantial size, and advanced functionality make it a noteworthy and potentially future classic Rolex model.

<> Final Thoughts

The Rolex Yacht-Master II series, with its unique blend of luxury, precision, and specialized functionality, offers a remarkable range of choices for collectors and enthusiasts. Whether it’s the bold statement of the Yellow Gold 116688, the innovative design of the Stainless Steel and Everose Gold 116681, or the understated elegance of the White Gold Platinum Bezel 116689, each model holds a special place in Rolex’s illustrious lineup. These watches are not only timekeeping instruments but also symbols of a luxurious lifestyle and a passion for the maritime world.

For those seeking to acquire or learn more about these exquisite timepieces, SwissWatchExpo presents an ideal destination. Their expertise and collection cater to a discerning clientele, making them a valuable resource for anyone looking to invest in a Rolex Yacht-Master II or expand their luxury watch collection.

Sporty Chic Legend Patek Philippe Aquanaut Luce Khaki Green 5267

The fastest and most secure way to protect the watches and jewelry you love.

We've minimized the paperwork and maximized protection, so you can stop worrying about your watches and jewelry and focus on enjoying them.

In most cases, you'll get a personalized quote in seconds and your policy kicks in immediately.

Wherever you are on planet Earth, your watches and jewelry are protected. Rest easy and travel safely.

If you suffer a covered loss, there's no deductible and no gimmicks. Ever.

Each of your watches and jewelry is covered up to 150% of the insured value (up to the total value of the policy).

Chopard Knows How To Make Something Beautiful From Gold – The Proof Is In The Alpine Eagle

Hands-On The Rolex Yachtmaster II Regatta Timer, Ref. 116680

The rolex yacht-master ii: for those who consider themselves rolex enthusiasts, it's one of the most polarizing watches the crown produces. and yet there is more – much more – to this relative behemoth than meets the eye. we wanted to see what would happen if we met this technically unique, programmable flyback yacht timer chronograph on its own terms – read on to join us in our journey into one of the most idiosyncratically styled and mechanically sophisticated rolexes ever made..

I’m going to be completely honest: I was thoroughly prepared to have a negative reaction to this watch. Let’s face it; it’s a head-scratcher for the average Rolex/Submariner/GMT Master/Day-Date lover. First of all it’s pretty damned big. This is a 44 mm watch; it was born a 44 mm watch and it’ll die a 44 mm watch and that is nothing you or anybody else can do about it. You can have it in four different metals, and therefore, weights, ranging from steel (heavy) to gold/steel (heavier) to solid yellow gold (even heavier) to platinum and white gold combined (Schwarzeneggerian). It has a Cerachrom bezel in an absolutely screaming shade of blue, and it says YACHT-MASTER in giant letters right across the bottom third or so just to remove any lingering shade of doubt in the minds of any small-craft skipper for leagues around that they are in the presence of, well, the Master of a Yacht; it is not an introverted watch by any stretch of the imagination.

On top of everything else, the Yacht-Master II has a complication that pretty much no watch guy or gal ever can remember what do with, or has a perceived need for: it is a regatta timer, which is about as niche a complication as you can imagine. If you get a bunch of watch nuts together there is an excellent chance that you can get a more lucid explanation out of somebody for the Equation of Time than you can for a regatta timer (which is saying something) and it says something about the relative obscurity of the complication in general, and the relative niche-ness of the Yacht-Master II in particular, that when we got it into the office we had five people who live and breathe watches sitting around scratching our heads because no one could quite remember how the darned thing works. You put all those things together and you should have a watch that a dyed-in-the-wool horological classicist should thoroughly disdain. Right?

Actually, wrong. But let’s back up a bit.

First of all this is technically a very interesting watch and it’s worth your attention just on the level of interesting horological problem solving alone. A regatta timer is used by the skipper of a yacht to determine when their vessel is allowed to cross the starting line. Sailboats can’t just hover at the starting line of a yacht race, so what happens is that the racing committee establishes a countdown period during which the boats have to tack back and forth at the starting line without actually crossing; if you cross early, there is a penalty and if you are too cautious and cross late you will probably cross the finish line behind the boats that made it over the start line ahead of you. The countdown can be anywhere from five to ten minutes depending on the rules and race.

The Yacht-Master II is a programmable, flyback regatta timer that allows you to select a countdown interval of anything from one to ten minutes; in addition if you have started the countdown early or late, you can synchronize your watch “on the fly” when you hear the second of the two audible signals which are usually given at the start of a race (the signal to start the countdown comes first, and is usually followed by a warning signal closer to the start). Here’s how it works.

To set the countdown timer, you turn the bezel (Rolex calls it the "Command Bezel") a quarter turn to the left. This locks the lower chrono pusher and engages the setting mechanism for the triangular red countdown hand. You then unscrew the crown to its first position, and set the countdown hand – setting is one-way only but at 10 minutes, if you continue to turn the crown, the countdown hand will fly back to 1 and you can continue until you reach the desired number of minutes. When you’re done, you screw the crown back down, and turn the bezel back to its starting position, and you’re ready to regatta.

When the first gun (or other audible signal) is heard, you start the countdown . . . and that’s it. Now a really neat trick here is that you may, for some reason, have started your countdown too early, or too late. If that’s the case, all you have to do is wait for the second gun/signal, and hit the re-set button – the seconds hand will fly back to the zero mark and begin running again immediately; and the minute countdown hand will fly back to the nearest minute and likewise start counting down again. It’s the fact that the flyback is to the nearest minute, not to zero, that allows you to re-synch your countdown with the official countdown time, that gives the Yacht-Master II much of its utility, and much of its technical interest.

Okay, sure it’s technically interesting – but what about the aesthetics? All I can tell you is that, much to my very pleasant surprise, it was colossally fun to wear in every sense of the word. The fact that it is so unapologetically extroverted is actually the secret to its appeal. The weight isn't a problem (at least, not for me, and not in steel) and I found I could wear it all day without discomfort despite the overall size – partly thanks to the downward curvature of the lugs, which ensured a comfortable fit on my 7 inch wrist. The sharply contrasting deep blued hands, white dial, and red countdown hand – and, yes, that bright blue bezel – give the whole watch a suitably jaunty, nautical feel and make it a pleasure to look at (and at night visibility is very good; the lume on the hands and dial is almost startlingly bright).

Yes, this is an extroverted watch, but the quality of execution is very clean and very high (as is usually the case with Rolex) and it’s so much the opposite of what I’d ordinarily wear that having it on gave a feeling almost like a Walter Mitty fantasy coming to life. I felt like a guy who’s worn a blue suit and rep tie and driven a four door Merc his whole life, who somehow one day finds himself in a pair of ripped jeans and a beat up flight jacket, cruising down some winding secondary road on an old shovelhead Harley, and suddenly catches himself thinking, My god, all the wasted years. Ultimately I started to feel that objecting to the over-the-top-ness of the Yacht-Master II was silly, even narcissistic – if you go into a Joss Whedon actioner expecting a Lars Von Trier art-house tearjerker to unspool, you probably have only yourself to blame.

It is a rationally appealing uitlitarian tool watch? I'm not the one to ask. There is no way for me to evaluate what someone who actually owns a ’36 Herreshoff classic yacht and takes it on the regatta circuit would actually think of the Yacht-Master II, or whether they would find it useful. But I can tell you that it is actually a ton of fun to wear, and a big part of the reason is the very thing many object to at first – that this is a watch that pulls no punches when it comes to being larger than life.

It has that one most essential element for something to be a successful style exercise: the courage of its convictions, and if you think of yourself resolutely as a smaller-than-forty millimeter, tasteful restraint kinda guy, get one on your wrist for a surprisingly refreshing change of pace, and you can feel larger than life too.

The Rolex Yacht-Master II 116680 as shown, $18,750, 44 mm diameter case in 904L stainless steel. Bidirectional rotatable "Command Bezel" with blue Cerachrom insert; water resistance 100 meters/10 bar.

Movement, Rolex 4161 self-winding programmable flyback regatta timer with mechanical memory and "on-the-fly" synchronization; Parachrom blue antimagnetic balance spring.

Bracelet, Oyster, flat three piece links with Oysterlock safety clasp.

More info, of course, on Rolex.com .

Introducing The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master, In 18k Everose Gold On The New "Oysterflex" Bracelet

By Hodinkee

Watching Movies Tom Selleck's Tiny Timex And Two-Tone Rolex In 'Three Men And A Baby'

By Danny milton

Seven Of Our Favorite Watches To Engrave

By James stacey

Sunday Rewind Take A Deep Dive With The Rolex Sea-Dweller 126600

Last Week’s Top Stories

Finally! The Omega x Swatch MoonSwatch Is Now Available Online

By Jonathan mcwhorter

Recommended Reading Remembering 9/11 Through The Rolex That Is 'Frozen In Time'

By Anthony traina

Introducing Apple Announces The Apple Watch Series 10 – Thinner, Larger Screen, New Tech, And New Finishes (Live Pics)

By Tantan wang

Talking Watches With Greg Yuna, New York City Jeweler And Watch Collector

By Malaika crawford

Hands-On The Unimatic Modello Uno And Modello Quattro GMTs With Japanese Movements

Shop New Arrivals

Rolex Yacht-Master II Ultimate Buying Guide

There are some Rolex watches that are more or less universally loved, with a simple and versatile aesthetic that leaves little room for any sort of animosity. However, there are others within the portfolio that almost seem to have been created specifically to invite controversy, taking the brand away from its traditional design base and into more contentious territories. The Rolex Yacht-Master II collection is one of those watches.

When it arrived in the mid-2000s, the Yachtmaster II was so far removed from anything Rolex had created before that nobody seemed to know quite what to make of it. The watch was a big, bold and extremely expensive addition to the catalog, and while it was obviously slotted into the brand’s Professional Collection, it stuck out like the proverbial sore thumb. However, that was back then. Looking at the brand’s catalog today, it seems that Rolex was simply ahead of the game.

The Yacht Master II’s once challenging looks have matured, and although it is still most definitely a visually striking watch, it is no longer considered completely over the top. Mechanically, it is also incredibly impressive. On its debut, it instantly became Rolex’s most complicated watch, with a one-of-a-kind functionality aimed at about as niche a group as you could imagine. Below we have laid out a complete guide to the Rolex Yacht-Master II with everything you need to know in order to make an informed decision.

Rolex Yacht-Master II

Yacht-Master II Key Features:

– Year Introduced: 2007

– Case Size: 44mm

– Materials: Oystersteel; Everose Rolesor; 18k Yellow Gold; 18k White Gold & Platinum

– Functions: Time w/Running Seconds, Programmable Regatta Timer w/ Mechanical Memory

– Dial: White w/ Luminous Hour Markers

– Bezel: Ring Command, Blue Ceramic or Platinum Insert w/ 10-Minute Countdown Scale

– Crystal: Sapphire (Flat)

– Movement: Rolex Caliber 4161

– Water Resistance: 100 Meters / 330 Feet

– Strap/Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet

– Retail Price: $18,750 – $48,150 USD (Approx.)

For more info, visit our guide on how to use the regatta timer on the Rolex Yacht-Master II.

Rolex Yacht-Master II 116680 Stainless Steel

Rolex Yacht-Master II History

Launched in 2007, the Rolex Yacht Master II debuted some 15-years after its original Yachtmaster namesake. However, the similarities between this watch and the model that first carried the Yacht-Master name are pretty much zero.

Where the earlier model is essentially a more luxurious take on the Rolex Submariner, the Yacht-Master II is a fully-fledged item of luxury professional sailing equipment, designed from the outset to assist skippers keep track of time during the complicated starting sequence of a regatta. That technically leaves the Yacht-Master II in the tool watch category, but this is a long way from the likes of the more utilitarian Explorer II and evidence of that can be found in its release schedule.

The first versions of the Rolex Yacht Master II to be unveiled were the 18k yellow gold ref. 116688 and the even more opulent 18k white gold version fitted with a platinum bezel, the ref. 116689. Quite a bit removed from the brand’s usually conservative styling, this large, gleaming, in-your-face effort that shouted its own name across its bezel, was an immediate opinion splitter. Traditionalists were horrified, lamenting Rolex’s continued straying from its roots, while others who enjoy having their watches noticed, embraced it wholeheartedly.

The financial crash that followed in 2008 altered the landscape for watchmakers (along with everyone else) and called for more affordable pieces to come forward. The Yachtmaster II collection expanded in 2011 with the unveiling of the ref. 116681, an Everose Rolesor model with a stainless steel case and outer bracelet links paired with a winding crown, pushers, and central links in Everose gold. That was followed by the version everyone was clamoring for in 2013 – the ref. 116680 in full stainless steel, which also introduced a new caliber, the Cal. 4161, replacing the former Cal. 4160.

The only other change the watch has undergone since then occurred on its 10th anniversary in 2017, when it was given a facelift so slight that Rolex didn’t even feel it warranted a new reference number. The square hour markers at the six and 12 o’clock were changed to a rectangle and inverted triangle respectively, and the simple stick handset was swapped for the Mercedes type to bring them in-line with much of the rest of the brand’s Professional Collection.

Rolex Yacht-Master II 116618 Two-Tone Everose Rolesor

How Much Is A Rolex Yacht-Master II?

When the Rolex Yacht-Master II first arrived, the combination of its exclusively precious metal construction and the extraordinary engineering going on inside its movement meant that it was among the most expensive offerings in Rolex’s catalog . This left many admirers priced out of the picture, but the introduction of stainless steel and two-tone references would soon open the Yacht-Master II up to a much wider range of buyers.

The Rolesor model from 2011 sacrificed some of that wall-to-wall gold for 904L stainless steel and more or less cut the asking price in half, while the full steel version dropped the retail price even further. Today, brand-new examples vary from $18,750 for the full stainless steel model up to $48,150 for the white gold and platinum version. But what about pre-owned prices?

The rather love-it-or-hate-it visuals of the Rolex Yacht Master II means that it doesn’t attract quite the same level of universal frenzy as the Daytona or Submariner. It is not completely out of the question for an authorized retailer to even have a model or two in stock, which isn’t something that can be said about the vast majority of the brand’s other sports watches. For that reason, pre-owned models do command a bit of a premium, but nowhere near as much as some of the other models in the brand’s catalog.

You can expect to pay a minimum of around $18,000 for an unworn steel piece on the secondary market, while the Everose Rolesor edition comes in closer to about $25,000. The 18k yellow gold ref. 116688 also holds pretty steady, with most examples falling somewhere in the $40,000 to $45,000 range, depending on age and overall condition. Finally, the ref. 116689 – the top-of-the-line model in white gold and platinum, is where the biggest discounts can be found. A brand-new example costs $48,150 at an authorized dealer, but an older example on the pre-owned market can often be found for just under $30,000.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Stainless Steel 116680

Rolex Yacht-Master II Design

The Yacht-Master II is arguably the least “Rolex-looking” Rolex watch ever made, which is the core reason behind why it ruffled so many feathers among purist collectors upon its release. It’s arrival took the brand down previously unexplored experimental paths, a very far cry from the sort of discreetly restrained icons present throughout the rest of its portfolio.

The Yacht-Master II is a hard-working watch with a lot of information to present and as a result, it has what initially looks like somewhat of a cluttered dial. However, a lot of that is down to a trick of the eye concerning the bezel’s 1-10 numerals being mirrored exactly around the horseshoe-shaped track on the face. This is obviously the regatta countdown scale, designed to help yacht skippers synchronize their boats’ movements with the race’s starting gun (we’ll get onto this more a little later).

What it means for the overall styling is a lot of numbers on the watch that you will not be using for the vast majority of the time you are wearing it. But while it may come across as a little jam-packed – particularly when you add in the chronograph hand, arrowhead countdown pointer, and a small running seconds sub-dial at the bottom – once you get used to it, you can’t help but be impressed with how much Rolex’s technicians have achieved with so little. No, it isn’t exactly the Explorer’s 3/6/9 arrangement, but it is perfectly readable with a little familiarity and conveys the information it provides in a clean and legible manner.

Despite only containing four models (all of which have white dials), the series actually covers a good range of tastes. The ref. 116688 could be in the running for most showy standard-production Rolex currently available, its all-yellow gold case somehow making the bright blue bezel pop even more. At the other end, the white gold and platinum ref. 116689 is as low-key and reserved as a 44mm wide, 14mm thick, highly-complicated, solid-gold sports watch can be. The virtual monochrome is lifted only by the red chrono hand and arrowed pointer.

In-between, the stainless steel and Everose Rolesor models do the job of appealing to more middle-of-the-road palates. Their color combinations, along with the mix of brushed and polished elements on the watch itself, keep it all on the right side of overdone, and the two-tone model’s bezel numerals also being filled in Everose gold is a nice touch. Unlikely to ever be described as subtle, any version of the Rolex Yacht-Master II is guaranteed to receive some attention.

Rolex Yacht-Master II 116689 White Gold Platinum Bezel

Rolex Yacht-Master II Functions

Looks aside, the big talking point around the Rolex Yacht Master II lies in what it can do. There is a strong argument against calling the watch a genuine chronograph as it doesn’t so much keep track of elapsed time in the traditional sense, as it does count backwards from a specific starting point, up to a maximum of 10-minutes.

How is that useful? It is all down to how a professional regatta gets underway. Due to the nature of wind and water, it simply isn’t possible to get a bunch of yachts all lined up at a particular spot in the ocean and have them set off at the same time. Instead, the start of a race goes in stages, with each one marked by a gunshot or other audible signal. The first is usually sounded 10-minutes before the start (although it can also be seven or even five), and the skippers must maneuver their boats back and forth in front of the line without crossing it, jockeying with the other competitors for prime position.

There follows two further preparatory signals at precise intervals, and crews must coordinate their approach so they are as close to the start point as possible at the exact moment the race officially begins. It is that pair of additional signals that call into action one of the party tricks of the Yacht-Master II’s unique complication. Should the watch fall out of sync with the regatta reference clock for any reason, a press of the lower pusher activates the flyback (or fly-forward) function, snapping the chronograph hand to the nearest minute to allow the two timers to match up again. Even more notably, it is the only mechanical watch in the world with a programmable memory, meaning the wearer can reset back to the specified original countdown point at any time.

Giving access to all this engineering virtuosity is what Rolex has dubbed its Ring Command Bezel. This was the first appearance of the concept, with the second generation taking control of the Sky-Dweller’s myriad of functions a few years later. On both models, the bezel is directly linked to the internal movement, and on the Yacht-Master II, it acts as an analogue on/off switch. Rotating it 90° unlocks the functionality and allows for the countdown timer to be set with the crown. Turning it back again locks everything in place, and engages the memory. The watch is then operated as a standard chronograph, with the top pusher activating the starts and stops, and the bottom taking charge of the reset or flyback/fly-forward functions.

For a manufacturer not renowned for the complexity of its watches (quite the opposite, in fact) Rolex’s regatta timer is a seriously impressive performer. It may have been created for an especially select group, but it is truly surprising how useful it can be to count down accurately from 10-minutes, even for those of us who may not own a yacht – particularly if you like your pasta al dente.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Two-Tone Rolesor 116681

Rolex Yacht-Master II Movement

The first run of the Rolex Yacht-Master II was powered by the in-house Caliber 4160. At the time, it was the most component-heavy movement the brand had ever created, but it was essentially a heavily reworked version of the Cal. 4130 from the Daytona. The column wheel, vertical clutch and ball-bearing rotor were all carried over from the brand’s legendary racing chronograph.

Obviously there is nothing wrong with that, and the Rolex Daytona’s movement remains one of the most reliable and accurate mass-produced chronograph calibers of the modern era. However, with the arrival of the long-awaited stainless steel Yacht-Master II in 2013, Rolex also unveiled a new mechanism, the Caliber 4161, the product of additional refinements and some 35,000 hours of development.

Made up of over 360 components, including those produced via a highly specialized fabrication process called UV-LiGA which uses ultraviolet light to build microstructures, this dedicated movement provided a crisper feel to the pushers and greater reliability. With that in mind, both the Cal. 4160 and the Cal. 4161 benefitted from Rolex advances such as the blue Parachrom hairspring, as well as providing users with a highly-respectable 72-hour power reserve and a 28,800vph balance frequency.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Stainless Steel 116680 Blue Cerachrom Bezel

Rolex Yacht-Master II Bracelet

At the present time, all of the various Rolex Yacht-Master II models are fitted with the three-link Oyster bracelet, as befits a true sports watch. On each version, the inner links have been given a high polish to match the gleaming case, while the outer links receive a satin finish to provide a contrast against the lugs.

As for material, the bracelet is crafted from the same metal as the watch head: stainless steel, yellow gold or white gold. With the Rolesor example, the innermost links are forged from Everose gold, leaving the outer side links in 904L stainless Oystersteel. Tying it all together is the Oysterlock folding clasp, equipped with the brand’s Easylink extension system that allows for approximately 5mm of tool-free bracelet adjustment, completely on the fly and without the use of any tools.

The Yacht-Master II was something of a retaliation from Rolex against decades-worth of naysayers criticizing the brand for the lack of complicated watches in its lineup. Rolex’s rebuttal, while not the most all-encompassing in terms of looks or utility, still stands as a hugely significant piece of technical dexterity. Rolex has always produced tool watches, but as the company continues to make the transition towards being a true luxury manufacturer, the tool watches it produces also take on a more luxurious nature and the Yacht-Master II perfectly embodies this. Large and uncompromising, it is perhaps the most eccentric model Rolex has to offer – and it is always happy to take center stage.

Rolex Yacht-Master II 116688 18k Yellow Gold

About Paul Altieri

Paul Altieri is a vintage and pre-owned Rolex specialist, entrepreneur, and the founder and CEO of BobsWatches.com. - the largest and most trusted name in luxury watches. He is widely considered a pioneer in the industry for bringing transparency and innovation to a once-considered stagnant industry. His experience spans over 35 years and he has been published in numerous publications including Forbes, The NY Times, WatchPro, and Fortune Magazine. Paul is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the watch industry and e-commerce, and regularly engages with other professionals in the industry. He is a member of the IWJG, the AWCI and a graduate of the GIA. Alongside running the premier retailer of pre-owned Rolex watches, Paul is a prominent Rolex watch collector himself amassing one of the largest private collections of rare timepieces. In an interview with the WSJ lifestyle/fashion editor Christina Binkley, Paul opened his vault to display his extensive collection of vintage Rolex Submariners and Daytonas. Paul Altieri is a trusted and recognized authority in the watch industry with a proven track record of expertise, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

Bob's Watches Blog Updates

Bob's Watches / Rolex Blog / Watch Buying Guides

13 Best Summer Watches

Rectangular Rolex Watches: Everything You Need To Know

Is the Rolex Milgauss a Good Investment?

Tudor Pelagos

Tudor Pelagos 25600TN Black Dial

Rolex Sky-Dweller

Rolex Sky-Dweller 326933 White Dial

Speedmaster

Used Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Chronograph 42MM

Forum Listing
Marketplace
Advanced Search
Watch Brands
Rolex & Tudor

Why isn't the Yachtmaster I more popular?

Add to quote

Rolex noob here. I've been eyeing a Yachtmaster I for the longest time. Can someone tell me why it never appreciated as much as a 25 year old Submariner? Based on precious metals content alone, the Yachtmaster I seems like it should be worth more than a Sub. I know you can write a whole treatise on why Submariners are in high demand, but I'm just curious as to why the Yachtmaster never saw that level of popularity after it was discontinued?

Your girlfriend is purdy!

Too heavy, too Blingy and too overpriced.

It looks too much like a.Grand Invicta.

olikatz said: ... but I'm just curious as to why the Yachtmaster never saw that level of popularity after it was discontinued? Click to expand...

Strike that.

It is not that the Yachtmaster isn't popular. It's just that the Submariner is super duper popular and in very high demand. The Submariner is the quintessential dive watch, the dive watch where all other dive watches are compared to. On the other hand, no company makes a sailing or yachting watch. I see the occasional YM in the marina. It's for old men and rich ladies to wear their beater sports Rolex. [emoji23] By the way, the YM isn't discontinued. You must be thinking that since the YM II is out. Just check out the Rolex page and you can see that the standard YM is still around in a different colour dial or different case material, mostly gold or platinum. At the end of the day, I think it's a matter of personal preference. They are a Rolex after all. Buy it if you like it.

Dogbert_is_fat said: ...On the other hand, no company makes a sailing or yachting watch. I see the occasional YM in the marina. It's for old men and rich ladies to wear their beater sports Rolex. [emoji23] ... Click to expand...

You or I have no idea just what the sales figures are for the Yachtmaster, or any other model for that matter, as Rolex doesn't release sales figures for specific models. What you can surmise is that YM owners don't feel the need to congregate on internet watch forums in any large numbers, posting photos and bragging about their acquisitions and wondering about the rising and falling secondary market prices. If Rolex is still offering them, you might conclude that sales are high enough to warrant continued production, whatever that number is.

Kawika said: You or I have no idea just what the sales figures are for the Yachtmaster, or any other model for that matter, as Rolex doesn't release sales figures for specific models. What you can surmise is that YM owners don't feel the need to congregate on internet watch forums in any large numbers, posting photos and bragging about their acquisitions and wondering about the rising and falling secondary market prices. If Rolex is still offering them, you might conclude that sales are high enough to warrant continued production, whatever that number is. Click to expand...

My opinion only, the YM costs more and doesn't have a unidirectional bezel or as good of water resistance as a sub so for the price difference I'd rather have a sub.

100,200,300, 3900m what difference is it going to make to you?

Im all for YM 40. Especially in second hand market. I wouldn’t buy one new. It still has slim case and interesting dial color options compared to current sub (everyone’s uncles & cousins own one).

The rhodium dial Yachtmaster is simply stunning. I actually think it does a better job than the Submariner in being the one watch to have (if you only want one watch). It bridges the dressy (with the polished centre links) and casual. Personally I would have the numbers indented like the sub rather than raised. May be with the edges of the numbers chamfered to make it more dressy.

The Submariner has a more adventurous ethos, gotten from history and Hollywood. Navy Seals, underwater explorers, and James Bond all wore Submariners. The YM can’t match that. We live in an informal age. The YM is a little too flashy for most. I really loved and miss the white dial YM.

LINVS said: The Submariner has a more adventurous ethos, gotten from history and Hollywood. Navy Seals, underwater explorers, and James Bond all wore Submariners. The YM can't match that. We live in an informal age. Click to expand...

Simple answer: price. Based on 2019 price list, a Sub Date is 7,800 € versus a YM SS-Platinum 10,800 € wich is 550 € less than the price of a Daytona C 11,350 €. De facto, a models in the lower bracket prices being accessible to more people is more scarce due to higher sales and higher demand. Even the TT YM is more expensive than the TT Sub, that's 13,100 € versus 12,350 €, not a big difference, but still enough to consider that Rolex has placed the YM at a different level.

YM has a higher level of finishing and comfort compared to the sub. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I have the rhodium YM I along with subs. The YM is a pretty nice watch. As has been stated, it’s the Thurston Howell, III of the Sub line and was meant to be so. I wear it with a suit to work all of the time and save my Subs for the weekend.

playinwittime said: I have the rhodium YM I along with subs. The YM is a pretty nice watch. As has been stated, it's the Thurston Howell, III of the Sub line and was meant to be so. I wear it with a suit to work all of the time and save my Subs for the weekend. Click to expand...

Analog watch Watch Watch accessory Fashion accessory Jewellery

I think it has a lot to do with image and naming, the sub has more mass appeal and just the name 'yatchmaster' invokes an image of eiitism / snobbery, it is a shame because the rhodium dial YM is a stunning watch.

I love YMI but YM II is just a different level of ugly. Sent from my SM-N975F using Tapatalk

It strikes me as a ladies watch. It is completely devoid of all the qualities that have made Rolex a great brand. In my opinion that is also the case with most of the new 6 digit references. However that’s a very controversial statement, and I don’t want to start a fight!

CellestinoHernendes said: ...and I don't want to start a fight! Click to expand...

The YM has an ugly bezel. Simple answer. The new gold and rubber YM with the great looking black bezels are sexy as all get out. It’s completely the ugly bezel. Along with a higher price for no apparent reason. Dirty South OoO Bro

AL9C1 said: The YM has an ugly bezel. Simple answer. The new gold and rubber YM with the great looking black bezels are sexy as all get out. It's completely the ugly bezel. Along with a higher price for no apparent reason. Dirty South OoO Bro Click to expand...

It’s blingy, quirky and outdated in a time where simplicity is favoured. It is the ‘90’s era TAG Heuer’ of the Rolex catalogue. + it kind of says you have a very small yacht. These problems were addressed with the 2019 release. (which is not as good as the ceramic sea master)

Bluco said: It's blingy, quirky and outdated in a time where simplicity is favoured. It is the '90's era TAG Heuer' of the Rolex catalogue. + it kind of says you have a very small yacht. Click to expand...

The average rolex owner does not own yachts and an average yacht owner does not wear a pleb's watch like rolex.

Strange, all my yacht owners friends wear Rolexes when they are on their boats, but, out of curiosity, what does yours wear?

Lots of Rolex models are not popular with the watch enthusiast community: the Day-Date, the DateJust, the Sky-Dweller (other than blue/stainless), precious metal models other than those with cutesy nicknames like the Platona or Smurf, the Yacht-Master II, and yes, the Yacht-Master. Including an indifference towards ladies models, the enthusiast community pans at least three-quarters of Rolex production. The enthusiast community likes tough stainless steel models with brushed cases on oyster bracelets with brushed center links and wants the model to have a history of badassity. Some deviations from this are ok if they make sense, but this is the formula. Fanciness for its own sake is heavily discouraged. To create the Yacht-Master, Rolex took the Submariner, the epitome of what enthusiasts love, and they polished the case, and they polished the center links, and they threw away the functional industrial bezel and replaced it with a precious metal fashion show bezel. This was anathema to enthusiasts! And worse, the original Yacht-Master was the 16628, all yellow gold only. The Yacht-Master is a great watch though, and you should get one if it's what you want.

Attachments

Sailing Water transportation Sail Sailing Boat

VicLeChic said: <snip> The first Rolesium with platinum dial ref 16622 was launched in 1999 and discontinued in 2016 when its succesor 116622 took over. The 16622 was a huge success back in the early 2000s with waiting lists. Celebrities were wearing it. <snip> Click to expand...

The YM is popular, but it's a very different watch from a Sub. - Yachtmaster -> Lifestyle watch. You wear this while having cocktails with friends on the aft deck. - Submariner -> Tool watch. This is what your teenage to young adult sons wear while playing in the water as you and your friends have cocktails on the aft deck.

Gunnar_917 said: ^^ tells the truth on Internet forums Click to expand...

Black5 said: Fits the formula of a bait thread. Identify parochial target audience - Rolex afficionado's. Say something subjectively offensive about the object of their affections - unpopular, ugly, poor value retention etc. Identify equivalent or larger antithesis - Rolex has many detractors, so this was easy. State an unverified opinion as fact - unpopular, discontinued. Invite opinions Get popcorn. Subscribed... So many watches, So little time... Click to expand...

Analog watch Watch Watch accessory Wrist Fashion accessory

Not sure about the old ones. I would say the new models have a limited steel only selection and even at that they are close to $19k for the YMII plus it is a 44mm. I do think the YM40 is a great looking watch, especially with the blue face, but it is 12,000. most people would prefer a $9k Hulk

If MOST people have a hulk then to me there's no better reason to go for a YM.

?
23.1M posts
592.8K members

Top Contributors this Month

Rolex Yacht-Master VS Yacht-Master II.

A detailed comparison on these two luxurious Rolex sport watches.

The Yachtmaster II and Yachtmaster 40mm are both great sports watches especially with professional sailors and yacht racers. They both are classy and sporty at the same time. But what are the key differences and what makes these two watches special in their own way? Have a look below at a detailed description of the differences.

Rolex Yacht-Master VS Yacht-Master II

Let's take a look at one of the latest and most spoken about Rolex Yachtmaster watches, the 116655. This watch is a special watch for many reasons. Namely, this is a historical landmark for Rolex since it is the first Rolex watch to ever use a rubber strap. Most people wouldn't bat an eye at the idea of a Rolex with a rubber strap so why the fuss? This is not any typical rubber strap. Rolex has been raving about this new rubber Oysterflex bracelet which is not only very comfortable to wear, it is also hypoallergenic.

The research and development team at Rolex has engineered a bracelet that is as easy to wear as a rubber bracelet but also holds its shape like a metal bracelet. They do this by using nickel-and-titanium inserts inside the band. They also instituted a patented shape on the inside of the bracelet which has a cushioning system built-in to it which allows the bracelet to take the natural shape of a wrist making the Oysterflex possible the most comfortable rubber watch band. An Oysterlock safety clasp keeps the watch from opening and looks stunning in 18ct Everose gold. Everose gold is a patented 18kt pink gold alloy that is unique to Rolex watches and has been used with all their pink gold oyster cases since 2005.

You'll also find a black matte Cerachrom dial which is a hardened ceramic material that is a tough and highly scratch resistant material that has anticorrosive properties and is impervious to discoloration from exposure to Ultra Violet rays. Perfect for spending your days relaxing on the deck of a luxury yacht.

The dial on the Rolex Yacht-Master 116655 with its cyclops date magnifier could be passed as that of a Submariner if it weren't for all the Everose gold used. You can find this material used on the rims of the index hour markers, the Rolex logo, and luminous filled hands. You won't find rose gold on the dial of any watch in the Submariner series (yet?). The combination of black and Everose gold is a real eye-grabber giving this the look of a really luxurious watch.

What's running inside this stunning watch? The Yacht-Master 40mm runs off an automatic Rolex perpetual movement, the Rolex caliber 3135. This 31 jewel movement beats at 28,800 vph and has a power reserve of about 50 hours.

Rolex Yachtmaster II

At a glance, this watch is an impressive piece of eye-candy with a polished case and two-tone rose gold and stainless steel bracelet. The design used vibrant colors from the blue Cerachrom bezel to the rose gold pushers and patented Triplock crown. The white dial is equally full of harmonic colors with blue steel hour, minute and subdial seconds hands and rose gold and red chronograph hands. A rose gold rimmed sub-dial and applied rose gold rimmed index hour markers tie it all together.

A unique feature of the Yachtmaster II is the regatta chronograph and features the world's first mechanical programmable countdown with a memory. You can accurately sync the watch with the starting sequence of a yacht race.

Unlike most bezels which don't operate as a component of the movement, the easy-to-use and bi-directional Ring Command bezel on the Yachtmaster II operates in conjunction with the regatta chronograph as an integral component of the movement. This bezel is the method in which you can synchronize the countdown timer to the start times of a race. Each time you press the button you can adjust the timer by one-minute increments for up to a 10-minute countdown timer. When you adjust the rotating bezel back to its default middle position, it resets the chronograph back to its main function.

This COSC certified Swiss chronometer is the self-winding caliber 4161 automatic movement beats at 28,800 vph and is completely manufactured by Rolex. This movement features the Rolex antimagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. After receiving a COSC certified chronometer certification, the movement the goes through a thorough in-house chronometric testing once installed into a watch case. Once the watch achieves a precision of -2/+2 seconds per day in the case, it gets a Rolex Superlative Chronometer designation. Even with all these mechanical features, the 31 jewel caliber 4161 movement holds its power for 72 hours.

Rolex Yacht-Master VS Yacht-Master II - Side By Side Comparison

Have a question about a watch call us at 1-800-470-2343 or 1-845-357-8300.


	Rolex	Rolex
	Yacht-Master II 44mm	Yacht-Master 40mm
	116681 White	116655
	Mens	Mens
	Stainless Steel & Rose Gold	18kt Everose Gold
	White	Black
	Stainless Steel & Rose Gold	Rubber
	Folding Clasp With Safety Latch	18 kt Everose® gold Oysterlock safety clasp
	Automatic	Automatic
	Bi-Directional Rotating	Bi-Directional Rotating
	Scratch Resistant Sapphire	Scratch Resistant Sapphire
	Solid	Solid
	100m/330ft	100m/330ft
	44mm	40mm
	Regatta Chronograph
	Prestige Time 5 Year Warranty	Prestige Time 5 Year Warranty
	Browse	Browse

View All Rolex Collections & Series

If you enjoyed this comparison and feel that others would enjoy it too, please like and share it. Thanks!

Comparisons

A buying guide to most popular Rolex Yacht-Master Models

Guide To Popular Rolex Yacht-Master Models

Rolex debuted the Yacht-Master watch in 1992 as a luxury sports watch crafted in precious gold yet durable enough for an active life at sea. The nautical-inspired Rolex watch featured a rotating timing bezel, a water-resistance rating of 100 meters, and a time and date dial. The Yacht-Master shared many design traits with the famed Submariner watch—such as a similar dial layout, case silhouette, and bracelet style—but it was a touch more luxurious thanks to its own set of design details. Over the course of its history, the Rolex Yacht-Master collection has expanded into a varied lineup with watches offered in several sizes, materials, and colors. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular Rolex Yacht-Master watches, ranging from discontinued models to current-production ones.

Where it all began:

The very first Yacht-Master model that Rolex released was a full yellow gold version. It sported a 40mm yellow gold case, a yellow gold rotating bezel with raised numerals, and a yellow gold three-link Oyster bracelet. Two years later in 1994, Rolex followed it up with two other yellow gold models—a ladies’ 29mm version and a midsize 35mm version. While Rolex no longer produces full yellow gold Yacht-Master models, they remain popular in the secondary market.

In 2015, Rolex introduced the very first Everose gold (the brand’s own rose gold pink alloy) Yacht-Master. However, rather than a full gold model, the Everose gold Yacht-Master models (available in 40mm and 37mm) included black ceramic bezels with raised numerals and a brand new black rubber-clad metal band called the Oysterflex bracelet. Dial options include sleek black and lavish diamond-paved. It’s also worth mentioning that there are some rare Everose gold Yacht-Master 40 models furnished with rotating bezels set with multi-colored precious gems (diamond, sapphire, and tsavorite).

Here is a flamboyant version of it of the Everose gold Yacht-Master 40:

Finally, in 2019, Rolex released the first white gold Yacht-Master watch. Not only is this the only white gold Yacht-Master model ever made, but with its 42mm case, it is also the largest.

Similar to the Everose gold model, the white gold Yacht-Master is fitted with a black ceramic bezel and black Oysterflex bracelet, along with a black dial.

Prices (current collection):

Everose Gold Yacht-Master 37 ref. 268655: $23,250 - 41,000
Everose Gold Yacht-Master 40 ref. 126655: $27,300 – 47,150
White Gold Yacht-Master 40 ref. 226659: $28,900

Rolesium Rolex Yacht-Master Models

In 1999, Rolex presented a new metal combination the brand called Rolesium, which brings together stainless steel and platinum on one watch. Like the yellow gold models, the Rolesium Yacht-Master models were offered in 40mm, 35mm, and 29mm versions.

Regardless of the size, all the watches include stainless steel cases, stainless steel Oyster bracelets, and platinum rotating bezels with raised numerals. Particular popular versions of the Rolesium Yacht-Master watches are those with sandblasted platinum dials—although discontinued, these platinum dial Yacht-Masters are still widely available in the pre-owned market.

Currently, Rolex still makes steel and platinum Yacht-Master watches. However, size options have been scaled down to 40mm and 37mm since Rolex stopped making 29mm or 35mm versions of the Yacht-Master around 2015. The Rolesium Yacht-Master 40 offers the choice between a rhodium gray or a blue dial while the Rolesium Yacht-Master 37 only comes with a rhodium gray dial.

Prices (current collection):

Rolesium Yacht-Master 37 ref. 268622: $11,250
Rolesium Yacht-Master 40 ref. 126622: $12,000

Rolesor Rolex Yacht-Master Models

Rolesor is the term Rolex gives to its models that mix gold and steel details—better known as two-tone watches. The first two-tone Yacht-Master watches, which featured steel cases topped with yellow gold bezels and steel Oyster bracelets with yellow gold center links, were launched in the mid-1990s. However, Rolesor Yacht-Master watches were first only offered in midsize (35mm) and ladies (29mm) sizes. The men’s 40mm two-tone yellow gold and stainless steel Yacht-Master joined the lineup in the early 2000s. Rolex stopped making yellow gold and steel Yacht-Master models a few years back but the brand has replaced them with another Rolesor option—two-tone Everose gold and steel ones. The current-production two-tone Yacht-Master models include stainless steel cases topped with Everose gold bezels and stainless steel Oyster bracelets with Everose gold center links. The Everose Rolesor models are available with 40mm or 37mm cases and both sizes offer the option between a black or brown dial.

Everose Rolesor Yacht-Master 37 ref. 268621: $13,150
Everose Rolesor Yacht-Master 40 ref. 126621: $14,500

In less than three decades, the Yacht-Master has grown to become Rolex’s most diverse sports watch collection, offering a vast assortment of sizes and styles for both men and women. From the discontinued models to the current-production ones, the Yacht-Master’s distinct combination of luxury and robustness has paved the way for its enduring popularity.

Find out more:

To find out more about which Rolex hold their value you can read more of our guides where we cover all Rolex Nicknames or our classic guide to the Day Date models and our comparision with their sister brand: Rolex vs Tudor .

Subscribe our newsletter for more news related content and find our quick comparitive guides to help you decide which watch you should buy next:

Breitling vs Rolex

Cartier vs Rolex

Audemars Piguet vs Rolex

Tag Hurer vs Rolex

Latest Releases

Free Worldwide Shipping above USD 149 or 149€

• Submariner
• Sea-Dweller
• Explorer I 36 & 39mm
• Air-King 40mm
• Oyster Perpetual 36 & 39mm
• Yacht-Master
• DateJust 36mm
• Seamaster Diver 300m
• Seamaster Aqua Terra 39mm & 41,5mm
• Seamaster Diver 300m Chronographe 41,5mm
• Seamaster Railmaster 39mm & 41mm
• Tag Heuer Aquaracer Calibre 5
For JAEGER LECOULTRE®
For MEISTERSINGER®
For VERTEX®
Universal Straps
• Watch Rolls
• Watch Pouches
• Rubber Straps Bundles
• Accessories Bundles
• ZEALANDE®
• Our Ambassadors
• Trouver un Revendeur ZEALANDE®
• Become a ZEALANDE® Retailer
• Caring for your ZEALANDE® straps
• We're talking about the watches we love...
• They talk about us...

WHY ISN'T THE YACHT-MASTER MORE POPULAR?

In the world of luxury watches, Rolex is a watch brand that almost certainly crops up. With their endless list of iconic and timeless pieces such as the Submariner, Daytona, Explorer and Datejusts, it’s easy for some of their other pieces to be missed and left in the shadows. The Rolex Yacht Master is a watch that perfectly blends the Datejusts and Submariner together, two well-loved pieces yet the combination of them to form the Yacht master seems not to be as loved. The Yacht master is nevertheless a fantastic watch but often gets overlooked, today we will explore the potential reasons behind this.

Source : Hodinkee

You can almost think of the Yacht-master kind of like a sports SUV, it is not as fast as a sports car nor as comfortable as a traditional big luxury 4x4, but yet there is a market for them.

That’s exactly where the Yacht master sits. It cannot go diving to the same 300m as the Submariner nor can it be worn as well as a Datejust with a suit, but the YatchM-aster can still go diving to 100m and the polished centre links make it possible to wear with a suit no problem.

Yes, the Yacht Master is not sold in the same quantities as the Submariner which alone shows it may not be Rolex’s most loved timepiece by people, but that does not mean to say it is a bad watch by any stretch of the imagination.

Products featured in the article

Rubber strap for rolex® yacht-master (5 digits).

Rubber Strap for ROLEX® Yacht-Master (5 Digits) For Deployant Buckle

Rubber Strap for ROLEX® Yacht-Master (6 Digits)

Rubber Strap for ROLEX® Yacht-Master (6 Digits) For Deployant Buckle

RUBBER STRAP FOR ROLEX� YACHT-MASTER (6 DIGITS) ZEALANDE

The Rolex Yacht-Master: A timeless, customisable design

Rolex is renowned for its timeless designs that seamlessly blend sophistication with functionality. This is where the Yacht-Master's aesthetics come out to shine, its elegance and sporty case give it a distinct unique look. Whilst not as loved as the Submariners, many people have one so having something more unique might be what you are looking for. Comparing it to the Submariner again, you have the choice between a blue, grey or matt black or chocolate dial with a touch or red or Miami blue respectively. Not only that, you get three size options to choose from, a 37mm, 40mm or 42mm which pretty much means anyone can get the perfect sized Yacht master for their wrist. Something that may not be a rare option on Rolex’s classic models like the Datejust, but the Submariner, well you’ve only got one choice and if it doesn’t fit…Too bad!!

The Watch Of The Open Seas: History Of The Rolex Yacht-Master

Instagram: @rolex

In the year 1992, Swiss watchmaker Rolex would debut a new model line at the Baselworld show that was strikingly similar to the already-popular Submariner. It featured the same 40mm Oyster case with a rotating bezel, the same chronometer-certified caliber, and the same Oyster bracelet.

Seemingly the only difference between the two was the white dial of that first Yacht-Master, a style which has never been an option on a Sub, and the inferior depth rating of 100m when compared to the Sub’s 300m.

Yet, the Yacht-Master was well-received upon launch, and with the passing of time, the yachting-inspired model has evolved and pioneered its own path within Rolex’s catalog.

Read on with us as we go back to the beginning and track the catalysts that paved the way for the most recent Yacht-Master release, the Yacht-Master 42 (226659), to become one of the hottest sports timepieces of the year.

History Of The Rolex Yacht-Master

We’ve broken down our overview of the Yacht-Master into the following segments:

Release Of The Yacht-Master

The Submariner/Yacht-Master Theory

Mid-Size & Ladies’ Yacht-Master
Platinum (Rolesium) Yacht-Master

The Maxi Dial Yacht-Master

Two-Tone Rolesor Yacht-Master

The Yacht-Master II

Six-Digit Yacht-Master

The Oysterflex Yacht-Master

Keep scrolling to read this guide from its beginning, or use the links above to jump down to a specific point.

Browse Bob’s Watches Rolex Catalogue

The Release Of The Yacht-Master

The first Yacht-Master watch was launched in 1992 under reference number 16628. It featured a yellow gold case, a bidirectional graduated bezel, and a matching full-gold Oyster bracelet. Its dial was white with black hour indices, while at center were gold Mercedes hands, and beating inside was the 3135 movement.

Rolex ref. 16628. Instagram: @m_j_watches

Previous to the Yacht-Master’s introduction, Rolex had not released a new model line in a quarter century. So, why did they go with the Yacht-Master, a design that risked being a detractor from their existing Submariner? Let’s take a look at the inspiration.

The sport of yachting is one which demands precise timing and extreme coordination of the entire crew for optimal performance, particularly in offshore competitions.

Vintage Rolex Daytona Yacht-Master Prototype

Prototype Daytona Yacht-Master ref. 6239. Image: Christies.com

Rolex believed their waterproof and chronometer-grade timepieces to be more than qualified to handle the knocks of a regatta and keep ticking accurately. The brand is also notorious for their marketing prowess, which led them to act quickly in establishing an association with the sport.

Beginning in 1958 with their first sponsorship of a race, the relationship has endured until today, when the brand sponsors over a dozen international yachting events.

Nevertheless, it’s hard to deny that there exists a large gap between first contact in 1958 and the release of the yacht-inspired timepiece in the early ’90s. Why wasn’t the Yacht-Master released earlier on?

Well, Rolex played around with the idea of yachting chronograph early on, though it never materialized. All that’s left of these trials are an extremely limited number of Daytona ref. 6239 chronograph prototypes with a 39mm case (vs standard 36mm) and modified regatta dials.

Unfortunately, the Yacht-Master concept was scrapped and would not reappear until decades later.

When it did return, none of the previous Yacht-Master’s DNA was there. Furthermore, the 1992 Yacht-Master was bizarrely similar to the 16610 Sub of the time.

Interestingly enough, Rolex folklore tells of a time in the ’80s when the brand sought to update their Submariner . What resulted was less of an update and more of an overhaul, manifested as what we know now as the first Yacht-Master.

Apprehensive of the repercussions that making such aggressive design changes to their staple offering could bring, the brand chose instead to release the watch intended to be a new Submariner as the reborn Yacht-Master instead.

The move worked, and the new Yacht-Masters started flying off the shelves. The Yacht-Master was perceived as a more luxurious Sub, though its bidirectional bezel proved useful for on-the-fly countdowns which are critical in sailing competitions. The waterproof nature of the Oyster case further cemented the Yacht-Master as the ideal first mate.

Mid-Size & Ladies’ Yacht-Master

In 1994, just two years after the debut of the 16628, Rolex would introduce the same design but in smaller case sizes. These were:

Ref. 68628: Yacht-Master “Mid-Size” in 35mm
Ref. 69628: Yacht-Master Ladies’ in 29mm

This marked the first time that Rolex ever offered one of their sports models in a smaller case size; all previous instances of case size changes were increases as opposed to reductions. It has been speculated that the smaller cases were intended for the Asian market.

Yacht-Master ref. 16628. Instagram: @thewatchcentre

In the same year, Rolex also offered the same 16628 but this time with a deep blue dial. Blue dials tend to make for broadly-liked watches, and coupled with the gold case and bracelet, the new version was once again a hit.

The Platinum (Rolesium) Yacht-Master

The next update to the model line would come in 1999 with yet another home-run: the Rolesium Yacht-Master. The new watch featured a stainless steel case and bracelet with a platinum dial and platinum-insert bezel. Rolesium, a term registered by Rolex back in the ’30s for a combination of steel and platinum in a watch, was finally put to use.

The new platinum Yacht-Master ref. 16622 was not only more accessible than the previous all-gold varieties, it was also more versatile. This would lead the 16622 variety to become the face of the Yacht-Master line.

In fact, many online resources erroneously label it the first Yacht-Master ever; this should offer an idea of how emblematic it is in the watch industry.

The 16622 also presented a new dial and hand style that would mark Rolex as a whole through to the modern day. The new Yacht-Master boasted what is now recognized as the “maxi dial”.

Yellow Gold Rolex Yacht-Master Blue Dial 16628

Rolex Yacht-Master 16628 w/ maxi dial. Instagram: @kellokonttori

The maxi dial is characterized by oversized hour indices as well as larger hands at center. To the untrained eye, the difference may be difficult to spot, though experienced collectors will note the change instantly.

The maxi dial became the style of choice for all modern Rolex sports watches, though it got its start in the 1999 platinum Yacht-Master. A Submariner would first feature a maxi dial in 2003, with the release of the 50th anniversary Rolex Submariner “Kermit” (16610LV).

All versions of the Yacht-Master produced after the introduction of the maxi dial would also feature the new dial design. This included the blue, gold, and white dial versions from years past.

The Two-Tone (Rolesor) Yacht-Master

Six years after the Rolesium Yacht-Master came to be, Rolex would once more put on display their mixed-metal Rolesor style in the two-tone Yacht-Master 16623.

Two-Tone Rolex Yacht-Master Blue Dial 16823

Yacht-Master ref. 16623. Instagram: @v.davidofftimepieces

The 2005 debuts possessed a 40mm steel case, a yellow gold bidirectional bezel, and a two-tone Oyster bracelet. As far as dials, many of the previous styles were also available like the black-on-white, though mother of pearl version were also introduced.

It was during Baselworld 2007 when Rolex would introduce the Yacht-Master’s younger and much larger sibling, the Yacht-Master II. Whereas the original Yacht-Master was very close functionally to the Sub, the Yacht-Master II was completely the opposite.

It can be said that the only overlap between the YM and the YMII is be the name, as the second iteration looks like a whole new watch. This time, though, it’s clear that the watch has been designed with the needs of yachting professionals in mind.

The first Yacht-Master II were marked by a 44mm Oyster case, an Oyster bracelet, a white dial, and a blue Cerachrom (ceramic) Ring Command bezel. The first two references, 116688 and 116689, were made of yellow gold and white gold, respectively.

Powering the YMII was another innovation – Rolex’s in-house calibre 4161. It features the COSC-chronometer certification and 72-hour power reserve that are today’s standard, though they were industry-leading at the time. Most notable, though, was the 4161 movement’s functions.

The new caliber boasted a “ programmable countdown with mechanical memory and on-the-fly synchronization. ” Naturally, the programming of the movement required the use of the Ring Command bezel, a feature which had also never been encountered on a Rolex watch before.

In later years, Rolex would go on to release Rolesor and full-steel versions of the Yacht-Master II, both of which have been relatively successful. The Yacht-Master II has certainly earned a spot in the brand’s catalog, and is sure to stick around for next couple of decades.

The Six-Digit Yacht-Master

Yacht-Master 116622

Twenty years after it debuted as the 16628, the Yacht-Master would see in 2012 the modernization that had been sweeping Rolex’s other model families.

Aside from receiving a new six-digit reference number (116622), subtle aesthetic changes were also present, as was an outstanding new dial option – the Cobalt Blue dial.

The case was now a “super case”, which retained the 40mm diameter but was styled differently. The bezel was now completely platinum, where previous versions were made of steel with a platinum insert. The Oyster bracelet had likewise been upgraded.

A platinum bezel / platinum dial option was still part of the collection and therefore received the same upgrades. Unfortunately, this iconic “albino” look would be completely discontinued in 2017.

The subsequent and most recent significant change to the Yacht-Master family took place in 2015, when Rolex first introduced the Everose Yacht-Master 40 ref. 116655.

Rolex Everose Yacht-Master on Oysterflex bracelet

The newest iteration of the YM possessed some new features. The case was made of Everose, and the bezel now boasted a black Cerachrom insert. Securing the watch to the wrist was another Rolex first – the Oysterflex rubber ‘bracelet’.

Before the 116655, no Rolex watch had ever sported a rubber band. The brand still refers to it as a bracelet given the metal elements within the band, but these are not obvious even with the watch in the hand.

This same style of Yacht-Master would receive the next update in 2019, when Rolex introduced the Yacht-Master 42 in white gold.

What’s Next?

With the recent changes that the Yacht-Master line has had, it is clear that Rolex intends to keep this model family alive and well for years to come. Consumers are likewise responding to each new release, offering plenty of feedback with their pocketbooks.

If you’d like to read up on any of Rolex’s other model families, make sure to check out some of our extensive watch guides below:

History Of The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
Overview Of The Most Luxurious Pilot’s Watch: The GMT-Master
How Did The Day-Date Become The President’s Watch?
Review Of Rolex’s Longest Running Watch Model
Rolex Watches That Could Become The Investment Of A Lifetime

"I have always been a fan of the Yacht-Master, but I had no idea that it didn't exist until the 1990s. Thanks for the information, and thanks for keeping it entertaining. Well done!"

Watch Content

A Rare Gem: The Rolex GMT-Master II 116758SA

Published by samuel colchamiro.

View all posts by Samuel Colchamiro

Rolex is known as a watch brand. With the company’s storied history of contributions to the world of waterproofing, automatic winding, date complications, and more, it’s easy to assume that’s Rolex’s sole focus and aptitude. And yet, watches like the GMT-Master II Reference 116758SA serve as a perfect reminder that Rolex is a jeweler as well. The factory’s gem-setting skill is nearly unparalleled in the industry. Let’s take a closer look at this incredible piece.

The history of the GMT-Master relates directly to its function. A GMT utilizes a 24-hour hand that allows the wearer to track a second time zone in addition to the local time. When paired with a bi-directional bezel, you can effectively track a third time zone in tandem with the 24 hour hand. Public demand for this type of “travel watch” coincided with the expansion of global travel and the advent of commercial airlines in the 1950s. In fact, the original GMT-Master was designed to outfit Pan Am pilots with a mens watch that could simultaneously track the time in both their place of origin and destination.

The fact that the watch is tied so closely to such an exciting period in aviation history and the general spirit of exploration and adventure that emerged during the 1950s has always given the GMT-Master II a bit of a romantic appeal for me and adds to the overall mystique of the GMT-Master.

This particular variant of the GMT, the reference 116758SA was never officially released on-catalog. Instead, this iteration was presented to the most exclusive of Rolex customers in an undisclosed– yet extremely limited— quantity. This piece exists in its own continuum of exceptional Rolex pieces that feature fine gemsetting.

Design Details

At its core, the 116758SA is simply a yellow gold GMT-Master II. A classic from Rolex, the fundamental design DNA is all there. That said, this piece has the added flair of a pavee dial, baguette studded bezel, and diamond-set center links. While it looks like a lot of ice (and it is), there’s certainly more behind the diamond setting decisions than initially meets the eye. For example, although the conventional bi-color bezel has been replaced with bi-color baguette setting. Intentionally, Rolex maintained the visual separation between AM and PM on the bezel, even with the added bling.

Similarly, on this example, the applique lume plots have a presence that jumps from the dial with a three-dimensional quality that is simply unique to gem set pieces. Between the depth of the diamond settings and the raised lume, this dial has much more in the way of topography than a conventional GMT and that helps this piece pop on the wrist.

Beyond these distinguishing details, much more about this watch is the same than is different. We otherwise have the same 40mm case with maxi lugs that bring the utilitarian look to this piece. I think it works well, although I would certainly prefer the Submariner’s updated slimmed down lug presence on a watch that is supposed to have a bit more elegance and swagger.

All around, this piece packs the spec of a solid Rolex sports piece, but packaged within a more playful, and blingy package.

Inner Workings

The Rolex 116758SA is powered by one of Rolex’s workhorse movements, the caliber 3186. Automatic-winding and packing 50 hours of power reserve, this movement was developed in house specifically to be a rock solid, serviceable, quality movement. Like most Rolex movements, the 3186 isn’t about aesthetic refinement or distinction. It’s about reliability, robustness, and ease of repairs. Watchmakers I’ve spoken to have mentioned a number of times the ease with which servicing of 3186 movements is handled. You can’t go wrong with this one.

Join 75,000+ Other Watch Enthusiasts

Get our new arrivals first.

Versus the Competition

Undoubtedly the first pieces I’d look at as alternatives to the 116758SA would be other iced out Rolexes. The Rainbow Daytona of course comes to mind as the most obvious choice, but my favorite would be a slightly more under the radar option, the Submariner in white gold with blue sapphires and diamond-set lugs. This is an imposing, beautiful watch, but the white gold tones down the bling just a little bit.

Next, I’d offer my next favorite Rolex with diamonds, the Day-Date meteorite in white gold with baguette markers . This piece has to be one of the most subtle watches to incorporate diamonds that I know of, and I think it works brilliantly. This piece is a complete winner in the category, and has gotten more and more popular over the last few years.

Finally, it should be noted that Rolex offers the 116759SARU, essentially a white gold variant of our 116758SA. Incorporating multi-color precious stones in a similar capacity to the yellow gold variant, in white gold, this piece takes on an entirely different personality. It looks a bit more clinical and slightly scaled back from the presence of the 116758. This fine distinction is a matter of preference, but you will likely gravitate strongly one way or another.

Personality

The type of collector looking for a watch of this kind is likely one of two personalities. First, and most likely, a lover of louder watches. A more flamboyant styling, the yellow gold and diamonds will attract a showier collector. Most collectors would likely not be comfortable wearing something quite this loud on their wrists. I have heard many describe discomfort even wearing a full gold Rolex. The pairing of this base with the added punch of precious stones might be too much. The collector that likes this knows who they are.

With all that said, there is also a smaller group of collectors that gravitates toward this piece for an entirely different reason— appreciation for the craft of fine gem setting. I have spoken to a number of collectors that love diamonds, but comment on how smooth Rolex’s setting process is. So much so that you can quite simply identify a factory vs aftermarket diamonds setting. There’s a certain precision and mastery of the craft of fine gem setting that Rolex possesses that cannot be understated. While this may be a niche subset of the Rolex clientele, at the same time, this is not a mass-market watch. It is designed for the select few, and for this, the 116758 will more than satisfy.

Final Thoughts

Rolex typically lives in the 20ish thousand dollar range. Their watches are solid, reliable, utilitarian, and built to withstand the grueling demands of the everyday— but to do so in style. The 116758 stands slightly outside of this framework. It’s one of Rolex’s few rare decorated pieces, not a part of the general production line, and showcasing Rolex’s mastery of fine gem setting. This watch lives on the art side of Rolex’s catalog, and it truly thrives there.

See More of the Rolex GMT-Master II 116758SA

Visit europeanwatch.com

ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX

24 November 2019, 10:16 AM

Jabbo84

24 November 2019, 01:10 PM

BentleyReese

24 November 2019, 01:26 PM

inadeje

24 November 2019, 01:35 PM

viper

24 November 2019, 01:36 PM

Bybybmw

24 November 2019, 02:24 PM

Krash

24 November 2019, 03:14 PM

robrtx

24 November 2019, 03:24 PM

Spanky4888

24 November 2019, 03:48 PM

JWD531

24 November 2019, 03:49 PM

reddog4063

24 November 2019, 04:04 PM

ilovethiscity

24 November 2019, 04:31 PM

PNBLWZD

24 November 2019, 05:16 PM

GB-man

24 November 2019, 05:21 PM

abelxo

24 November 2019, 05:31 PM

mml4

24 November 2019, 05:34 PM

Brew

24 November 2019, 05:42 PM

Old Expat Beast

24 November 2019, 06:29 PM

SS Oyster

24 November 2019, 06:30 PM

glamorama

24 November 2019, 06:58 PM

SkyJuice

24 November 2019, 07:09 PM

Toproll85

24 November 2019, 08:30 PM

gunhose

24 November 2019, 09:32 PM

24 November 2019, 09:47 PM

HogwldFLTR

24 November 2019, 10:54 PM

mailman

24 November 2019, 11:11 PM

zian

24 November 2019, 11:59 PM

SteelSubmarinerGuy

25 November 2019, 12:57 AM

sombra

25 November 2019, 01:16 AM

Stew7

25 November 2019, 02:05 AM

tbk

Thread Tools

Posting Rules

post new threads post replies post attachments edit your posts is are code is

- - -

IMAGES

Rolex Yacht-Master II second hand prices
The Rolex Yacht-Master II: How does it work, and why is it so complicated?
How to Set and Use the Rolex Yacht-Master II
Rolex Yacht-Master II: Hands-On Expert Review
Discover the Rolex Yacht-Master II Ref. 116681
Rolex Yacht-Master II for $29,640 for sale from a Seller on Chrono24

VIDEO

ROLEX Yacht Master II Luxurious 18ct Gold watch
Should I invest in a Rolex Yacht-Master? by colognewatch.de
Rolex Yacht Master 2
Replica Rolex Yacht-master 2 4K upload
Cosa penso del Rolex
ROLEX YACHT-MASTER 2

COMMENTS

Why is the Yachtmaster II not more popular?
1. It's 2 mm bigger than the Sub, which everybody has. Yes, it is big, but it's not like wearing a clock on your wrist. 2. It is expensive for a one-and-done Rolex owner or the casual watch owner not to be found on a forum like TRF. But reasonable compared to many of the watches/collections I see on TRF regularly. 3.
Rolex Discontinues The Yacht-Master II
Rolex FINALLY did it!!! They got rid of the Yacht-Master II—at Watches and Wonders 2024—which historically was my least favorite modern Rolex. Although there were some cool characteristics, like being the only other Rolex Chronograph beside the Daytona, I could just never get into the Yacht-Master II. I would go so far as to say the Rolex ...
Yacht Master II Discontinued
Location: Cairo. Posts: 307. Yacht Master II Discontinued. The yacht master II is gone. It's not on the website anymore only 37,40 &42mm models. Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk. 9 April 2024, 07:36 PM.
The Rolex Yacht-Master II: How does it work, and why is it so
In 2010, Rolex released one of the most controversial models in the brand's recent history: the Yacht-Master II.The original Yacht-Master from the 1990s is effectively a more luxurious version of the popular Submariner with a slightly toned-down tool watch feel. The Yacht-Master II, however, strikes an entirely different chord.
Hands-On Rolex Yacht-Master II Review
In fact, my Omega Planet Ocean is only 42mm x 15.7mm, and feels much bulkier and heavier than the Yacht-Master II. The case is alternating with polished and satin-finished and features a nautical blue ceramic bezel. The pushers are, as is Rolex's MO, a perfect length. Even though I'm left handed, and therefore wear my watch on my right ...
Yacht master 2
Yacht master 2 Rolex General Discussion : ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX ... Same reason, just not nearly as popular. Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge using Tapatalk 25 January 2019, 10:39 PM #14: watchwatcher "TRF" Member . Join Date: Jan 2009. Real Name: Larry. Location: Kentucky ...
Complication By Name: The Rolex Yachtmaster 2
New for the 2017 Version of the Yacht-Master II 116680. Perhaps the only subtle thing about the Rolex Yachtmaster 2 is the facelift it enjoyed on its 10 th anniversary this year. All the delicate upgrades were confined to the dial, with the inner workings being left well alone. The 12 and 6 markers were changed from the squares shared by the ...
Rolex Yacht-Master Ultimate Buying Guide
While the original Rolex Yacht-Master is an ultra-luxurious take on Rolex's already popular sports watches, the Rolex Yacht-Master II was purpose-built to time out regattas in competitive sailing. Essentially, the Yacht-Master is the kind of watch you wear while lounging on a boat and a Yacht Master II is what you wear if you're racing one ...
Rolex Yacht-Master II Ultimate Buying Guide
The Rolex Yacht-Master II Stainless Steel and Everose Gold 116681, introduced in 2011, is a striking addition to the Yacht-Master II collection. It features a unique blend of robust 904L stainless steel and luxurious 18k Everose gold, embodying both resilience and elegance. Rolex Yachtmaster II Steel Rose Gold Mercedes Hands Mens Watch 116681.
Hands-On The Rolex Yachtmaster II Regatta Timer, Ref. 116680
The Rolex Yacht-Master II 116680 as shown, $18,750, 44 mm diameter case in 904L stainless steel. Bidirectional rotatable "Command Bezel" with blue Cerachrom insert; water resistance 100 meters/10 bar. Movement, Rolex 4161 self-winding programmable flyback regatta timer with mechanical memory and "on-the-fly" synchronization; Parachrom blue ...
Rolex Yacht-Master II Ultimate Buying Guide
Rolex Yacht-Master II Functions. Looks aside, the big talking point around the Rolex Yacht Master II lies in what it can do. There is a strong argument against calling the watch a genuine chronograph as it doesn't so much keep track of elapsed time in the traditional sense, as it does count backwards from a specific starting point, up to a maximum of 10-minutes.
Why isn't the Yachtmaster I more popular?
Lots of Rolex models are not popular with the watch enthusiast community: the Day-Date, the DateJust, the Sky-Dweller (other than blue/stainless), precious metal models other than those with cutesy nicknames like the Platona or Smurf, the Yacht-Master II, and yes, the Yacht-Master. Including an indifference towards ladies models, the enthusiast ...
[Rolex] How The Yacht-Master II Works And Why It's So Complicated
But their watches aren't gonna have tourbillons or perpetual calendars or minute repeaters and so on. The only two complicated watches Rolex makes are the Yacht Master II (with this regatta timer) and the Sky Dweller (with its annual calendar + GMT). It is the word"yacht-master II"in bold that brothers me most.
Rolex Yacht-Master VS Yacht-Master II. Which is Best?
A unique feature of the Yachtmaster II is the regatta chronograph and features the world's first mechanical programmable countdown with a memory. You can accurately sync the watch with the starting sequence of a yacht race. Unlike most bezels which don't operate as a component of the movement, the easy-to-use and bi-directional Ring Command ...
A buying guide to most popular Rolex Yacht-Master Models
The Rolesium Yacht-Master 40 offers the choice between a rhodium gray or a blue dial while the Rolesium Yacht-Master 37 only comes with a rhodium gray dial. Prices (current collection): Rolesium Yacht-Master 37 ref. 268622: $11,250. Rolesium Yacht-Master 40 ref. 126622: $12,000.
Why is Yacht Master II so underrated?
It's a radical departure from more established Rolex designs and quite a polarising watch. It has a complication that is unlikely to be used by most of its owners (and therefore seen as unnecessary by most). It's very specialised as a result, Personally, I don't find it particularly pleasing on the eye or easy to read.
Why is there no love for the Rolex Yacht Master? : r/rolex
ADMIN MOD. Why is there no love for the Rolex Yacht Master? I tried on a yacht master at Caesars palace in Las Vegas several years ago. I didn't pull the trigger because it was simply out of my budget, but I thought it was just a stunningly beautiful watch. I'm pretty new to the luxury watch community, so I'm not sure why I never see ...
Why Isn'T the Yacht-master More Popular?
The Rolex Yacht-Master: A timeless, customisable design. Rolex is renowned for its timeless designs that seamlessly blend sophistication with functionality. This is where the Yacht-Master's aesthetics come out to shine, its elegance and sporty case give it a distinct unique look. Whilst not as loved as the Submariners, many people have one so ...
Rolex Yacht-Master Overview & History: The Captain's Watch
The first Yacht-Master watch was launched in 1992 under reference number 16628. It featured a yellow gold case, a bidirectional graduated bezel, and a matching full-gold Oyster bracelet. Its dial was white with black hour indices, while at center were gold Mercedes hands, and beating inside was the 3135 movement.
Why is the Yacht-master so unpopular?
It's another reason the explorer II is cool because it's not typical. Keep the YM40 a secret. -maintains the sub look but with case shape more reminiscent of 5 digit models vs blocky 11xxx models. I owned the 114060 and 5 digit GMT and its much more like the GMT (but not quite), which is a great thing IMO.
A Rare Gem: The Rolex GMT-Master II 116758SA
And yet, watches like the GMT-Master II Reference 116758SA serve as a perfect reminder that Rolex is a jeweler as well. The factory's gem-setting skill is nearly unparalleled in the industry. Let's take a closer look at this incredible piece. Rolex GMT-Master II 116758SA History. The history of the GMT-Master relates directly to its function.
Why is the Yacht Master not as popular as the other sports models
It truly baffles me why the current yacht master is not as popular some other models in the Rolex range. I personally think it's a beautiful watch, specifically the version with the slate grey dial. ... Why is the Yacht Master not as popular as the other sports models? Not popular in the SubTona forums yes. Like every other Rolex that isn't ...
Why is the Yacht Master not as popular as the other ...
Page 2- Why is the Yacht Master not as popular as the other sports models? Rolex General Discussion

Thursday, April 25, 2024

INSIDE ROLEX

Recent Stories by Capt. Danny Crivello

Rolex Yacht-Master II Ultimate Buying Guide

A Brief History of the Rolex Yacht-Master II

Key Features of the Rolex Yacht-Master II

The Oyster Case at 44mm

Ring Command System

Cerachrom Insert Bezel (for steel, Rolesor, and yellow gold models)

Platinum Bezel in sandblasted finish (for white gold model)

Chromalight Display

Perpetual Caliber 4160 / 4161

<> Models of the Rolex Yacht-Master II

Rolex Yacht-Master II Stainless Steel Blue Bezel 116680

Rolex Yacht-Master II Stainless Steel and Everose Gold 116681

Rolex Yacht-Master II Yellow Gold 116688

Rolex Yacht-Master II White Gold Platinum Bezel 116689

<> Final Thoughts

Hands-On The Rolex Yachtmaster II Regatta Timer, Ref. 116680

Introducing The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master, In 18k Everose Gold On The New "Oysterflex" Bracelet

Watching Movies Tom Selleck's Tiny Timex And Two-Tone Rolex In 'Three Men And A Baby'

Seven Of Our Favorite Watches To Engrave

Sunday Rewind Take A Deep Dive With The Rolex Sea-Dweller 126600

Last Week’s Top Stories

Rolex Yacht-Master II Ultimate Buying Guide

Rolex Yacht-Master II

Yacht-Master II Key Features:

Rolex Yacht-Master II History

How Much Is A Rolex Yacht-Master II?

Rolex Yacht-Master II Design

Rolex Yacht-Master II Functions

Rolex Yacht-Master II Movement

Rolex Yacht-Master II Bracelet

About Paul Altieri

Bob's Watches Blog Updates

Recommended Articles

13 Best Summer Watches

Rectangular Rolex Watches: Everything You Need To Know

Is the Rolex Milgauss a Good Investment?

Tudor Pelagos

Rolex Sky-Dweller

Speedmaster

Why isn't the Yachtmaster I more popular?

Attachments

Top Contributors this Month

Rolex Yacht-Master VS Yacht-Master II.

Rolex Yacht-Master VS Yacht-Master II

Rolex Yachtmaster II

Rolex Yacht-Master VS Yacht-Master II - Side By Side Comparison

View All Rolex Collections & Series

A buying guide to most popular Rolex Yacht-Master Models

Guide To Popular Rolex Yacht-Master Models

Where it all began:

Here is a flamboyant version of it of the Everose gold Yacht-Master 40:

Rolesium Rolex Yacht-Master Models

Rolesor Rolex Yacht-Master Models

Find out more:

We're here to help

WHY ISN'T THE YACHT-MASTER MORE POPULAR?

Products featured in the article

Rubber Strap for ROLEX® Yacht-Master (5 Digits) For Deployant Buckle

Rubber Strap for ROLEX® Yacht-Master (6 Digits)

Rubber Strap for ROLEX® Yacht-Master (6 Digits) For Deployant Buckle

The Rolex Yacht-Master: A timeless, customisable design

The Watch Of The Open Seas: History Of The Rolex Yacht-Master

History Of The Rolex Yacht-Master

The Submariner/Yacht-Master Theory

The Maxi Dial Yacht-Master

The Yacht-Master II

The Oysterflex Yacht-Master

The Release Of The Yacht-Master

Mid-Size & Ladies’ Yacht-Master

The Platinum (Rolesium) Yacht-Master

The Two-Tone (Rolesor) Yacht-Master

The Six-Digit Yacht-Master

What’s Next?

Watch Content

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

A Rare Gem: The Rolex GMT-Master II 116758SA

Design Details