yachtmaster 2 two tone rose gold

Rolex Yacht-Master II Steel & Rose Gold Luxury Men's Watch 116681-0002

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Rolex Yachtmaster II Two Tone Rose Gold and Stainless Steel 44mm White Stick Dial Watch Reference#: 116681

• Out of Stock

Product Description

• Reference #: 116681
• Case:  18K Rose Gold & Stainless Steel
• Case Size: 44mm
• Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet w/  Oysterlock Safety Clasp with Folding Clasp and Easylink 5mm Quick Extension Link
• Dial: White Dial w/ Dot Hour Markers
• Lume: Luminous Hands & Hour Markers
• Bezel:  Rotating Ring Command Bezel w/ Blue Ceramic Insert that Interacts with Movement
• Date Window: None
• Movement: Automatic Winding Movement; Rolex Calibre  4161
• Power Reserve: 72 Hours
• Water Resistant: Yes 100 Meters/330 Feet
• Crystal: Scratch Resistant Sapphire Crystal  
• Condition: Pre-Owned; Excellent Condition!
• Rolex Box & PAPERS Included!
• Internal SKU #: 590-12897

All Pre-Owned watches are guaranteed to be 100% genuine. Your watch will come with a 2-year limited warranty, original box, and appraisal.

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*All jewelry and watch orders require signature upon delivery.

**We currently ship to the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Average shipping times:  Please note that our processing times still apply. 

UPS Ground: 3-6 business days (excluding weekends and holidays)

UPS Expedited- available upon request to select addresses- fees will apply

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*The purchaser is responsible for covering any expenses related to a package returned to us as a result of multiple unsuccessful delivery attempts.

**International orders may be required to pay duty or VAT. These are the responsibility of the purchaser and will be collected by the carrier before your package can be delivered. Happy Jewelers is not responsible for returned packages due to unpaid duty or VAT.

Once your piece is complete, we will email you with tracking information.

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RETURN AND EXCHANGE POLICY

View our full Return and Exchange Policy: here

ENGAGEMENT RINGS

We do not offer any full refunds on engagement rings.

Any natural engagement ring returned within 30 days of purchase is subject to a  50% restocking fee . After 30 days, returned natural engagement rings will be subject to fair market value.

A Happy Jewelers  lab diamond  may be returned,  within 30 days of purchase minus   a 50% restocking fee for store credit only to be used towards a fine jewelry purchase . No returns on lab diamonds after 30 days.

Engagement rings may be upgraded by purchasing a new diamond that is a minimum of double the original purchase price.

FINE JEWELRY (NON-CUSTOM)

We are happy to offer a full refund or store credit for a return or exchange on non-custom jewelry pieces within  10 days of receiving your jewelry .

Jewelry must be returned in the same condition and working order, including packaging, as originally received.

All returns, after 10 days and up to 90 days, are subject to a  50% restocking fee and store credit only towards a fine jewelry purchase.  

We do not allow exchanges on any altered or engraved items.

All purchases on markdown items, including Sale of the Day, Pink Tag Sale, and  Pre-owned Designer Jewelry  are  final sale and not eligible  for return/exchange or refund.

All watch sales are final .

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Rolex Yacht Master II Two Tone Rose Gold and Stainless Steel 44mm Ref. 116681

Layaway options:

• Free Expedited Shipping
• Free Gift Packaging
• Authenticity Guarantee

NYC Luxury accepts multiple forms of payment. We accept all major credit cards and crypto with BitPay. We offer several long term payments options with Layaway and financing with Affirm. We know how valuable your time is, we accept Apple Pay as well!

Layaway: We offer layaway payments with Partial.ly. To check out with Partial.ly you can either click on the learn more button on the product page. *Insert screenshot here* Or you can click “add to cart” then click on your cart. Once on the cart page, you will see a button to check out with Partial.ly. *Insert Screenshot* You will be redirected to their website where you will create an account. Partial.ly will show you available payment plans with 90 day terms. You can pay as often as you like in whatever amounts you choose. You are subject to interest fees if it is not paid out within 90 days.

Financing: We offer financing with Affirm. With affirm, you have two check out options. You can either proceed to check out on the website and when you get to payment options, select “Checkout With Affirm”. If you're already an Affirm user, you can get a virtual card and enter the card details manually at check out as if you were using a normal credit card.  Affirm will create its own payment plan and interest rate for you.  This is based on your creditworthiness and credit score 

BitPay: Are you a Crypto Whale? NYC Luxury accepts crypto as a form of payment. Add your item to the cart and once you get to the payment page in check out, select check out with Bitpay. You will be redirected to Bitpay. Here you will have to create an account if you're a new user or log in with your existing account. Follow the next steps from BitPay.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us on our live chat or call (833) 434-1993

Two tone watches are incredibly popular especially when made of 18K pink gold and stainless steel. If you desire a luxury watch with a dressy appeal, this two tone Rolex Yacht Master II is perfect for you. This pre-owned Rolex has a white dial with a rose gold sub dial. A luxury watch with many features, this men's Rolex is complete with a two tone Oyster Lock safety clasp and 5MM comfort extension link. The 18K pink gold 90 degree rotatable Command bezel with blue Cerachrom insert makes this men's watch stand out from the rest. Whether you are just starting your luxury watch collection or adding to it, this two tone watch is an absolute must have. This Rolex Yacht Master II also has an 18K pink gold crown and push pieces. Also, it is water resistant up to 100m, what's not to love? Your new Rolex Yacht Master II will take your status to the next level. Does not come with Rolex box and papers.

For in stock items and ordered before 4PM Monday- Friday your order will be processed within 1 business day and have 2-day standard shipping. Every order is insured and will require a signature at delivery.

All watch sales are final sale.

No Returns Policy for Luxury Watches

Thank you for choosing to purchase a luxury watch from our store. We take pride in offering high-quality timepieces that are crafted with precision and attention to detail. As a luxury watch retailer, we strive to maintain the highest standards in the industry, and in order to ensure that we can continue to provide the best possible service and products to our valued customers, we have implemented a strict "No Returns" policy for all luxury watches purchased from our store. Please review the following terms and conditions:

• All sales of luxury watches are final. Once a luxury watch is sold, it cannot be returned for a refund, exchange, or store credit, except as required by law.
• The customer acknowledges that luxury watches are delicate and sensitive timepieces that require careful handling and proper maintenance. Any damage caused by misuse, mishandling, or neglect, including but not limited to scratches, dents, water damage, or alterations, will void the warranty and is not eligible for a return or refund.
• All luxury watches sold by our store are either pre-owned or never-worn. All watches are authentic. Third party authentication or appraisal is available upon request.
• Due to the high value and exclusive nature of luxury watches, returns are not accepted for reasons such as change of mind, buyer's remorse, or dissatisfaction with the appearance, function, or features of the luxury watch.
• In the event that a luxury watch is received by the customer in a defective or damaged condition, the customer must notify our store within 48 hours of receipt, and provide photographic evidence of the defect or damage. Our store will review the claim on a case-by-case basis, and may, at its sole discretion, arrange for a repair or replacement of the luxury watch, subject to the manufacturer's warranty and repair policies.
• Our store reserves the right to refuse any returns or refunds that do not comply with our "No Returns" policy, or that are determined to be fraudulent, abusive, or in violation of our terms and conditions.

By making a purchase of a luxury watch from our store, the customer acknowledges and accepts our "No Returns" policy as stated above. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation, and we are committed to providing you with exceptional customer service and a positive shopping experience. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our customer service team. Email [email protected] with any questions with the the word RETURNS as well as the order number in the subject line.

NYC Luxury's watches hand are selected by our in house watchspecialists, and only purchased from the industries most trustedsources.

Rolex Date-Just 2 Two-Tone Rose Gold

Gervonta Davis

Rolex Day-Date II 41mm Rose Gold Baguette

Rolex Yacht-Master II Two-Tone 18K Rose Gold- 43MM

Pairs well with.

Key Features:

• Impeccable Condition: Presented flawlessly, ensuring pristine appearance and performance.
• Rolex Yacht Master II: Experience the epitome of luxury with this masterfully designed timepiece in two-tone Rose Gold.
• Luxurious 43mm Case: Exudes sophistication and elegance, showcasing Rolex's unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship.
• Stylish Ceramic Bezel: Features a durable and modern ceramic bezel, adding a contemporary touch to its classic rose gold aesthetics.
• Comes in an Elegant Rolex Presentation Box: Ideal for safekeeping or presenting as a luxurious gift.

All of our watches are 100% original movement and come with 1 year mechanical warranty from Rocco's Jewelry. We only use natural diamonds on all of our watches.

To qualify for financing, you'll need an active checking account with a three-month income history. Additionally, you'll be asked to provide a government-issued photo ID and a Social Security Number (SSN). These requirements ensure a smooth approval process, giving you the opportunity to enhance your style and personal expression. Once approved for Financing, you'll receive up to $4,000 of shopping power to spend on your next purchase at Rocco's Jewelry. This extra financial flexibility empowers you to upgrade your selected jewelry piece, adding more sparkle or choosing a more exquisite design that truly speaks to your taste and preferences.

Our Layaway Program allows you to reserve an item and pay for it over a set period of time. This is a great option if you want to purchase a piece of jewelry but need more time to pay for it. You'll receive the item once payments have been completed.

At Rocco's Jewelry, we proudly offer international shipping, ensuring our customers worldwide can enjoy our exquisite pieces. Each order is packaged with care, fully insured, and requires a signature upon delivery, guaranteeing your purchase arrives safely and directly to you. We are dedicated to providing a seamless and secure shopping experience, from order placement to your door.

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Rolex Yacht-Master II

• Yacht-Master II
• Yacht-Master
• Rolex 116688
• Rolex 116689
• $7,000 to $10,000
• $10,000 to $15,000
• $15,000 to $20,000
• Stainless Steel
• Yellow Gold
• 2010 to Present

• $ 19,995 Buy
• Get Quote Sell

• $ 27,495 Buy

• $ 28,495 Buy

Cash wire prices shown. Prices may be higher if other payment methods are selected.*

About The Rolex Yacht-Master II

The Rolex Yacht-Master II was released in 2007 and has since become a pillar of the Big Crown’s maritime-inspired collection of timepieces. The Yacht-Master II was developed for yacht racing and includes a programmable countdown mechanism that can be adjusted from 1 to 10 minutes. The Yacht-Master II's regatta chronograph is also another noteworthy feature, allowing seafarers to time their maneuvers with the utmost accuracy.

Why Choose Us

Bob's Watches is a trusted and dependable seller of luxury certified pre-owned Rolex watches. With over 20 years of combined expertise, we have earned a stellar reputation for our knowledge, customer service, and devotion to authenticity. Each watch is subjected to a rigorous authentication and servicing process, and Bob's Watches includes a 1-year warranty on every watch sold, giving customers peace of mind and confidence in their investment.

Looking to Sell Your Rolex?

Unlock the value of your treasured timepiece by selling your Rolex with Bob's Watches. Our expert team handles each watch with utmost care and professionalism. With our seamless and trusted process, we ensure your experience is top-notch. Parting with your luxury watch becomes as effortless and rewarding as the moments it has tracked for you. Get started today by visiting our Sell Rolex watch page.

Testimonials

Nathaniel g..

"I had wanted a Yacht-Master for as long as I could remember, but could never justify the high price of buying new. Once I realized that buying pre-owned might be a smarter option, I searched around the internet, but only Bob's Watches made me feel comfortable with making such a large purchase online. I understood their business model, and past customers' reviews were very positive. The prices were competitive as well, and rivaled those of less-trustworthy dealers. Once I made my choice, there was a slight hiccup in the process to wire funds, but when I called in, the problem was quickly resolved.

I received my watch a few days later, and it looked stunning. When the site says "mint condition," it means it! Bob's was also able to tell me when the watch was last serviced, which (in combination with the one-year warranty) gives me peace-of-mind. As I look to expand my collection of watches, I'm sure I'll be a repeat customer of Bob's Watches."

Review originally published on Trustpilot

"I have been shopping for the Rolex Yachtmaster for the better part of a year. I visited multiple jewelers & brokers in my area. Either they were of poor condition or over priced. Then I found Bobs Watches. The staff was expeditious and courteous. They sent me new photos of the watch upon request with no hesitation. The service, price, and condition of the watch was without compare. I am now a lifelong customer of Bobs Watches, I cannot imagine buying from any other source."

Review originally published on Google

Expert Opinion

"The Rolex Yacht-Master II is a true masterpiece of engineering and design . The programmable countdown function is amazingly useful for avid sailors and sailing enthusiasts, and the regatta chronograph is both precise and dependable. The watch exudes a sense of opulence and prestige, and it's easy to understand why it's one of the most coveted pre-owned Rolex watches on the market today."

- Paul Altieri, Founder & CEO of Bob’s Watches

Price Trends

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is a prized collector’s item, and its value has steadily grown over the years due to demand and inventory. The watch's complex design, trailblazing technology, and premium materials add to its price and make it a sensible investment. While prices differ depending on influences such as model, condition, and availability, the Yacht-Master II is overall considered a luxury item with an appropriate price tag to reflect its status.

Used Rolex Yacht-Master II Prices

disc. = discontinued

Popular Rolex Yacht-Master II Watch Comparisons

Rolex yacht-master ii 116680 vs 116681.

The Rolex Yacht-Master II 116680 and 116681 are both remarkable timepieces in their own right, highly regarded for their distinctive features and design. The primary difference between the two Rolex watches is their metal finish; the 116680 has a stainless steel finish, while the 116681 features a combination of steel and Everose gold, called Everose Rolesor. Ultimately, choosing between the two Yacht-Master IIs comes down to personal preference and style.

Rolex Yacht-Master II 116688 vs 116689

The Rolex Yacht-Master II 116688 and 116689 are two outstanding precious metal luxury watches coveted by collectors and Rolex devotees alike. The major difference between the two models is their metal finish, with the 116688 being crafted completely from 18k yellow gold, while the 116689 pairs white gold with a platinum bezel. Both Yacht-Master IIs are equipped with advanced watchmaking technologies like a programmable countdown timer and a regatta chronograph function, making them perfect for boating and other maritime activities. Ultimately, the choice between either model comes down to personal preference, cost, and style.

Popular Nicknames

The Rolex Yacht-Master II has earned a few well-known nicknames since coming to market among Rolex enthusiasts and avid luxury watch collectors. Some of the most popular monikers are the "Regatta Timer" or simply "Regatta" because of its programmable countdown timer function, which was developed for nautical competitions. It is also often called the "Big Yacht" due to its robust size and polarizing design. Finally, some collectors refer to it simply as the “Yacht 2.”

Rolex Yacht Master II Reference Models

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is a cult favorite with a versatile selection of reference models to accommodate different preferences and styles. The most sought-after reference models are the 116680 and 116681, which sport stainless steel and steel and Everose gold metal finishes, respectively. The 116688 and 116689 are made completely from precious metals and are ideal for those in the market for a more extravagant wristwatch.

Learn more about the collection by visiting our Rolex Yacht-Master II buying guide .

Key Features

Rolex yacht-master ii dials.

Rolex prefers to only produce the purpose-driven Yacht-Master II with a simple and clean white dial. Additionally, all Yacht-Master II dials have legible hour markers and hands, making the watch an ideal tool for all maritime activities.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Movements

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is powered by a highly complex mechanical movement famous for its unparalleled precision and dependability. The watch currently features Rolex's in-house caliber 4161, which is an automatic mechanical movement with an extraordinary power reserve of 72 hours. Additionally, the movement boasts a programmable countdown timer and a regatta chronograph function, making it a favorite among regatta and sailing enthusiasts.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Sizes

The Yacht-Master II is one of the largest models in the Rolex portfolio, at 44mm in diameter. While quite large by Rolex’s standards, the 44mm case is necessary to house the complex movement and sophisticated Ring Command bezel. Collectors who prefer a watch with a more robust size and weight will appreciate the distinctive Yacht Master II in 44mm.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Materials

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is crafted with superior materials that are both durable and timeless. The collection is sold in a handful of material options, including stainless steel, gold, and a combination of steel and precious metals like Everose Rolesor or white gold and platinum. Additionally, the watch has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a highly resilient Cerachrom bezel made from ceramic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the yacht-master 2 hold its value.

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is infamous for holding its value long term. Due to its outstanding craftsmanship, groundbreaking features, and refined design, it is a popular watch among avid Rolex collectors and aficionados. As a result, the Yacht-Master II usually to hold its value well and might even appreciate over time, making it a solid investment for those in the market for a high-end timepiece.

Is the Rolex Yacht-Master 2 being discontinued?

There are currently no signs that the Rolex Yacht-Master II will be discontinued any time soon. Rolex is known for fostering the continuity of its staple collections, and the Yacht-Master II has been a massively successful model since its release in the mid-2000s. In fact, Rolex continues to make changes to the Yacht-Master II collection, which suggests that it is still an important part of the brand's portfolio.

Why is Rolex Yacht-Master so expensive?

The Rolex Yacht-Master is an expensive watch because of its extraordinary quality, innovative design, and use of high-end materials. Rolex is known for its rigorous quality control and tireless pursuit of perfection and precise craftsmanship, which produces a watch that is enduring, accurate, and reliable. Additionally, the Yacht-Master offers the wearer a range of groundbreaking features and functionalities, including a programmable countdown timer and regatta chronograph function, which also contributes to its premium and demand among collectors and enthusiasts.

Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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