yacht master vs explorer 2

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Explorer II Polar (16570) VS Yacht Master Platinum (16622)

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I have an Explorer II Polar, I don't have a Yacht Master, IMO the Explorer II is way more bang for the buck. GMT hand, same water resistance, and almost $4K less expensive.  

What if price wasn’t an object ? I feel like sometimes the explorer II is thought of as a stepping stone to a sub or a Daytona, but rarely to a yachtmaster, which kind of leaves the yacht master in an awkward place.  

I personally am not a fan of the yacht master, I own a sub, and love dive watches, but the Yacht master bezel is a little too blingy, and again (in my opinion) the watch has an almost feminine look to it. I think the yacht master is just a little too “dressed up” for a daily wear watch. I really like the 40mm Explorer, both for the GMT complication, as well as the overall design. For my money the explorer II is a hands down winner in this comparison. I also prefer the polar explorer lol to the black dial version.  

I think the Yacht-Master is the more unique watch with the platinum dial and bezel. However the Explorer II has more history and an added complication with the GMT hand. I bought a 16570 because I wanted the GMT and a more tool watch appearance (SS bezel, non polished center links). I don’t think you can go wrong with either choice and OP if money is not a concern I wouldn’t hesitate to purchase a 16570 to add to your collection. As everyone likes to say buy what you like and enjoy it.  

It does seem like the explorer II is the popular choice over the yacht master. I guess the yacht master isn’t quite as versatile as a explorer II and may only appeal to a certain crowd  

Acey said: It does seem like the explorer II is the popular choice over the yacht master. I guess the yacht master isn't quite as versatile as a explorer II and may only appeal to a certain crowd Click to expand...

Brand new yes there is a pretty big price discrepancy but on the 2nd hand market that price gap narrows quite a bit . The yacht master is still more expensive but I haven’t yet seen anyone wanting to trade up to a yacht master , though I have seen a fair amount wanting to trade up to a sub . Considering the yacht master was thought of as the luxurious sub, it’s interesting that it hasn’t had much appeal even to the fanciest crowds  

Acey said: Brand new yes there is a pretty big price discrepancy but on the 2nd hand market that price gap narrows quite a bit . The yacht master is still more expensive but I haven't yet seen anyone wanting to trade up to a yacht master , though I have seen a fair amount wanting to trade up to a sub . Considering the yacht master was thought of as the luxurious sub, it's interesting that it hasn't had much appeal even to the fanciest crowds Click to expand...

Acey said: <snip> ...there's something special about owning something that you so rarely see being worn out in the wild. Between these two white face dials which would you choose and why? :: I own the yacht master 16622 but the Explorer II Polor was what I was eyeing from the beginning and I can't help but think of what could have been. So what do you guys think? Which is better? Click to expand...

Dogbert_is_fat said: Personally, I would take the Yacht Master anytime. My view is that the YM is a luxurious watch with a tinge of sportiness. The Explorer II is a sports watch, period. You can have that YM on your wrist and it will be at home in the marina or you can be out and about on the waters, sailing. The classy or some say "blingy" look of the YM will also do well in a smart casual, office environment setting without looking over done. Click to expand...

I love both of those watches. I would take either over a sub and I know im in the minority. I had a YM lined up last year. Had a deal set to go but I tried it on in the daylight and it was too sparkly for me. I dont want to consider which watch to wear when I go out so any of my watches are fine wherever I go. I felt the YM would attract unwanted attention in "more lively" areas so I passed on it. I felt it was a watch that was dependent on what you are wearing ie shorts and a t-shirt would make it look even more glitzy and incongruous so it needed to be worn with smarter clothing which im not a great fan of as im a scruff bag. I was gutted to be honest as I think its a beautiful watch in all versions but I just know it wouldnt get the wrist time it deserved. Thats where the Explorer is such a cool watch. It can go anwhere, looks smart with a shirt and wont attract the wrong sort of attention from people that can only spot 2 types of Rolex.  

It boils down to whether you prefer the rotating bezel or the GMT complication. Or perhaps whether you prefer the EXP II's glossy white dial. The EXP II would be killer if it had a rotating bezel.  

Polar 16570 without a doubt. PS: Did you read my review about the 5-digits? Maybe you'll find some useful tips here. Cheers. https://luxurywatches635.wordpress.com/2019/08/02/which-5-digit-rolex-to-get/  

I think Rolex designed and marketed both watches just right: Explorer II is just a tough looking watch for exploration. As for the Sub, it's a classic looking diver and plays its part extremely well. The YM? A perfect watch, with stunning colors, while you sip champagne on the a boat, luxury watch for luxury activities.  

Duplicate  

clearly having trouble.  

Got it today 🙂  

Attachments

Acey said: Got it today &#55357;&#56898; Click to expand...

I’m struck by how simple the dial is. I can’t think of another watch I’ve owned that is so uncomplicated, and the white dial compounds this. So gorgeous  

Saw your Exp II on the sales forum as a catch & release...what didn't you like about it?  

OP is banned now.  

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Hands On Review: Rolex Explorer II (Released In 2021 / Ref: 226570)

I have been badgering my AD for months for the new Rolex Explorer II. About every three weeks I call him to ask him where it is, and of course no dice. So, finally I broke down and bought one second hand. I won’t disclose the price, but yes “I paid over retail.” However, I may have found that a good deal considering the current Rolex situation.

First, I have the two previous generations of Explorer II so I am very familiar with this iteration of Rolex. I own the 16570 and the 216570. The two watches are incredibly different, I won’t go into detail about those versions but I will go into detail about the difference between the 226570 and the 216570, and let me tell you…they are quite different watches. Believe it or not, there are at least  15 technical differences (despite the fact that they look almost identical)

Comparing the Rolex Explorer II (216570) and the Explorer II (226570)

First we will discuss the major differences of each watch and then I will let you know which one I think is better. I am going to sound like a hater at times, but frankly there are some design choices I really question with each version. Let’s start with the hands. 

The hands of the new version (just released in 2021), specifically the polar/white dials aren’t good. They are new to this generation and are PVD coated in a matte black. They look very low quality and the matte finish mixed with the lume looks frankly poor. The indices were also done this way and also share the same issues. The dial is done in a white lacquer and looks amazing, however mixing these two contrasting finishes is a clear design mistake in my opinion. Frankly, it is quite surprising how much this one difference gets under my skin. On the previous version the hands were a gloss finish and looked perfect in my opinion against the dial. Sorry Rolex, with this buyer - the previous design is better. 

The Case Shape and Wearability

Case shape and wearability are in my opinion improved in the latest model. The case seems thicker but somehow better proportioned on the new version. I always thought the previous version felt somehow too flat on my wrist compared to the Submariner. With the reference 216570 version (produced from 2011-2021), it may have to do with the length/width of the lugs or the case thickness, it somehow doesn't feel right. The latest version feels honestly perfect. The reference 226570, feels like a larger watch overall then before but more comfortable for sure. In this area current design is improved. They look almost identical when side by side, but somehow they feel slightly different on the wrist.

The Bracelet and Clasp

Bracelet and clasp up next, and sadly the new version is just too wide for my tastes. The previous taper was perfect. I like the fast taper and the previous buckle and bracelet felt, dare I say more Rolex? The new design is good– it’s just not as good as the old one.  The functionality and quality is the same but the overall width starting at 22mm at the lugs going to 20mm on the buckle just doesn’t do it for me like the previous generation. Sorry Rolex, the old guy is better. 

The Movement

Finally we move on to the movement. This to me is a big improvement. I like the longer power reserve a lot. It may even be the best overall feature. I have enough watches that I rotate between them and at times it might be 2-3 days between wearing each of them. The fact that I don’t need to wind the watch and reset the time is really nice. To me this was a gigantic improvement. 

Final Thoughts: Rolex Explorer II (216570) vs the Explorer II (226570)

Overall, I feel that the new version is better. I suspect you are rolling your eyes, due to me finding things that I felt were almost deal breakers. However, wearability of a watch is frankly the most important feature when comparing two watches and the new 226750 is more comfortable on the wrist. This single item really makes this watch zing. 

Missed Opportunity

I do have one final closing remark/question that seems to baffle me: “Why didn’t Rolex make the Explorer II with a Ceramic Bezel?” This single change may have elevated this watch to new worlds. The watch world was pretty surprised and disappointed when Rolex released this latest version with a steel bezel again. It was somewhat of a let down for me as well. There is always hope on this point, but knowing what a ceramic bezel did for the Daytona - I am shocked Rolex didn’t make this a feature and/or the new standard for the model.

I can’t deny that I love my original  Explorer II on a rubber strap because not only does it look amazing, but it increases the comfort and wearability ten fold. I’m a big fan of the orange because of how it complements the hand, but I also swap the orange rubber strap out for a black rubber strap pretty frequently. You really can’t go wrong. Check out our collection of Explorer II straps  here and if you have an older model, we have you covered  here as well. Lastly the three slot watch pouch shown in the pictures can be purchased  here .

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Rolex Yacht-Master vs Yacht-Master II, What’s The Difference?

Starting with the Explorer II in the 1970s, Rolex has created a few model spin-offs over the years , where the second version is often larger or more technically advanced than the original. Aside from the Explorer II, there’s the GMT-Master II, the Datejust II, and more recently, the Yacht-Master II. But what exactly are the differences between the Yacht-Master and the Yacht-Master II? Join us as we outline all the details as we compare the Yacht-Master vs Yacht-Master II.

Origins: Yacht-Master vs Yacht-Master II

Rolex introduced the Yacht-Master in 1992 as an ultra-luxe sports watch with a nautical flair. The first reference in the collection was the Yacht-Master ref. 16628–a solid gold watch to emphasize the luxuriousness of the then-new Rolex model.

From its 40mm Oyster case to its rotating timing bezel to its Oyster bracelet, Rolex opted for 18k yellow gold for the very first Yacht-Master. Over the course of its history, the Yacht-Master collection welcomed other sizes and materials and today, it is one of Rolex’s most varied sports watch models.

The Yacht-Master II is a much younger Rolex watch , having made its debut in 2007. Featuring a regatta chronograph inside its large 44mm Oyster case, Rolex positioned the Yacht-Master II as a tool watch for professional racing sailors.

Like the original Yacht-Master, the first models of the Yacht-Master II were also 18k gold models but Rolex offered the choice of the white gold YM II ref. 116689 with a platinum bezel or the yellow gold YM II ref. 116688 with a blue ceramic bezel. Although the Yacht-Master II is still only available in one size, Rolex has added other metal options to the collection.

Design: Yacht-Master

Through the Yacht-Master is a varied collection , the defining traits of the watch include a water-resistant (to 100 meters) Oyster case, a Twinlock winding crown, a undirectional rotating bezel with raised numerals marked to 60 minutes, and the familiar Rolex sports watch dial layout with geometric lume-filled hour markers and Mercedes-style hands. The Yacht-Master is a time and date Rolex watch, therefore the dial is home to the date window at 3 o’clock accompanied by the customary Cyclops magnification lens protruding from the sapphire crystal.

Rolex has made the Yacht-Master in a number of case sizes throughout the decades: 29mm, 35mm, 37mm, 40mm, and 42mm. Rolex no longer makes 29mm or 35mm and currently only offers the latter three sizes.

Materials wise, Rolex originally made the Yacht-Master in yellow gold, stainless steel with a platinum bezel (dubbed Rolesium), and two-tone steel and yellow gold. These days however, Rolex no longer uses yellow gold in the Yacht-Master collection, opting for Everose gold (the brand’s proprietary rose gold alloy) instead. What’s more, Rolex recently added for the first time a Yacht-Master in white gold. Therefore, the Yacht-Master is now available in stainless steel with a platinum bezel, white gold, Everose gold with a black ceramic bezel, and two-tone steel and Everose gold.

While Rolex originally fitted the Yacht-Master exclusively with the three-link Oyster bracelet, in 2015, the brand debuted the black rubber Oysterflex bracelet. However, the Oysterflex bracelet is currently only available on the 37mm and 40mm Everose gold Yacht-Master and the 42mm white gold Yacht-Master.

Design: Yacht-Master II

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is one of the brand’s largest watches with a 44mm Oyster case, fitted with a Triplock winding crown, a pair of chronograph pushers, a Ring Command bezel, and an Oyster bracelet. It is also one of Rolex’s most complicated modern watches, complete with an innovative regatta chronograph with a programmable countdown feature (1 to 10 minutes) and a mechanical memory. Interestingly, rather than just a decorative element, rotating the Ring Command bezel is how you program the countdown function of the Yacht-Master II, which can be synchronized to the sequence of race start times during a regatta.

One of the most striking design elements of the Yacht-Master II is its dial design, which is unlike any other Rolex watch. The hour and minute hands are at the center while accompanied by the running seconds subdial at 6 o’clock. Arching above the center hands, from 8 o’clock to 4 o’clock, is the countdown display whereby the red arrow-tipped hand indicates how much time is left on the countdown. There’s also the central chronograph hand, which can flyback or fly-forward back to its starting position while in motion.

For the first decade of its production, the Yacht-Master II featured straight center hands and square lume-filled hour markers. However, as of 2017, Rolex switched to Mercedes-style hands and added a triangular hour marker at 12 and a rectangular hour marker at 6 to sit alongside the square ones.

The Yacht-Master II is available in a few different material versions: stainless steel with a blue Cerachrom bezel, yellow gold with a blue Cerachrom bezel, two-tone stainless steel and Everose gold with a blue Cerachrom bezel, and white gold with a platinum bezel.

Yacht-Master & Yacht-Master II References

Below is a comprehensive list of Rolex references for both the Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II collections.

Yacht-Master References

Yacht-Master II References

YM or YM II?

While they share the same name, it’s clear that the Yacht-Master and the Yacht-Master II are quite different. Yes, they’re both nautical-inspired Rolex sports watches, yet the first is smaller and more refined while the latter is larger, bolder, and more complex.

Whether you decide on the Rolex Yacht-Master or the Yacht-Master II depends largely on the size of what you’re looking for. If you want an oversized Rolex chronograph, then the Yacht-Master II may be right for you. If however, you are looking for a Rolex sports watch that is 40mm or smaller, then the Yacht-Master range is the better option.

Regardless of which model you pick, the Yacht-Master and the Yacht-Master II are fantastic Rolex watches inspired by a life at sea.

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Oyster Perpetual

Yacht-Master

Staying on course, mapping invisible routes.

For those at sea, staying on course is a constant challenge. When dealing with the elements, nothing is certain and constant reaction is required to stay in the right direction. Since its launch in 1992, the Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master has been equipped with a bidirectional rotatable bezel that facilitates the calculation and reading of navigational time. Elegantly combining functionality and nautical style, this watch has made its mark well beyond its professional realm.

A shared quest for precision

Knowing where you are in space and time, setting a course and sticking to it are vital in navigation. Given its function, the watch is an essential tool for sailors to assess their position. Regarded as the most precise horological instruments in the world, marine chronometers have been certified by astronomical observatories since the 18th century. At the time, the ultimate authority for measuring chronometric precision was the Kew Observatory in Great Britain.

In 1914, the founder of Rolex, Hans Wilsdorf, had one of the brand’s watches tested by this very observatory, which certified it as a chronometer: a first in the watchmaking world for a wristwatch. Since then, renowned sailors, such as Sir Francis Chichester and Bernard Moitessier, have navigated the seas with Rolex wristwatches serving as onboard chronometers.

Matching the precision of marine chronometers was fundamental to Rolex’s watchmaking.

Designed for navigators

Sailing occupies a special place in the world of Rolex. In 1958, the brand partnered the New York Yacht Club, creator of the legendary America’s Cup. Rolex then formed partnerships with several prestigious yacht clubs around the world and became associated with major nautical events – offshore races and coastal regattas.

These strong ties culminated in 1992 with the launch of the Yacht-Master. Boasting the robustness and waterproofness of our Oyster case, this chronometer is fitted with a bidirectional bezel with raised 60-minute graduations to enable navigational time to be calculated and read.

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Precious on land and at sea

Available in three diameters – 37, 40 and 42 mm – and in various precious versions – 18 ct yellow, white and Everose gold – as well as in Everose Rolesor and Rolesium versions, the Yacht-Master is unique in the world of Rolex professional watches. An elegant watch with a sporty character, it was the first to be paired with an Oysterflex bracelet in 2015.

In 2023, after testing under real-life conditions by acclaimed helmsman Sir Ben Ainslie, Rolex launched a new version of the Yacht-Master 42. It is made of RLX titanium, a high-performance material, at once light, robust and corrosion resistant.

A veritable ally at sea, the Yacht-Master also elegantly adorns the wrists of navigators once back on solid ground. With many different versions, it is a model that transcends its seafaring origins. It has become a watch for those who know how to change course without losing sight of the horizon, moving freely.

Yacht-Master 42

Oyster, 42 mm, yellow gold.

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Overview of the Rolex Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II

The Rolex Yacht-Master range encapsulates luxury and precision in a line of nautically inspired timepieces. Introduced in 1992, this Rolex watch borrows heavily from the Submariner series. The original Yacht-Master- the ref. 16628 with a 40mm Yellow Gold case, Cyclops lens over the date, triple lock crown, and Oyster bracelet- was modeled after the first ever Submariner- ref. 16610- which has a 40mm stainless steel case.

They both used the Caliber 3135 movement!

The tool watch gained traction with time, coming in various case, material, and bracelet options, as we shall see shortly. It’s no wonder it’s among Rolex’s most varied pieces in the Professional series.

Meanwhile, Rolex introduced the Yacht-Master II more than a decade later in 2007. It’s a watch tailored to the needs of professional sailors with its innovative regatta chronograph. 

Housed in a more robust 44mm Oyster case, it leveraged Rolex’s expertise in precision and functionality, offering a programmable countdown with mechanical memory for yacht racing. Distinguishing itself from its predecessor, it brought a new level of technical sophistication to the yachting world.

Design Characteristics

The Yacht-Master line portrays the typical design layout of Rolex sports watches, with an Oyster case (that’s water-resistant to 100m), a Twin-lock winding crown on the side of the case for setting the time and date and winding the movement manually, lume-filled Mercedes-style hands and hour markers, and a date function at three o’clock that’s amplified by a Cyclops magnifier lens on the crystal.

On the other hand, the Yacht-Master II takes on a more daring design, featuring a larger Oyster case (water-resistant to 100m) with a Triplock winding crown and chronograph pushers for operating the regatta chronograph, a busier dial with a programmable countdown feature (1 to 10 minutes), and a special Ring Command bezel that’s also present in Rolex’s Sky-Dweller collection .

Interestingly, the Yacht-Master II and Sky-Dweller are some of Rolex’s most complicated watches for now.

The Yacht-Master comes in various case options, namely 29mm (discontinued), 35mm (discontinued), 37mm (Rolex Yacht-Master ref. 268621), 40mm (Rolex Yacht-Master ref. 126622), and 42mm (Rolex Yacht-Master Oysterflex ref. 226659).

In terms of materials, Rolex has utilized several precious metals in the collection:

• Yellow Gold
• Stainless steel and Yellow Gold (Yellow Rolesor)
• Stainless steel with a Platinum bezel (Rolesium)
• Everose Gold (a patented proprietary Rose Gold alloy)
• Stainless steel and Everose Gold (Everose Rolesor)

In contrast, the Yacht-Master II is only available in a 44mm case size. It’s available in fewer material alternatives:

• Stainless steel with a blue ceramic Cerachrom bezel
• Stainless steel and Everose Gold with a blue ceramic Cerachrom bezel
• White Gold with a Platinum bezel (discontinued)
• Yellow gold with a blue Cerachrom bezel

Bezels 

The two watches have a bidirectional rotatable bezel that’s integral for tracking sailing time intervals. The difference comes in their designs.

The Yacht-Master has a bezel crafted from gold or platinum. This rotating bezel has raised numerals and 60-minute graduations. Plus, it operates independently from the watch’s inner mechanism.

The Yacht-Master offers a more noticeable Ring Command bezel with the ‘YACHT-MASTER II’ inscription and molded 1-10 numerals in varying colors depending on the materials used. The Yacht-Master II’s bezel is connected to the movement, and its wearers use it to operate the regatta chronograph function.

The watches’ dials are well-suited for their respective purposes. 

The Yacht-Master has a simpler dial design, with Mercedes-style hands and round/triangle/rectangle or gem-set hour markers. Rolex has used several luminous materials on these excellent luxury watches over the years:

• SuperLumiNova
• Chromalight

The Yacht-Master II has a more detailed and functional dial with slimmer hands decorated with Chromalight lume, a red arrow-tipped hand, a central chronograph hand, square-shaped hour markers, a countdown function with mechanical memory that gracefully curves from 8 to 4 o’clock, and a running seconds subdial at 6 o’clock.

The red arrow-tipped hand shows how much time is left in the countdown. Meanwhile, the central chronograph hand can fly back or fly forward to its starting position while in motion, and the countdown function allows skippers to sync it on the fly to match the official race countdown (it’s the first in the world, BTW).

Note: The Yacht-Master II had square hour markers and straight baton-shaped hands from 2007 to 2017. 

2017 welcomed several changes: an inverted triangle at 12 o’clock, a rectangular hour marker at six o’clock, and a Mercedes-style hour hand to offer more lume and enable easier differentiation from the minute hand.

Bracelets and Clasps

Rolex equips the Yacht-Master with Oyster and Oysterflex bracelets. The three-piece Oyster offers classic luxury and sturdy comfort and is finished with a high polish or brushed look. It also has a secure Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system that ensures the watch remains fastened around the wrist.

As for the Oysterflex bracelet , it’s a black strap crafted from a flexible Titanium and nickel alloy metal blade at its core and is clad in a high-density elastomer. It also boasts a tiered design that raises the timepiece away from the wrist and a Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system.

The YachtMaster II also features an Oyster bracelet, typically equipped with the Rolex Glidelock system, allowing fine adjustments and reflecting its more technical and sporty heritage.

Caliber Comparison

The Rolex Yacht-Master lineup features various movements, with the Yacht-Master 37mm housing a self-winding Caliber 2236 movement, the same movement used in Datejust 36 and Datejust 41 timepieces . It has 31 jewels, a 55-hour power reserve, and a 28,800vph frequency. 

Meanwhile, the 40mm and 42mm watches utilize the Caliber 3235, a well-respected automatic movement recognized for its reliability. This 31-jewel movement operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (vph) and offers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. 

In contrast, the Yacht-Master II is equipped with the self-winding Caliber 4161, a chronograph movement specifically developed for this model’s unique regatta countdown function. It has 48 jewels, a 72-hour power reserve, and a 28,800vph frequency.

Technical Details at a Glance

The following table highlights the specifications of both watches discussed above and more:

When comparing the Rolex Yacht-Master and the Yacht-Master II, consumers frequently have questions regarding their differences, pricing, availability, and rarity. The following subsections aim to address these common inquiries.

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

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Rolex Yacht-Master 40 vs Yacht-Master II

March 17, 2023.

As we alluded to in our previous article on Rolex's Explorer II, the watches Rolex designs and makes are made with a specific purpose in mind, even if they do end up sitting in a safe as an "investment piece". With that in mind, it's worth exploring the Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II as they have some striking differences.

The Yacht-Master 40 126622

A modern-day classic, the Yacht-Master 40 126622 seems closer to the diving-focused Submariner than anything else. The bezel appears to have the same graduated markings, the 40mm case looks pretty much the same at a glance, and the watch comes with an Oyster bracelet. 

But, when you look closer, you see some subtle differences. For example, the Oyster bracelet is both brushed and polished to give the watch a bit of extra flair, and the Yacht-Master's case is smoother and more pebble-like than the almost angular Submariner. 

When the Yacht-Master as we know it today first appeared in 1992, it had precious metals in the case, which helped signify that this was meant to be more luxurious than the utilitarian Submariner. Even today, this continues. The example we have in our store at the time of writing has a bezel made of solid platinum with the markers raised up instead of engraved into the bezel, despite the rest of the case and bracelet being made of stainless steel.

While it's true that the Yacht-Master seems to be a more luxurious Submariner, Rolex was careful to ensure the two watches don't cross paths entirely. For example, while the bezel on the Submariner is a true diver's bezel that only turns in one direction (the safer direction), the bezel on the Yacht-Master turns either way despite having the same 60-minute graduations as the Submariner. Also, the Submariner has a 300m water-resistant case, but the Yacht-Master's is only 100m, although they both have a Triplock crown to prevent ingress if you leave it unscrewed for some reason.

Further, the Yacht-Master comes with different coloured dials to choose from, and it can come in three different diameters: 37mm, 40mm and 42mm. Also, if you want to fork out the cash, a couple of solid gold options are available with Rolex's unique Oysterflex rubber strap. 

For most, the Yacht-Master is an excellent alternative to the Submariner, which everyone and their mum seems to have these days.

The Yacht-Master II 116680

The Yacht-Master II is the more sizeable, more complicated and, some would say, less attractive second generation of the Yacht-Master range. Like with the Explorer and Explorer II, the Yacht-Master II isn't a direct replacement for the Yacht-Master, instead taking its place alongside the original in the boutique window (if they have any, that is).

The Yacht-Master II is also more focused on the task than the original. It's difficult to say precisely what equipment a watchmaker can make that someone with a yacht might need. A reliable timepiece should be obvious, but these days boats come equipped with everything you could need to sail successfully.

Regattas (boat races) start with a countdown, after which the yachts can begin the race. I tried looking up the rules to starting a regatta, but I got confused, I guess us landlubbers will have to stick with regular chronographs. Anyway, the Yacht-Master II features a particular type of chronograph which differs from nearly everything else. 

A typical chronograph, as you'd find in a Daytona, connects to the going train of the movement when the pusher is pressed using a clutch. This then powers the chronograph, which moves clockwise and records an elapsed time. Regattas begin with a countdown, and the yacht crew are required to synchronise their watches to ensure they don't cross the start line too early, which could result in a penalty. 

Rolex developed a unique chronograph-come-countdown timer for the Yacht-Master II, which includes the patented Ring Command bezel. A combination of the bezel, crown and lower pusher sets the chronograph. It also sets the chronograph's "memory" so that should it need to be reset, it can be done on the fly. The chronograph is then ready to be used as a normal one would, with the top pusher starting and stopping the chronograph and the lower pusher resetting it to its memorised position. If all of that seems like overkill for a watch which probably won't be used for that purpose, you're probably right. But, it is a great demonstration of what can be achieved. 

The watch is reasonably practical, too, with 100m of water resistance to match the Yacht-Master 40. It can even come in a stainless steel-only case if precious metals aren't your thing. It also has a ceramic bezel which is better at resisting scratches.

So, what are the downsides other than (potentially) the chronograph? Well, it's pretty pricey, more so than the Yacht-Master 40, and it's also much bigger. To fit all of that in, including the Ring Command bezel mechanism, and seal it up well means the case is 44mm with no other sizes available.

So, which to buy?

That's an incredibly personal decision, and you should ideally visit our store in Cardiff to see both. We will say that the Yacht-Master 40 will likely be to the tastes of more people due to its size and attractive silver dial with sunray polishing, at least in this spec (we also love the blue seconds hand). It is also more useable as a daily. However, the Yacht-Master II will likely keep you occupied longer with its intricate chronograph, and it's also a rarer beast to spot out in the wild. There’s also something very cool about having this watch, as it stands out from the rest of the Rolex crowd, it’s hard to describe just how unique it is.

These are just two excellent examples of the watches we sell at Watches of Wales. Don't worry if we don't have the watch you want in stock. We buy and sell a lot of watches, so another one is bound to come around, but you can always contact us, and we can help you source the perfect timepiece for your collection.

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Rolex Yacht-Master II vs. Rolex Sky-Dweller Comparison

Although they are by far the two most complicated watches in Rolex’s current lineup, on the face of it, the Sky-Dweller and the Yacht-Master II wouldn’t seem to have that much in common. Certainly, as far as the visuals are concerned, there is a world of difference. One is elegantly understated, the other just about as in-your-face as anything in the portfolio. However, once you get away from the aesthetics, the pair of watches actually share a number of similarities. Below we examine each model, and explore what makes them both rather special additions to the Rolex lineup.

Rolex Complications

Rolex has built much of its unassailable reputation by producing watches that are stylish, elegant, robust, and most of all, mechanically simple. Aside from the Daytona’s chronograph complication, as far as Rolex’s main production models are concerned, a GMT function or the President’s double calendar is really as complicated as the brand has ever gotten.

Dig back far enough into the archives and you will find a moonphase model from the 1950s (now resurrected in the Cellini line) but apart from that, for the first century in business, Rolex has really been perfecting the art of the simple three-hand time teller, with perhaps a date display if you’re lucky.

The Rolex Yacht-Master II

That all changed in 2007, when Rolex launched the sequel to the original Yacht-Master, and brought us the inventively titled Yacht-Master II. Identical to its sibling in no way whatsoever, the Yacht-Master II (sometimes referred to as the Yacht-Master 2 or YMII) was as radical a departure from the usually conservative Rolex playbook as you could get.

At 44mm, it was easily the largest watch in the collection, and was a big, bold attention-grabber marketed at a particularly niche section of the buying public. Shouting its name in huge letters across the bezel, and given a mishmash of elements on its dial, there was no chance of it going unnoticed. It was released in two variants initially, the ref. 116689 in white gold was the slightly more underplayed (and expensive) of the pair, while the ref. 116688 in yellow gold with a bright blue Cerachrom bezel was the real grandstander.

Inside both, the Cal. 4160 was a heavily reworked version of the Daytona’s Cal. 4130, and it powered the industry’s first programmable flyback or fly-forward regatta timer with a mechanical memory. What would you possibly ever need one of those for? Well, the clue is very much in the name, with the watch built explicitly for the world’s competitive yacht-racing crowd.

Rolex has been involved in the impossibly glamorous sport of professional sailing for decades, sponsoring some of the highest profile events around the globe, including the Rolex Fastnet and the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. It was to help captains of the ships in these races overcome the timing challenges of regatta competitions that the Yacht-Master II’s very specific complication was invented.

Each contest begins with a countdown to the starting gun, usually between five and 10 minutes long, during which the boats must tack back and forth behind the start line. The watch’s timer allows the wearer to set that duration on the dial as a normal method but, crucially, also gives the ability to resynchronize it with the official clock if it is accidentally started too early or late. In addition, instead of a typical flyback, the Yacht-Master II resets itself forward or backwards to the nearest minute rather than to zero.

The complex operations require not only two pushers either side of the winding crown, but also the first generation of Rolex’s Ring Command Bezel, which links the outer bezel of the watch directly to the internal movement. The bezel on the Yacht-Master II serves as a form of analogue on/off switch, locking and unlocking the various features, to facilitate the setting process for the countdown timer.

Since the original launch of the Yacht-Master II collection, the range has expanded to include a two-tone Everose Rolesor edition and an all stainless steel piece, both fitted with blue Cerachom bezels. In 2013, the Yacht-Master II got an update to its movement in the form of the Cal. 4161. An evolution of the Cal. 4160 that contains 360 components and took Rolex over 35,000 hours to devise.

Although no one was in any doubt that the watch was an impressive technical achievement, the aesthetics split opinions. There was none of the subtlety that traditionalists have long valued with Rolex, with the face made up of an unusual set of features – a small seconds sub dial at the bottom and a horseshoe-shaped counter around the top, numbered 1 to 10 for the regatta countdown, along with an arrow-tipped additional hand.

However, as with many offerings from the brand, the Yacht-Master II’s looks have found their footing over time, and the watch has become more and more accepted. Today, although not worn by that many skippers (in the same way Rolex’s dive watches rarely see the ocean) the Yacht-Master II has certainly found an appreciative audience beyond its intended boat-racing market.

The Rolex Sky-Dweller 

Even though you would never guess from its appearance, the Sky-Dweller is an even more complex beast than the Yacht-Master II. Its graceful silhouette and fluted bezel land it firmly in dress watch territory, and at first glance it could be mistaken for a Datejust or Day-Date. However, look closer and you see the dial has far more information to tell us than either of those classic pieces, and it actually does what no other Rolex watch ever has.

As well as a date function at the standard three o’clock position, the rotating off-centered disc is a new take on a dual time zone display, and expertly hidden is the brand’s first ever annual calendar. To cram all that in on a watch with no additional buttons to ruin the symmetry of the case is little short of amazing, and involves an updated version of Rolex’s Ring Command Bezel. This time, instead of just allowing the functions to be turned on and off like on the Yacht-Master II, the Sky-Dweller’s three-position bezel selects each individual operation as you rotate it, and all settings and adjustments are done with just the winding crown.

First released in 2012, the Sky-Dweller was originally only available in all precious metal; either yellow gold, Everose gold, or white gold. The hefty price tags attached to each, coupled with the somewhat unorthodox looks, meant that the watch failed to catch on at the beginning. Three more versions followed in 2014, with a changeup of dial color and bracelet options, but they were still pricey, solid-gold affairs.

It was only in 2017 that the first two-tone and stainless steel models arrived (albeit with an 18k white gold bezel), with a corresponding drop in price, bringing the Sky-Dweller within reach of a wider audience and starting it on its journey towards its current highly desirable status. All iterations are driven by another massively complex movement, in this case the Cal. 9001. Made up of 380 parts, it is the most component-heavy caliber Rolex has made and powers not only the standard functions and the GMT, but also the annual calendar, a system that the brand calls SAROS.

Like all annual calendars, the Sky-Dweller’s date only needs correcting once a year, at the end of February. At all other times, the mechanism compensates for the different number of days in the month. And the way it presents the month display for the complication is also unique: above each of the 12 hour markers is a small aperture, used to represent the month of the year. The current one is filled in in a solid color – so a blocked out window above the six o’clock signifies June, over the seven is for July, etc. It is a superbly economical way of doing things, and allows for a far more uncluttered display than would otherwise be possible.

The GMT function is likewise a novel experience. The small inner disc does away with the need for an extra hand as on the GMT-Master or Explorer II. Instead, it is simply marked with a 24-hour scale and rotates to show the correct time at the top, which is indicated by a small triangle. All told, the Sky-Dweller adds up to one of the most complete and impressive luxury traveler’s watches presently on offer.

Yacht-Master II vs. Sky-Dweller

So we have two pretty extraordinary watches, each designed for a definite purpose, and containing technology unseen anywhere else in the brand’s collection. One is a born showman, the other quietly sophisticated, but both do their respective jobs extremely well.

Is there a case for calling one better than the other? Like all these things, is it completely subjective. Yes, the chances are that you will rarely (if ever) use the Yacht-Master II’s party piece for its intended purpose. However, the countdown timer can still be used for timing anything else (just as long it doesn’t take more than 10 minutes). Additionally, it is a quirky, imposing, supersized watch that is guaranteed to get you seen.

The Sky-Dweller, on the other hand, wins out in day-to-day usability, with the annual calendar one of the most valued complications a watch can have, and the GMT functionality perfect for jet-setters or frequent travelers. At 42mm, it is also slightly more compact than the Yacht-Master II, and can be worn with a wider selection of outfits. The model you choose will always come down to personal taste, but it is reassuring to know both come from just about the finest watchmaker on the planet, and have an engineering virtuosity that is second to none.

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.

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