rolex yacht master original price

The Rolex Yachtmaster: history, models, price

Table of Contents

(NEWS) The Monaco Legend Group will auction a one-of-a-kind Rolex Yacht-Master

The rolex yacht-master dix millionieme chronometre.

The Yacht-Master auctioned on April 22 and 23 in Monaco is one of the most attractive one-of-a-kind contemporary Rolex watches and popped up in the early nineties to celebrate the ten-millionth Rolex watch equipped featuring the Chronometer Certificate.

Interestingly, it is not a Daytona, a Submariner or a Day-Date but a Rolex Yacht-Master, thus adding additional flavour to our guide as no other model could ever do. May we call it the Rolex Yacht-Master Heiniger ? Yes, we might, but we need to move forward and provide further details.

The Heiniger family and Rolex

The model pictured here was manufactured under the Heiniger family’s leadership at Rolex; they managed the brand since Andre Heiniger was appointed President of Rolex in 1964 through his son Patrick’s appointment in 1992.

This one-off platinum Yacht-Master is a prototype conceived to celebrate such a milestone and holds all the features found on first-class super-exclusive Rolex timepieces, and adopts baguette-cut sapphires and diamonds replacing the stock indexes plus the “DIX MILLIONIEME CHRONOMETRE” print on the dial, and the calibre 3135’s oscillating mass.

The Heiniger family had, no doubt, a soft spot for platinum watches ; three unique platinum Daytona also appeared under their management and, according to industry’s rumours, the Daytona 116598 SACO, better known as the Leopard, was among their projects inspired, it seems, by Nina Stevens, Patrick Heiniger’s girlfriend back then.

However, the Rolex Yacht-Master Heiniger is not a unicorn adorning a watch museum ; it will soon go under the hammer thanks to the Monaco Legends Group, the auction house co-managed by vintage watchmaking guru Davide Parmegiani, the 22 and 23 April.

Given the relevance of the timepiece and its exclusivity, we expect fierce competition among collectors to make this piece theirs. What is the auction’s base price? The current estimation is between one and two million euros , quite a hefty price gap but something hard to predict for any watch expert.

The origins of the Rolex Yachtmaster

When did the Rolex Yachtmaster first appear? It’s hard to define. The name “Yacht Master” was filed for patent by Rolex in 1950 and, according to rumours and several non-confirmed historical sources, marked the brand’s willingness to introduce a new collection atop the top-selling and sporty Submariner; yet, it’s hard to describe the time lapse between patent and the first official commercial release. When we look at the current collection, we can also find inspiration in the most challenging endeavours across the oceans, up to professional yacht racing.

For instance, the former includes the expeditions set out by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston . He completed the first-ever solo circumnavigation of the globe, the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race of 1969, but we can’t forget what Sir Francis Chichester achieved, too; he circumnavigated the world from West to East in nine months and one day between 1966 and 1977 aboard the never-forgotten Gipsy Moth IV.

During his expedition, Chichester wore a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Chronometer, laying the foundations for what a Rolex watch represents when tested under extreme weather conditions on land, sea and air.

The first Yachtmaster

The first Rolex Yachtmaster dates back to 1992 ; it was marketed as reference 16628 and is the second most recent new Rolex watch after the more contemporary Rolex Sky-Dweller.

The collection’s timeline has undergone a bizarre evolution compared to similar Rolex watch collections.

Showcasing an 18-carat yellow gold case and bracelet paired with an unusual white dial , it housed the movement 3135 and is undeniably an evolution of the design codes seen on a Submariner, despite the journey to the first edition being unexpected and with plenty of testing prototypes.

Was the Yachtmaster pictured above the first attempt ever? It was from a commercial standpoint, not from a product perspective instead. The Yachtmaster moniker first surfaced between 1967 and 1969 when Rolex released a couple of prototypes based on the Daytona , whose case diameter had grown to 39.5 mm. The timepieces mentioned above belong to Italian collector John Goldberger and artist Eric Clapton.

The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 and 37 mm

Here is the Yacht Master’s “bread and butter”, undergoing several evolutions to end up with the model pictured here, as an example, in its gold and steel livery. With Jean-Frèdèric Dufour appointed CEO, Rolex has revisited the entire offering, which includes 40 and 37-mm large models, but has never hit the spot as the most wanted Professional Rolex among enthusiasts. The Daytona , Submariner, or GMT Master 2 are far more sought-after than any Yachtmaster, although the appreciation has steadily grown year after year .

Instead, the Yachtmaster’s technical development began with the 2007 Rolex Yacht-Master 2 116680 , whose sailing-professionals-oriented complication proves, alongside a Rolex Sky-Dweller, how much Rolex technicians are up to the task when asked to design a mechanically complicated watch.

Rolesor and Rolesium.

The current Yachtmaster collection with bracelets includes a completely revised range, comprising seven models : four 40 mm and three 37 mm models. They are available exclusively in steel and gold or platinum; some come in Rolesium (steel and platinum), others in Rolesor (steel and gold) such as, for instance, the Rolex Yachtmaster 40mm model in steel and Everose gold pictured here, also available with a black dial and as a 37mm size.

Let’s look closer at the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 in Steel and Everose Gold : it combines 904L steel and Everose pink gold, the Rolex-patented pink gold alloy adopting a specific silver and copper percentage to create an alloy capable of offering above-the-average shine, and wear resistance over time.

The Yachtmaster’s bezel

What makes the Yacht-Master unique is the bezel’s design in finish and functionality; it houses mirror-polished raised indexes and numerals on a sandblasted base and comes as a one-piece of gold or platinum. The polished to brushed finish appears on the Oyster bracelet and case sides, lugs included.

The Yachtmaster is widely considered a more luxurious take on the Submariner and a transition model between a sporty and classic Rolex watch with a gold case, as proved by the slightly curved lugs and the case side, making the Yachtmaster closer to four and five-digit Submariners as less professional than other timepieces belonging to the same product category, as exemplified by the specs sheet. The bezel is graduated but is bidirectional and water-resistant up to 100 metres .

Comparing current and first-ever Yachtmaster like the Rolex 69623 or 169622, for instance, lies in the options available: you’ll find the blue dial exclusively available on Rolesium models, while the Rolesor offers a chocolate brown or black dial , lovingly contrasting the case and bracelet’s tones, in our opinion.

The calibre 3235

Since 2019, the Rolex Yachtmaster has housed the latest-gen Rolex calibre 3235. Therefore, all models can run for at least 70 hours when fully wound.

The watch is certified as a Superlative Chronometer according to Rolex standards.

The calibre 2236

Instead, the 37 mm model adopts the smaller movement 2236, whose technical specifications differ slightly .

The main difference is that the Siloxy hairspring with a flat terminal curve , introduced by Rolex in 2014, replaced the Parachrom Blue one.

The Rolex Yachtmaster Oysterflex

At Baselworld 2015, Rolex released the first Yachtmaster with an Oysterflex bracelet , the brand’s patented rubber strap equipped with an inner nickel and titanium alloy, exclusively offered with a 40mm or 37mm gold case. Looking back at the first-ever YM, the Yachtmaster Oysterflex is perhaps the perfect successor to the 1992 Yacht Master.

The first release appeared in Everose rose gold. Such a new generation best embodies the collection’s spirit ; it belongs to the Professional line of watches but is more luxurious, and gold highlights the Yacht Master’s “carrure”.

The new Yachtmaster Oysterflex also introduced the first-ever matte ceramic bezel ; it mimics a Rolesor or Rolesium’s, but the inlay is a single piece of matt black ceramic.

As with the two-tone models, the 40 and 37-mm case options adopt the 3235 and 2236 , respectively. The new model had a stunning success, and Rolex soon expanded the product range by offering a more generous 42 mm case size (however, the 40 mm model is unparalleled, in our opinion).

The 42mm collection is available in yellow or white gold , while the 40mm and 37mm models only come with an Everose rose gold case. We think Rolex will soon extend the Oysterflex collection by adopting new case materials.

In 2020, Ineos Britannia’s skipper Ben Ainslie was spotted wearing a titanium Yachtmaster 42 during a training session. After the Rolex Deepsea Challenge Titanium RLX ‘s unveil, this proto will likely make it to reality anytime soon.

Before moving to the next chapter, remember that we discovered an odd model while surfing the Rolex official website: Rolex Yachtmaster 42 Hawkeye or Yachtmaster Falcon’s Eye , pictured above.

The Rolex Yachtmaster 2

Rolex is a manufacturer whose capabilities include rather mechanically-complicated watches ; it is something most people are unaware of. In the same price range as a Daytona, for example, you can opt for at least two complicated models: one is the regatta-ready Yachtmaster 2.

If an ordinary Yachtmaster is not as “professional” as its siblings, the Yachtmaster 2 is a full-fledged tool watch for professional skippers.

The complicated Rolex: from the Sky-Dweller to the Yacht-Master 2

The Rolex Yachtmaster 2 is bold and hefty; it’s a regatta timer and something you will, on paper, disregard when compared to a Rolex Sky-Dweller. The Rolex Yachtmaster 2 was conceived to provide professional skippers with a wrist instrument capable of accurately measuring the countdown to start a regatta.

The link between Rolex and yachting is long-established: the brand has associated its image with several sailing competitions like the Farr 40 or the Sidney–Hobart ever since. Pictured below is a map of the current partnerships.

The 5 to 10 minutes preceding the start of a regatta are paramount to any skipper and their crew; last-minute performance before the start is triggered can separate victory from defeat.

Most Regatta watches do not offer a dedicated function but make the most of ordinary chronograph functions. In contrast, the Rolex Yachtmaster II has a dedicated counter on the dial, coaxial to the bezel, equipped with a graduated scale from 0 to 10 minutes and an easy-to-read arrow hand.

The Countdown function: how to activate it.

The timer setting is straightforward and achieved by combining the bezel, crown and button at 4 o’clock in this sequence. The first operation is to rotate the bezel counter-clockwise to activate the small countdown counter adjustment system.

The bezel will automatically lock after a 90° rotation or when the “Yacht-Master II” writing appears on the right-hand side of the watch (the rotation axis of the crown ideally cuts the wording in two halves). Subsequently, please push the button located at 4 o’clock. Unscrew the crown until it locks in position 1 ; from that moment on, you can control the adjustment of the (jumping) 10-minute scale in one-minute intervals by rotating the crown clockwise.

After stopping the minute counter on the desired value, you need to rotate the bezel clockwise until it clicks into the position where the “Yacht-Master II” writing is again aligned at the bottom (-90 °, back to the original place).

At the end of this rotation, the two-minute scales, located on the bezel and the dial, respectively, will be fully aligned. By screwing back in the winding crown, you can restart the countdown (using the button at 2 o’clock); the red hand in the middle will start running, and the minutes’ countdown will begin .

During the countdown, you can stop the hand can by using the button at 2 o’clock or re-set the complete countdown with the button at 4 o’clock (Flyback). The countdown will start from the original position in the second case scenario. When the countdown has finished, the minute’s hand will also stop, while the second’s hand will continue to run indefinitely. The Rolex Yachtmaster II is a chronograph with a Flyback function .

The 2017 Rolex Yachtmaster II 116680 reference has replaced the previous reference by introducing a series of updates ; the new version is now equipped with Mercedes-styled hands, thus aligning itself with the family feeling of the other Oyster Perpetual divers, like the Submariner. Moreover, new applied indices located at 12 and 6′ clock have been launched (arrow-shaped and rectangular-shaped, respectively).

Ring Command and calibre 4161

The Ring Command bezel is integrated with the calibre and is an active part of the user experience. The level of complication and perfection this mechanism requires (firm clicks and no play) is more challenging than any other Rolex timepiece, making this watch extremely attractive.

At the same time, as per the usual Rolex tradition, the complication is concealed through a simplified aesthetic , although the dial is still more complex and crowded than those standards that Rolex has made us accustomed to, and this is one of the reasons why a Rolex Yachtmaster II is rarely a first choice when it comes to selecting a timepiece.

Rolex Yachtmaster Prices

The price list starts with the Yacht-Master 37 mm at 14,450 Euros and grows to the 43,800 Euros needed for a Yacht-Master 2 model in yellow gold . For instance, a more exclusive price list is requested, as with the reference 126655. The listed price range here is updated to February 2023; if you’re looking for a more comprehensive overview, please head to our dedicated article; there, you’ll find a price list and evolution since 2021 regarding the most coveted professional Rolex watches.

(Photo credit: Horbiter®)

Editorial team @Horbiter®

Giovanni Di Biase

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Rolex Yacht-Master

• Yacht-Master
• Yacht-Master II
• Rolex 16622
• Rolex 168622
• $7,000 to $10,000
• $10,000 to $15,000
• $15,000 to $20,000
• Stainless Steel
• Yellow Gold
• 2010 to Present

• $ 23,495 Buy
• Get Quote Sell

• $ 29,495 Buy

• $ 14,995 Buy

• $ 8,595 Buy

• $ 10,995 Buy

• $ 9,995 Buy

• $ 15,795 Buy

• $ 11,995 Buy

• $ 13,895 Buy

• $ 6,995 Buy

• $ 8,495 Buy

• $ 12,495 Buy

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

The Rolex Yacht-Master made its debut in 1992, designed specifically for sailors and yachting enthusiasts. With its unique features and striking appearance, the Yacht-Master quickly became a symbol of excellence in the sailing world. Over the years, Rolex has continued to refine and improve the Yacht-Master, introducing new materials, sizes, and complications to meet the evolving needs of sailors and watch aficionados alike. To learn more about the fascinating history of this iconic timepiece, explore our in-depth article on the Rolex Yacht-Master history .

Rolex Yacht-Master Features

The Rolex Yacht-Master boasts an impressive array of features that set it apart from other luxury watches. Our Rolex Yacht-Master review dives into the details that make the Yacht-Master a true icon in the world of horology.

At the heart of the Yacht-Master lies a self-winding mechanical movement, ensuring precise and reliable timekeeping. The Rolex Yacht-Master movement is certified as a Superlative Chronometer, undergoing rigorous testing to guarantee its accuracy and performance. With its rigorous testing and certification, the Rolex Yacht-Master movement stands as a pinnacle of horological excellence, meeting the demands of both luxury and performance.

The Yacht-Master features a distinctive bidirectional rotatable bezel, which allows sailors to measure elapsed time and synchronize with regatta starting times. The Rolex Yacht-Master bezel is crafted from precious metals or Cerachrom, Rolex's proprietary ceramic material, offering durability and resistance to scratches and fading. Crafted from premium materials such as precious metals or Rolex's innovative Cerachrom ceramic, the Yacht-Master bezel not only ensures durability but also maintains its pristine appearance over time, making it a hallmark of both function and luxury.

Whether opting for a more understated or commanding presence, there's a Yacht-Master size to complement every individual style and comfort level. The Rolex Yacht-Master size is available in a range to suit different preferences and wrist sizes:

• Diameter: The Rolex Yacht-Master diameter comes in 37mm, 40mm, and 42mm options 
• Dimensions: The Rolex Yacht-Master dimensions vary based on the model 
• Lug to Lug: The Rolex Yacht-Master lug to lug distance is proportional to the case size 
• Lug Width: The Rolex Yacht-Master lug width is compatible with various strap options 

Complementing its sophisticated design, the Yacht-Master presents a selection of Rolex Yacht-Master band options, ranging from classic Oyster bracelets to supple rubber straps, providing both versatility and refinement to match any occasion or personal style preference. The Yacht-Master offers several Rolex Yacht-Master band options to complement its elegant design:

• Bracelet: Oyster and Oysterflex Rolex Yacht-Master bracelet options provide comfort and durability 
• Leather Band: A Rolex Yacht-Master leather band is a sophisticated choice for a more formal look 
• Rubber Strap: A Rolex Yacht-Master rubber strap is ideal for water activities and a sporty aesthetic 
• NATO Strap: A Rolex Yacht-Master NATO strap is a versatile and trendy option for a casual style 

The Rolex Yacht-Master dial is available in various colors, including white, black, champagne, and mother-of-pearl. Embodying both style and functionality, the Rolex Yacht-Master dial ensures effortless readability in any environment. The dial features luminescent hands and hour markers for optimal legibility in any lighting condition.

Water Resistance

With a Rolex Yacht-Master water resistance of 100 meters (330 feet), the watch is suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. Yacht-Master's water resistance adds to its allure as a trusted companion for seaside escapades. Whether cruising the waves or lounging by the pool, this timepiece combines elegance with durability, ensuring style and functionality in every aquatic endeavor. However, it is not recommended for deep-sea diving.

Yacht-Master Rolex Price

Investing in Excellence The price range for Yacht-Master models varies depending on factors such as size, materials, and complications. Pre-owned Rolex Yacht-Master watches offer an excellent opportunity to own a piece of horological history at a more accessible price point. When considering a Yacht-Master, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the Rolex Yacht-Master model numbers, as they can provide valuable information about the watch's features and production year.

disc. = discontinued

Rolex Yacht-Master Models

The Rolex Yacht-Master collection offers a range of models to suit different tastes and preferences. Let's explore the main Yacht-Master models:

Yacht-Master 37

The Yacht-Master 37 is the smallest model in the collection, perfect for those with smaller wrists or those who prefer a more understated look. Ideal for those seeking a more petite option without compromising on performance, the Yacht-Master 37 offers a perfect blend of elegance and functionality in a compact design. Despite its smaller size, the Yacht-Master 37 retains all the impressive features and functionality of its larger counterparts.

Yacht-Master 40

The Yacht-Master 40 is the quintessential model in the collection, offering a balance between presence and wearability. This model is available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, yellow gold, white gold, and Everose gold, allowing you to choose the perfect combination to suit your style. Whether navigating the open seas or enjoying a leisurely day onshore, this timepiece embodies the spirit of adventure with elegance and ease.

Yacht-Master 42

Crafted with precision and attention to detail, the Yacht-Master 42 combines luxurious aesthetics with rugged durability, embodying the spirit of adventure on both land and sea. As the largest model in the Yacht-Master collection, the Yacht-Master 42 makes a bold statement on the wrist. With its increased size, the Yacht-Master 42 offers enhanced legibility and a more substantial presence, ideal for those who prefer a more prominent timepiece.

Popular Rolex Yacht-Master Comparisons

When considering a Rolex Yacht-Master, it's natural to compare it with other popular Rolex models and even watches from other luxury brands. Comparing the Rolex serial numbers can also be a helpful way to understand the differences between various models. Let's look at some common comparisons:

Rolex Yacht-Master vs. Submariner

When comparing the Rolex Yacht-Master vs Submariner , both are nautical-inspired watches, but the Submariner is designed primarily for diving, while the Yacht-Master is tailored to the needs of sailors and yachting enthusiasts. Both the Yacht-Master and Submariner exemplify Rolex's commitment to excellence in both form and function, offering impeccable performance and timeless style.

Rolex Yacht-Master vs. Yacht-Master II

In the comparison of the Rolex Yacht-Master vs Yacht-Master II , the Yacht-Master II is a more complex timepiece, featuring a programmable countdown with a mechanical memory and on-the-fly synchronization. The Yacht-Master, on the other hand, is a more straightforward and versatile watch, suitable for both on and off the water.

Rolex Yacht-Master vs. Sea-Dweller

When looking at the Rolex Yacht-Master vs Sea-Dweller, the Sea-Dweller is a professional diving watch with a water resistance of up to 4,000 feet (1,220 meters), while the Yacht-Master is designed for sailing and water activities with a water resistance of up to 330 feet (100 meters).

Rolex Yacht-Master vs. Omega Seamaster

When comparing luxury watch brands, the Omega vs. Rolex debate often arises. While both brands offer exceptional timepieces, the Rolex Yacht-Master and the Omega Seamaster cater to different preferences and styles. Ultimately, the choice between the Yacht-Master and Seamaster comes down to personal preference, with Rolex appealing to those who value tradition and prestige, while Omega appeals to enthusiasts seeking innovation and versatility.

Expert Opinion

"The Rolex Yacht-Master is a striking maritime watch that combines high style and functionality in a single package. The collection features a resilient waterproof case, a clean and legible dial, and a rotatable bezel with 60-minute graduations. With its innovative design and phenomenal performance, the Rolex Yacht-Master is a prime investment for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line luxury watch."

- Paul Altieri, Founder and CEO of Bob's Watches

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

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.

Why Choose Us

Bob's Watches is a trusted and established purveyor of pre-owned Rolex watches with decades of experience. We promise a 100% satisfaction guarantee, ensuring that customers are fully satisfied with their purchase or they can return it for a full refund. With a team of specialists who authenticate and examine each watch, and fair pricing on a large inventory of models, Bob's Watches is a reliable option for those looking to buy a pre-owned Rolex watch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good rolex yacht-master alternative.

While the Yacht-Master is a unique timepiece, some alternatives include the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra and the Panerai Luminor Yachts Challenge.

How to set date on Rolex Yacht-Master?

To set the date on your Yacht-Master, pull the crown out to the first notch and turn it clockwise until the correct date appears in the window.

How to tell if Rolex Yacht-Master is real?

To ensure the authenticity of your Yacht-Master, it's essential to purchase from a reputable dealer and familiarize yourself with the watch's features. Our guide on how to spot a fake Rolex can help you identify potential red flags.

How to wind a Rolex Yacht-Master?

To wind your Yacht-Master, unscrew the crown and turn it clockwise about 30 times. This will fully wind the mainspring and ensure optimal performance.

Is Rolex Yacht-Master a good investment?

Rolex watches, including the Yacht-Master, have a strong history of holding their value and even appreciating over time, making them a solid investment for watch enthusiasts.

Is Rolex Yacht-Master waterproof?

The Yacht-Master is water-resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet), suitable for swimming and snorkeling but not recommended for deep-sea diving.

Is Rolex Yacht-Master hard to get?

The availability of the Yacht-Master can vary depending on the specific model and demand. Some models may be more readily available than others, but working with a trusted dealer like Bob's Watches can help you find your perfect Yacht-Master.

What is the wait time for a Rolex Yacht-Master?

Wait times for a Yacht-Master can vary depending on the model and availability. However, purchasing a pre-owned Yacht-Master from Bob's Watches can often reduce wait times and provide more immediate access to your desired timepiece.

hroughout the years, Rolex has unveiled several versions of this iconic timepiece, offering a variety of bezel color options and material advancements. Discover the distinctive features of the Rolex Yacht-Master with the helpful links provided below.

• Rolex 126622
• Rolex 116622
• Rolex 16628
• Rolex 268622
• Rolex 268655
• Rolex 116680
• Rolex 226659
• Rolex 126655
• Rolex 16623
• Rolex 116681
• Rolex 168623
• Rolex 116689
• Men's Rolex Yacht-Master
• Ladies Yacht Master Rolex Watch
• Rolex Yacht Master Blue Dial
• Rolex Yacht Master Black
• Rolex Yacht Master Silver
• Rolex Yacht Master White Dial
• Rolex Yacht Master Rose Gold
• Rolex Yacht Master Gold
• Rolex Yacht Master Platinum
• Rolex Yacht Master White Gold
• Rolex 2 Tone Yacht Master
• Rolex Yacht Master Diamond
• Rolex Yacht Master Stainless Steel

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.