Watch Ideas
Rolex Yacht-Master vs. Daytona: Wristwatch Comparison
If you’re in the market for a high-end watch and you’ve settled on the Rolex Yacht-Master or the Rolex Daytona , the reality is that you can’t go wrong—both are backed by the trusted Rolex brand, after all. Nevertheless, each series of watches includes select options and unique features that might give you the edge you’re looking for. Today we are comparing the Rolex Yachtmaster vs Daytona.
From reviewing the specifications and highlights of each watch, on the whole, I prefer the Yacht-Master series—specifically the original Yacht-Master collection (we’ll get to that)—to the Daytona line, on account of its slim, sleek contour and (to-be-expected) reliability. That said, there is much to recommend the later Yacht-Master II and the Daytona, and if you are primarily looking to fill a technical, functional need with your watch purchase, then the original Yacht-Master, the simplest of the three, may not be the best choice.
First things first, choosing a watch from the Rolex line means several certainties: you know you’re getting a reliable and durable chronograph, you know you’re adding a stylish piece of apparel to your wardrobe, and you know that every time you put it on, you’ll have wandering eyes fixated in envy on your classic timepiece.
But this isn’t a decision to take lightly. It’s an expensive investment, and not all watches—even high-end ones—are made equally. In this case, it isn’t just a question of “Are you a sailor (Yacht-Master) or a racer (Daytona)?” The Daytona series has a design optimized for measuring high speeds, while the Yacht-Master provides additional timekeeping functions the likes of which you might find handy during a regatta . Let’s take a closer look at all they can do.
The Yacht-Master
The yacht-master ii, the rolex cosmograph daytona: the ultimate chronograph, related posts, the rolex yacht-master: the watch of the open seas, official description.
The Rolex Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II models embody the spirit of the sailor. Inspired by the rich heritage that has bound Rolex to the world of sailing since the 1950s, the Yacht-Master blends function and style, while the Yacht-Master II brings together the finest in Rolex technology to create a regatta chronograph built for yachting competition.
As the description notes, choosing the Yacht-Master series means making another choice: the original Yacht-Master (debuted in 1992), or the Yacht-Master II (first released in 2007).
The headline model of the Yacht-Master series is the Yacht-Master 40 , though Rolex also released a slightly smaller option, the Yacht-Master 37 . For the purpose of this review, I will focus on the headline model, but both the 40mm and the 37mm options can be configured to the buyer’s preference in terms of material, color, and dial type.
Specifications
- Model Case: Oyster, 40mm, 18 ct Everose gold
- Oyster Architecture: Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown
- Bezel: Bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel with matt black Cerachrom insert in ceramic, polished raised numerals, and graduations
- Winding Crown: Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system
- Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date
- Water-Resistance: Waterproof to 100 meters / 330 feet
- Movement: Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding
- Calibre: 3135, Manufacture Rolex
- Precision: -2/+2 sec/day, after casing
- Functions: Centre hour, minute, and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting
- Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours
- Bracelet: Oysterflex: Flexible metal blades over-molded with high-performance elastomer
- Clasp: Folding Oysterlock safety clasp
- Dial: Black, with highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence
The headline model, reference number 116655, is designed with an Everose gold trim, a black watch-face, and the Rolex patented rubber Oyster strap, the first rubber strap on any model of Rolex watch. The Oysterflex strap, branded as a sporty alternative to the typical metal strap , is also hypoallergenic, so allay any concerns you may have in that regard.
The design, though uncommon, is not unbecoming. It matches the aesthetic of the chic watch face well, and in fact, the slim style of the rubber strap carries its own elegance that matches the rather svelte original Yacht-Master . Practically, it has the advantage of the ease of use and even more ease in cleaning, should it get muddy or slimy while you bandy about the wet rigging of your sailboat, as the absence of metal links, eliminates a natural trap for dirt or otherwise.
The primary unique feature of the watch– the bi-directional rotatable bezel for recording time (when sailing between two buoys, for example)–is a distinct advantage to those who intend to put their watch to the practical test beyond merely keeping time. Whether you’re on the high seas or cooking steak in the backyard, any reason to leave your phone untouched (in this case, for the timer), and to put your new Yacht-Master to use, is a good reason.
The original Yacht-Master is an integral watch in the Rolex collection, and the headliner, Everose gold with black Oyster strap, will set you apart as a connoisseur in the timekeeping world. Whether the occasion calls for formal business attire, or if you’re stretched out on the boat for the weekend, your Yacht-Master will strike the right tone .
Don’t take the release of a second series of Yacht-Master watches as an indication that the first series didn’t make the grade. That said, if you opt for the newer option, you will be rewarded with several new features. Again, this review will focus on the headline watch, reference number 116680, a 44mm watch with a steel plate, but as always Rolex gives you the option to customize your selection.
- Model Case: Oyster, 44mm, 904L steel
- Bezel: Bidirectional rotatable Ring Command bezel. Blue Cerachrom insert in ceramic, engraved numerals and inscription
- Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire
- Water-Resistance: Waterproof to 100 metres / 330 feet
- Movement: Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding, regatta chronograph
- Calibre: 4161, Manufacture Rolex
- Functions: Centre hour and minute hands, small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. Programmable countdown with mechanical memory and on-the-fly synchronization. Stop-seconds for precise time setting
- Power Reserve: Approximately 72 hours
- Bracelet: Oysterflex, flat three-piece links of 904L steel
- Clasp: Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension
- Dial: White, with highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence
Let’s start with two mechanical/functional differences from the original Yacht-Master, and we’ll consider the stylistic changes second. Both watches offer a perpetual, self-winding movement, but this newer watch adds to that the regatta chronograph, a programmable counter for up to ten minutes, ideal for timing the starting sequence of a regatta . Rolex touts this innovation as the product of nearly 35,000 hours of development, resulting in a complex mechanism that uses some 360 parts.
As a result, Rolex produced one of the first watches with a bezel synchronized to the movement of the watch itself. The timer can be locked into place beforehand, and the wearer simply toggles the knob on the side of the watch to start, or synchronize the timer with the watch. The new Yacht-Master also has a battery life of approximately 72 hours, compared with the 48 hours of the original .
As for the physical appearance of the Yacht-Master II, the most notable difference is its size, which is 44mm across the face rather than 40mm like the original . This is a minor difference, but when the watch is clasped around your wrist–which, presumably, it will be–the difference is noticeable, as those additional few millimeters more or less cover the skin that otherwise remains exposed with the original watch.
The additional space also allows for a slightly more embellished watch-face on the Yacht-Master II, most notably the inclusion of a small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. The additional features do give the impression of a bulkier watch, and really it will be a matter of taste if you prefer the larger or small dimensions. For my taste, I prefer the slimmer cut .
Finally, the newer Yacht-Master is designed with a metal clasp, rather than the innovative rubber strap of the original. The metal clasp can be extended by 5mm for comfort. This is a more classic look for high-end watches, though the rubber strap is far from inelegant, and I have already given the reasons why it adds merit to the Yacht-Master , especially for anyone intending to put the watch to its semi-aquatic intended use. That said, either watch can be adjusted and configured to your preference of a rubber or metal clasp, so neither watch takes advantage in this regard.
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, introduced in 1963, was designed to meet the demands of professional racing drivers. With its highly reliable chronograph and bezel with a tachymetric scale, it allows drivers to perfectly measure average speeds up to 400 kilometers or miles per hour, as they choose. An icon eternally joined in name and function to the high‑performance world of motorsport.
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is one of the classic timepieces of the Rolex brand. Its durability and lasting favor speak for themselves, as does the lifetime endorsement of Paul Newman, who supposedly wore his original Cosmograph Daytona every day from 1972 until his death in 2008 . This review will look at the 116503 model, but, again, the watch components can be configured to the buyer’s demand.
- Model Case: Oyster, 40mm, Yellow Rolesor – combination 904L steel and 18 ct yellow gold
- Bezel: Fixed, with engraved tachymetric scale, in 18 ct yellow gold
- Caliber: 4130, Manufacture Rolex
- Functions: Centre hour, minute and seconds hands, small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. Chronograph (center hand) accurate to within 1/8 of a second, 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock and 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock. Stop-seconds for precise time setting
- Bracelet: Oyster, flat three-piece links
- Dial: Black, with snailed small counters
The feature most obvious when observing the Daytona watch is the presence of three small-timers inside the main watch face. The Daytona is designed for the speedsters of the world, and that means it is precise to the ultimate degree. The middle counter, positioned at 6 o’clock, is the second hand; the counter on the right records minutes lapsed, and the counter on the left records hours lapsed. Seconds can be measured to 1/8th of a second .
On the circumference of the watch face, the dials used for the timing mechanisms are designed to screw down into the machine when not in use to ensure the timepiece remains waterproof. When they are in use, they are designed to be perfectly waited to respond to the wearer’s instantaneous pressure, so as to maximize accuracy in recording matters of great precision, like lap times.
Stylistically, the watch stands up to its reputation. Despite all the counters and features readily and intuitively available at a glance, the watch face manages to maintain a clean countenance all within a 40mm width. There are no excess tics or trivialities. Everything about the watch is designed for maximum efficiency . And in that delicate push-and-pull between efficiency and style, Rolex settled on the balance you see on the Daytona watch that has enabled it to survive over half a century as a symbol for quality and elegance. There is little to dislike in this timepiece .
Conclusion – Rolex Yachtmaster vs Daytona
Any time you’re deciding between high-end watches, a large part of the decision will simply come down to personal preference . Neither the Yacht-Master nor the Cosmographer Daytona will disappoint when it comes to performance, and they’re guaranteed to impress when it comes to style. With that in mind, if you are looking for a watch that will fulfill a specific function beyond simple timekeeping –that is to say if you are a car enthusiast looking for a watch primed to measure and calculate speeds, or if you need a watch worthy of your own sea legs, or what have you– then your best value will be whichever watch is designed to most closely match your needs .
But sometimes you don’t need a watch suited for high-speed road racing or that can perfect your regatta race. Sometimes you need a watch that will set you apart at the office and with your clients. Sometimes you need a watch that will turn heads around town. Sometimes you just need a watch. And for my money, if you’ve narrowed your search down to the Yacht-Master and the Daytona: go with the original Yacht-Master . It’s slim, it’s slick, it’s simple, and in simplicity there is beauty. The more sober the statement, the bolder the claim .
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The Oysterflex Bible – every Rolex Oysterflex reference, named and rated
We all know only too well how a Rolex Oyster or Jubilee bracelet embraces the wrist unlike any other assembly of steel parts available. It’s a watch bracelet with the feel of silk. Lesser common an experience is the sampling of an Oysterflex bracelet, Rolex’s version of a rubber strap. At the time it was released, the brand stridently avoided that description, by the way. We must mention neither the war, nor rubber.
Back then, it seemed like typical watch industry doublespeak – where every commoner material is granted a loftier title. That is, until it was in the hand; Rolex was perfectly right . Through typical – and utterly masterful – over-engineering, the brand succeeded in elevating the whole concept of rubber strap to another level. Since then, it’s become a ‘Flex by name, and a flex by nature – this is every current Rolex Oysterflex reference, in one handy place.
The beginning of the Oysterflex story
With its debut in 2015 on the 40mm and 37mm Yacht-Master , it made Rolex fun, dare we say it, even ‘urban’ and thereby captured a younger audience in the process. This was at the very dawn of ‘Athleisure’, and the tracksuited, Yeezy set happily spent double the price of a classic Submariner on a large gold sports watch on soft rubber.
I’m happy to admit I was of the staunch belief that while rubber was comfortable on my divers, when spending more than $20,000, the mere mention of it would make me laugh … it’s not premium, is it? Well, think again. The Oysterflex bracelet made me raise an eyebrow from day one, when Rolex insisted this was a bracelet and not a strap, unexpectedly not the point of contention it may seem. The material is a flexible high-density elastomer, which is commonly utilised for high performance bushings in sports cars. The raised eyebrow is back up — now raised out of interest. This sets the bar, revealing the years of research behind a mere strap (sorry, bracelet).
This is why it’s a ‘bracelet’, not a strap
The Oysterflex is, in 2020, by far the best example available of a rubber bracelet on the market, offering the durability of metal, the assurance and class of a deployant mechanism, and the comfort of rubber. Encased within the elastomer is a titanium-nickel core, giving it shape and structural integrity on or off the wrist. The bracelet itself features a patented tiered design and gives you a hitherto unknown feeling of comfort even on warmer days, as the shape lifts the bracelet up from your wrist with wing-like curved cushions.
This lends the Oysterflex a very different feeling to the lint-magnet clingy silicone you associated with the first raised eyebrow. A raised upper section creates a well-needed depth to the design, tapering discreetly to the brilliant solid gold Oysterlock deployant. The Oysterlock in itself is a detail good enough to spend an hour locking and unlocking if only to appreciate the haptics of the clasp. And yes, the genius of Easylink, allowing you an easy extension of the bracelet by around 5mm for a more relaxed fit in the summer heat when your wrist might expand by a millimetre or two.
They could not have made a bigger splash in 2015 than launching the Oysterflex on the sharply redesigned black dial Yacht-Master. The Everose gold, in its warm tone, was the perfect counterpoint to the matt black rubber strap, with the totally un-Rolex move of glossy black details on a matt black Cerachrom bezel. In an instant, Rolex went from your dad’s Sunday best, to out-customising the customisers with a dark take on cutting-edge luxury sports. Mic dropped, and AD stocks instantly depleted.
Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm ref.116655, the Origin of the Species
Yes, this watch is still the best of both worlds, with the warm glow of Everose gold and matt black looking at once tough yet precious on its black elastomer bracelet.
The sharpest applied indices this side of a surgeon’s scalpel is paired with the brilliant touch of a gold print logo under 12 o’clock, while the fresh red Yacht-Master logo is a touch of fresh genius. Read Andrew’s original, sharp in-depth piece here . RRP: The Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm ref. 116655 was $31,600AUD at time of launch and is now $38,600AUD. A pavè diamond dial version is available as ref.126655
Rating: The OG, and still the King.
Rolex yacht-master 37mm ref.268655.
Let’s be a bit cheeky here and look at the smaller brother of this warm-hued beauty. This is a perfect smaller edition of the original 40mm Yacht-Master, here in 37mm and still marketed as a ladies’ watch. Personally, I have both 36 and 38mm watches that are some of my absolute favourites in terms of wearability, so let’s open this one up to both sexes, shall we? The insider’s tip is that this one will be easier to get hold of at your local AD, and boy does it wear comfortably on the wrist, effortlessly slipping under a cuff and just as full of delightful gold and black elastomer contrast as its larger 40mm brother. RRP: The Rolex Yacht-Master 37mm ref. 268655 is $32,750AUD – Also available is a pavè diamond dial version like its 40mm brother has the ref.126655
Rating: I rate this model as unisex, and more likely than every other Oysterflex model to be available.
Rolex Yacht-Master 42mm ref.226659, in white gold
Well, what can we say? The ref.226659 is simply more of a good thing, keeping the matt black Cerachrom bezel of the original, though here in solid 18k white gold — an example of stealth irony, which appeals tremendously to me. This Yacht-Master is ironically safer to wear on the street than a ’90s bi-colour GMT, thanks to its monochrome look, black Oysterflex and dark bezel, giving it a distinct tool watch vibe.
The contrasts work brilliantly, with the crisp white print and dazzle of the 18k white gold case being a sharp contrast to the black elastomer bracelet. Stealth Wealth is a term of ever-increasing popularity in 2020, and this would be the perfect choice. Read our story from 2019 here , and have a look at our reaction when it was unveiled at Baselworld here . Price: The Rolex Yacht-Master 42mm ref. 226659 is $40,750AUD
Rating: One of the greatest stealth wealth watches of all time
2017: The Daytona chronograph enters the ring
A year after the phenomenal reception of the steel and Cerachrom Daytona with its added strength and lustre to the bezel, Rolex introduced all three precious metal iconic chronographs with what was by now the talk of the town, the Oysterflex. All leather options on Daytonas are now replaced by the brilliance of titanium-nickel encased in elastomer, and gives the already sporty Daytona a tougher vibe. Should you want to bling it up there are plenty of exquisite diamond set and mother of pearl dials to choose from.
We covered this release in 2017 , and already then posed a question that will end this Oysterflex piece by yours truly … no points for guessing what we wanted to see. The Daytona models available on Oysterflex are the white gold reference 116519LN, the Everose gold reference 116515, and the yellow gold reference 116518LN you will find covered in our story here. Prices: The Rolex Daytona ref. 116519LN is $41,850AUD , the Rolex Daytona ref. 116515LN is $41,850AUD and the Rolex Daytona ref. 116518LN is $40,150AUD
Rating: Less lit than Lil Yachty, but a nice way to twist a classic
New for 2020, the Rolex Sky-Dweller joins the Oysterflex family
The Rolex Sky-Dweller will never be a discreet timepiece or a tool watch; it owns its own rarefied air as the most complicated wristwatch in the Big Crown’s catalogue, and it is expressly for the wrist of business class travellers and beyond. Even with our sub-40mm focus today, 42mm is not large when you consider the inherent ergonomics of any Rolex case from 37 to 42mm, and why not enjoy some of the world’s most perfect bevels and dial details on a slightly larger canvas. The Sky-Dweller is the last reference to make you enjoy the soft embrace of the Oysterflex, and we covered this latest release in our story here.
Rating: The biggest ‘Flex yet, literally (because this model is 42mm)
The dazzling ones
Yes, we have an even stronger dial to give maximum effect and more flex than the bracelet can ever muster (sorry!), and that is the full dazzling shock value of a full pavè diamond dial on a matt black soft elastomer bracelet. Enjoy the comfort only an Oysterflex can bring to the party, and mix up your Haute Horlogerie with a healthy dose of pizzazz. And should you go searching on the pre-loved scene, there is also a rainbow bezel reference 116695 to be found should the pavè not be dazzling enough for Sir..
Price: The Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm ref.126655 is available. Price on request. As they say, if you don’t think you can afford it, don’t ask.
To conclude, Rolex rocks with the Oysterflex
It’s as simple as that. The group of staunch supporters of The Crown with eyebrows raised in shock at the mere notion of rubber touching the precious metal of a Rolex case is still there … all of four people. This was the contemporary boost that Rolex needed, and on that blessed day when they decide to fit the Oysterflex on a 41mm Submariner, well, may God help us all.
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Rolex Chronographs: Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II
The Daytona is, without a doubt, Rolex’s most famous chronograph model. However, it is sometimes overlooked that a Rolex does, in fact, manufacture another chronograph collection – the Yacht-Master II. While both are technically chronograph watches, they are actually very different timepieces, both inside and out. Today we will be comparing the brand’s duo of contemporary chronograph models, the Rolex Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II.
So, how do these two Rolex chronograph watches differ when it comes to their designs and functionality? Let’s find out as we review these stylish used Rolex watch models .
Origins: Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II
Rolex first unleashed the Cosmograph Daytona in 1963 as a chronograph dedicated to motorsports. However, as manually-wound models with 38mm cases, vintage Daytona watches are significantly different from the versions of today. It was only in 2000 that we saw the first iterations of today’s Daytona models; that is to say, 40mm watches that run on in-house automatic chronograph movements.
These editions of the Rolex Daytona collection carry six-digit reference numbers and are powered by the Caliber 4130. Prior to this generation, there were the five-digit Daytona models fitted with Rolex-modified, Zenith El Primero automatic movements, which were produced from 1988 until 2000.
In total, the Daytona utilizes three different generations of movements. First was the hand-wound generation, followed by the automatic Zenith generation, and then the automatic in-house Rolex caliber 4130. The collection has one of the most intriguing histories on the market, spanning decades and producing countless design variations, and even the famous Paul Newman Daytona that fetched one of the highest sums on the secondary market of nearly $18 million.
On the other hand, the Yacht-Master II is a relatively new Rolex model, having made its debut in 2007. What’s more, when it was released, the Yacht-Master II was Rolex’s largest watch, sporting a 44mm case. As its name implies, the Rolex Yacht-Master II was developed for the sailing crowd, rather than the automobile racing crew. In addition to its over-the-top case size and design, the Yacht-Master II was also the brand’s most complex watch (until the introduction of the Sky-Dweller in 2012), equipped with a regatta chronograph, complete with mechanical memory and fly-back functionality for facilitated synchronization.
Design: Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II
The Daytona’s 40mm case comes fitted with a pair of screw-down chronograph pushers flanking its screw-down winding crown. This is to keep any moisture out of the watch, ensuring its 100-meter water resistance. The fixed bezels of the Daytona watches – crafted from either metal or Cerachrom (ceramic) – are engraved with a tachymeter scale (except for the gem-set bezel editions), while the dials house a trio of subsidiary registers.
In true Rolex fashion, there are plenty of different dial colors and index styles to choose from. Material options within the six-digit Daytona family include stainless steel, yellow gold, white gold, Everose gold, two-tone steel and yellow gold, and platinum. Most Daytona models come with metal Oyster bracelets however, there are some gold Daytona watches that are presented on black rubber Oysterflex bracelets as well. Rolex previously manufactured leather-strap versions but they are no longer in production.
In direct contrast to the Daytona’s classic looks and restrained proportions, the Yacht-Master II is proudly big, bold, and badass. Its bezel – either in bright blue Cerachrom (ceramic) or platinum – sits on the 44mm case and is emblazoned with the “YACHT-MASTER II” name, along with numbers 1 – 10. The white dial with red and blue accents offers three distinct areas for three readings: the center hands, the 10-minute countdown display, and the running seconds sub-dial.
Early editions of the Yacht-Master II included straight hour and minute hands until around 2017, while current versions have the familiar Mercedes-style hands. The hour markers received a small upgrade from blue to white gold surrounds to match the hands. Additionally, Rolex replaced the square hour marker at 12 o’clock with an inverted triangle and the marker at 6 o’clock with a slightly elongated baton hour marker. Material choices of the Yacht-Master II include yellow gold, white gold (with a platinum bezel), stainless steel, and two-tone Everose gold and steel. Additionally, all Yacht-Master II watches come with matching metal Oyster bracelets.
Calibers and Functionality: Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II
Manufactured entirely in-house, the Daytona’s Caliber 4130 has been heralded by many watch enthusiasts as one of the most reliable and robust automatic chronograph movements on the market. One of its defining features is the use of a vertical (rather than lateral) clutch to activate the chronograph. This not only permits the chronograph hand to run smoothly without any signs of “jittering,” but also allows the chronograph function to run for a long time with no influence on the Daytona’s precision. Thanks to Caliber 4130, the Daytona features a chronograph hand accurate to within 1/8 of a second, a 30-minute counter at 3, a 12-hour counter at 9, a small seconds register at 6, and a power reserve of 72 hours.
When Rolex launched the Yacht-Master II in 2007, inside the watch was the Caliber 4160, which was then upgraded to Caliber 4161 in 2013. While these in-house chronograph calibers are based on the Caliber 4130, they are much more complex in terms of functionality. Rolex maintains that the Caliber 4160/4161 was the result of over 35,000 hours of development.
Most intriguing, the bezel on the Yacht-Master II is not just for show. Instead, turning it allows the user to flip through what functions of the watch to set. And one of these functions includes a programmable countdown timer (from 1 – 10 minutes), which also memorizes the desired setting t when you reset the timer. So, if you love a seven-minute jammy egg or a four-minute brew, then your Yacht-Master II is there for you.
The central chronograph hand also has flyback functionality, which means that you can reset it back to zero with the press of a single button while it is in motion. Additionally, just like its base caliber, the Cal. 4160/4161 also has a 72-hour power reserve.
While both chronographs have countless everyday applications, they cater to two totally different niches. The Daytona, with its motorsport roots, was initially developed to help the wearer record various stats while driving, such as speed, distance traveled, and elapsed time. On the other hand, the Yacht-Master II was inspired by regatta and features a race countdown mechanism.
How to Use The Bezels on Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II
The Daytona bezel is fixed, so its primary function relies on the chronograph movement. To activate the chronograph, press the top pusher above the crown. The chronograph seconds hand will start to race around the dial. The top pusher will also stop the chronograph while the bottom pusher resets it to zero. For example, to measure speed, simply activate the chronograph by pressing the top pusher. Once you’ve driven a mile, stop the chronograph by pressing the top pusher again. The chronograph hand will point to the corresponding speed on the Tachymeter bezel.
The Yacht-Master II bezel is connected to the movement and it is often referred to as a “Ring Command Bezel.” To use the programmable regatta countdown, you first need to unscrew the crown and rotate the bezel counterclockwise 90 degrees. Then, press the bottom pusher and turn the crown clockwise to move the arrow hand to the desired 10-minute count-down increment. Once the bezel is rotated back to its original position and the crown is screwed back into the case, you can press the top pusher to start or stop the countdown. The chronograph seconds hand will begin to move around the dial, once every minute. The famous flyback and fly-forward functionality is engaged by pressing the bottom pusher, sending the arrow hand backwards or forwards to the nearest minute in the countdown.
Side-by-side, these two Rolex chronographs look nothing alike. The Daytona offers traditional chronograph styling and functionality, while the Yacht-Master II is more aggressively designed and offers a niche complication in the form of a regatta chronograph. So, which one would be your pick?
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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COMMENTS
Dear friends, I need some advice and opinion on which Daytona OF to get. I’m considering between 116518LN Paul Newman and 116515LN sundust. Will appreciate your comments and suggestions.
From reviewing the specifications and highlights of each watch, on the whole, I prefer the Yacht-Master series—specifically the original Yacht-Master collection (we’ll get to that)—to the Daytona line, on account of its slim, sleek contour and (to-be-expected) reliability.
A list of every Rolex watch with an Oysterflex rubber bracelet, including Daytona, Sky-Dweller & Yacht-Master models
If you had the option would you chose oyster flex Daytona or the oyster flex yachtmaster 40/42
The Daytona offers traditional chronograph styling and functionality, while the Yacht-Master II is more aggressively designed and offers a niche complication in the form of a regatta chronograph. So, which one would be your pick?
Was debating between the Daytona or the new yacht master 42 yellow gold. I really like the sporty look of the Oysterflex with precious medal. Now it’s just a matter of getting my hands on one!