yacht master gold bezel

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

• $ 13,695 Buy
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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

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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

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Rolex Yacht-Master & Yacht-Master II: The Comprehensive Guide to the King of Sailing Watches

The Rolex Yacht-Master occupies a prominent but, for many, difficult-to-define area within the company’s overall portfolio. It’s regarded as a popular dress watch but is firmly positioned within the “Professional” collection. It looks a lot like a Submariner but isn’t really a dive watch, so it’s really not like a Submariner at all. It’s designed as a men’s watch but has become a canvas for some very feminine executions. And unlike other Rolex models that offer an original “I” and a second-generation “II” version, like the GMT-Master and Explorer, the Yacht-Master I and II are scarcely related in their design or functions at all. And yet, the Yacht-Master remains a top-tier timepiece both for Rolex and its legions of fans, and in its relatively short span on the market has welcomed a number of innovative materials and technologies into the Rolex fold. Read on to discover more about the Rolex Yacht-Master (in all its various versions) and what makes the model unique among its Oyster Perpetual brethren.

1967 - 1969 - The Prototype: Cosmograph Yacht-Master

Rolex Cosmograph Yacht-Master, circa 1967 (photo: Rolex Magazine.com )

While the Yacht-Master as we know it today traces its genesis only to 1992, the name appeared on a Rolex dial several decades before — on a watch that resembled more an evolution of the Daytona than of the Submariner — indicating that a sailing-themed watch was something that Rolex had been tinkering with as an organization for some time. In 1967, shortly after the debut of the Cosmograph (soon to be the Cosmograph Daytona) in 1963, Rolex developed a chronograph wristwatch prototype, with a three-register “reverse panda” dial and a tachymeter scale that it dubbed the “Cosmograph Yacht-Master” ( Reference 6239/6242); at 39.5mm, it was larger than the core Daytona model, which at the time was a fairly modest 36mm. Also setting it apart from all of its siblings in that collection is the odd addition of a multicolored scale at the bottom left of the 3 o’clock subdial, presumably to be used in concert with the chronograph function for counting down to the start of a yachting regatta. Only three examples of this model, which appears to have never been commercially released, are known to exist, one of them once owned by guitar legend and Rolex super-collector Eric Clapton. 

1992 - Enter the “Luxury Submariner”

The first Rolex Yacht-Master in yellow gold (Ref.16628, circa 1992)

The Rolex braintrust never fully abandoned the idea of a nautically inspired boating watch to join the diving-tool Submariner (and eventually its more robust successor, the Sea-Dweller), and the Crown finally pulled the trigger on it in 1992. The Ref. 16628 model, which launched the modern Yacht-Master collection, was intended as a more luxurious version of the Submariner, at the time still regarded as more of an upscale tool watch than a dressy sport watch appropriate to be worn on the deck of a yacht. Accordingly, it looks a lot like the Submariner in its primary aesthetic and technical details. Its dial featured the same Mercedes handset; the same eclectic assortment of circles, rectangles, and triangles at the hour markers; and the same Cyclops lens-enhanced 3 o’clock date window that the Submariner acquired in 1969, along with a very similar rotating bezel with a 60-minute scale. 

Rolex Yacht-Master Ref. 16628 with mother-of-pearl dial (photo: Analog:Shift )

The main differences are in the execution. For several years at that point, the case of the Submariner had been boasting a water resistance rating of 300 meters (still a standard for the model today), while the Yacht-Master’s case came in at a respectable but much more pedestrian 100 meters — again, more suited for being worn above the water than under it. While the case diameter of the newcomer was the same — 40mm — it was, along with its Oyster bracelet, made of 18k yellow gold, while the vast majority of Submariners were still made of 904L “Oystersteel.” The aforementioned bezel offers the most distinguishing differences: it rotates in both directions rather than one, another indication that the watch’s primary role was not to time dives (in which case, a unidirectional bezel that tracked how long the wearer had been underwater, and couldn’t be inadvertently moved for an inaccurate reading, was the safest option) but to be used for a more versatile array of calculations including counting down to the start of a yacht race. The more outwardly notable difference from its diving predecessor was the bezel’s 60-minute scale, which was relief-engraved directly onto the precious metal surface rather than etched into an insert made of aluminum, bakelite, or (as it is nowadays) ceramic. The overall effect was more streamlined and, objectively, more “luxury” than “tool” or “sport.” The movement inside was the same as the one the Submariner used at the time — Rolex’s “Perpetual” (i.e., automatic) Caliber 3135. 

As you might surmise from the evidence at hand here, the Yacht-Master’s remarkable resemblance to the Submariner is the result of neither coincidence nor design laziness. As watch companies are apt to do occasionally, Rolex had the notion at one point, probably during the 1980s, to upgrade and revamp the look of the Submariner — which, it’s worth remembering, had not really changed much since its debut in 1953. According to industry lore, propagated by some who were involved at the time, one of those experiments yielded a watch that Rolex executives were very bullish about — but not bullish enough to actually pull the plug on the “old” Submariner design and replace it with the newer, more luxurious one, hence the revival of the 1960s “Yacht-Master” name and the launch of what would be — until the debut of the Sky-Dweller in 2012 — Rolex’s newest product family.

1994 - 2005: Growing the Fleet: Midsize, Ladies, and Two-Tone Editions

In 1994, recognizing the potential unisex appeal of its first new timepiece collection since the Daytona, Rolex followed up the original Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master with a 35mm “Midsize” version (Ref. 68628) and an understatedly feminine 29mm “Lady Yacht-Master” model (Ref. 69628) Both were in yellow-gold, and both were powered by Rolex’s self-winding Caliber 2135, with a 42-hour power reserve. It was the first time in Rolex’s history that a model from its “Professional” series, which includes traditionally male-targeted models like the Submariner, GMT-Master, and Daytona, was offered in a smaller case size than that of the original. Even in the core 40mm sizes, the Yacht-Master template established in 1992 proved to be ideal for more decorative treatments; over the years, Rolex has released versions of the Yacht-Master 40 with ruby, sapphire, and diamond-set hour markers, mother-of-pearl dials, and even fully paved diamond-set dials.

In what would become something of a tradition for the series going forward, Rolex unveiled the first Yacht-Master with a bi-material construction in 1999. The Ref. 16622 boasted a 40mm case that combines stainless steel (for the case middle, caseback, and Oyster bracelet) and 950 platinum (for the relief-engraved bezel and the dial) in a somewhat monochromatic hybrid that the company refers to as “Rolesium.” Another bi-metal Yacht-Master iteration, one more striking in the tonal contrasts of its materials, arrived in 2005, the first “Rolesor” model, with Oystersteel and yellow gold used for the case and bracelet. That watch, Ref. 16623, was available in a variety of dial colors, including champagne, blue, and brown, and even a mother-of-pearl version.

Rolex Yacht-Master Ref.  16623 "Rolesium"

2007: Regatta Revolution: The First Yacht-Master II

In 2007, Rolex introduced the next generation of the Yacht-Master, and it was not only a significant departure from its predecessor; it was also, in a way, a return to the “Cosmograph” functionality of the 1960s prototypes. In actuality, the Yacht-Master II, first issued in a 44mm case in yellow gold (Ref. 116688) or white gold (Ref. 116689), is more appropriately described as a separate family of watches than as a branch of the main Yacht-Master series. For one thing, the movement that debuted inside the watch, Caliber 4160, was entirely new. Technically speaking, it’s a descendant of the Caliber 4130 found in Daytona models, and Rolex’s first in-house caliber to incorporate a built-in regatta countdown feature. For another, place a Yacht-Master II next to a “regular” Yacht-Master and they look, really, nothing alike. The bidirectional bezel of the Yacht-Master II is emblazoned not with the diving-inspired 60-minute scale of its smaller sibling but a countdown scale, with Arabic numerals starting with “10” and concluding at “0” spanning a semicircular arc from approximately the 8 o’clock to the 4 o’clock positions. A similar descending 10-to-0 scale is featured on the dial, positioned inside the border of the small rectangular hour markers and above the running seconds subdial at 6 o’clock. The bezel insert, made of Cerachrom, Rolex’s patented ceramic alloy, is also much more Submariner-like than Yacht-Master-like.

The first Rolex Yacht-Master II, circa 2007

The chronometer-certified movement offered not only a column-wheel driven chronograph function but an exclusive regatta countdown device, developed in-house by Rolex, that can be pre-set for intervals up to 10 minutes and whose mechanical “memory” allows it to be re-set to a previously used countdown duration. Once the watch’s countdown function is engaged, it can even be adjusted on the fly to synchronize with the precise, “official” countdown that initiates the crucial starting sequence of every regatta. While it was undeniably luxurious in its trappings — available in several precious metal options, as well as, eventually, in steel — the message delivered by the Yacht-Master II was clear: this was a watch for actual boat skippers, not just plutocrat boat owners.

Despite the niche appeal of the Yacht-Master II’s sailing-specific complication — or, perhaps because this appeal never became more widespread among Rolex fans in general — the Yacht-Master II was discontinued in 2024. Its most recent upgrades were fairly subtle: as of the all-steel Ref. 11680 introduced in 2013, the movement inside shifted to Caliber 4161, which (according to Rolex) improved upon the 4160’s reliability and the user-friendliness of its pushers.

2015: Everose Meets Oysterflex

Even before the decision to retire the Yacht-Master II from the lineup, throughout  the past decade it has been the original, core Yacht-Master model, the one without the regatta timer, that has received the most attention from the brand, with more firsts for the model arriving in 2015. The Ref. 116655, launched at that year’s Baselworld watch fair, was the first Yacht-Master with a case made from Rolex’s proprietary rose-gold alloy called Everose gold, and the first to contain a movement meeting Rolex’s “Superlative Chronometer” standard that was rolled out the same year. Its bezel was executed in black Cerachrom, albeit with the same relief-style scale as its metal predecessors rather than the etched scale of the Submariner. What many remember best is that it was also the first watch to be mounted on Rolex’s innovative Oysterflex bracelet — which on its exterior resembles a fairly traditional black rubber strap but on its interior is equipped with a patented “longitudinal cushion” system, made up of nickel-titanium blades inside an elastomer coating. The patented design gives an Oysterflex the suppleness and comfort of a strap while still providing the robustness and stability of a bracelet, and this style of wristlet has been a mainstay within Rolex’s “Professional” series of watches ever since, though still most closely associated with the Yacht-Master. Somewhat more quietly in that same year of big Yacht-Master moves, Rolex discontinued the 35mm Midsize and 29mm Ladies models, replacing them with a new series of arguably more “unisex” 37mm Yacht-Masters; today, this represents the smallest option within the collection.

2019: A Bigger Boat with a Better Engine: Introducing the Yacht-Master 42

The core Yacht-Master collection welcomed a new size and a new movement in 2019. For the first time since the debut of the 40mm original, the case size was increased, to 42mm, in the white-gold-cased Ref. 226659. It was, somewhat surprisingly for a watch that had undergone so many luxurious iterations in its history, the first time that particular precious metal had been employed for a Yacht-Master case. The watch’s Cerachrom bezel insert was in matte-black, to match the dial, and featured the same relief-raised scale and numerals as its 40mm siblings. The Yacht-Master 42 also marked the first use of the “Superlative Chronometer” Caliber 3235 in the Yacht-Master family.

Rolex Caliber 3235

In production since 2015, Caliber 3235 is one of Rolex’s most optimized in-house calibers and has been gradually replacing the venerable 3135 in many of the brand’s three-hand-date models, from the basic Datejust to the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, and Yacht-Master. The movement’s host of talking points includes the patented “Chronergy” escapement, made of magnetism-resistant nickel phosphorus that renders the movement both highly energy efficient and extremely durable; the Rolex-exclusive blued Parachrom hairspring that gives the oscillator a greater level of resistance to magnetism and shocks; and the lengthy 72-hour power reserve and industry-leading “Superlative Chronometer” accuracy to +/- 2 seconds per day. 

2023: Sailing to the Future in Titanium

Rolex is famously of the “slow and steady wins the race” philosophy when it comes to adopting new materials and buying into industry trends in general. The brand waited until 2022 to make its first watch case in titanium (specifically grade 5 titanium, which Rolex — of course — calls by its own in-house moniker of RLX Titanium) — and that watch, the 50mm, 36,000-meter water resistant Deepsea Challenge, was anything but an everyday timepiece. One year later, it was a Yacht-Master, in the recently established 42mm case size, that ushered RLX titanium into more wearable territory. RLX titanium is a strong, corrosion-resistant and very lightweight alloy, with a technical satin finish lending it a sleek, subtly grainy texture. The watch’s case is milled from a single block of the material and is enhanced with shiny polished facets that help to frame and elegantly define its broader satin-finished surfaces. The black dial — Rolex calls it “intense black” and who am I to disagree? — has its own grained texture, and the titanium bracelet is fitted with ceramic inserts and equipped with the brand’s Easylink extension system for maximum wearing comfort. Inside beats the reliable and increasingly ubiquitous Rolex Superlative Chronometer Caliber 3235.

In a way, the latest model finally brings the Yacht-Master from its “luxury Submariner” origins to what many feel is its proper tool-watch identity. It will be intriguing to see if future versions of the Yacht-Master — now that the original model stands alone, without its chronograph-countdown sibling, as the Rolex watch for sailors and other seaborne sojourners — venture more into the placid waves of dress-watch elegance or the churning whitewater of regatta-race utility. Knowing Rolex, it’s likely to be the most crowd-pleasing combination of both. 

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.css-1c7en8u{font-size:clamp(1.375rem, 1.25rem + 0.3125vw, 3.125rem);line-height:1.1;margin-bottom:1rem;} Yacht-Master 40 .css-1g7r01k{font-weight:300;font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.9375rem + 0.1563vw, 1.25rem);line-height:1.2;text-wrap:balance;}.css-1g7r01k span{display:block;} Oyster, 40 mm, Everose gold Reference 126655

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Staying on course

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 40 in 18 kt Everose gold with an Oysterflex bracelet.

Diamond-paved dial, optimal brilliance.

Diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds – the noblest and most precious stones are selected to grace Rolex timepieces. The brand has in-house expertise and equipment enabling it to bejewel any model in its catalogue.

Experienced gemmologists first select gemstones of the highest quality. For this, they can rely on their own seasoned judgement as well as state-of-the-art analysis equipment. The stones are then entrusted to the gem-setters, who skilfully place each precious stone onto the watch by hand, one by one, assuring precision to within hundredths of a millimetre. Such stringent tolerances guarantee that each stone shines with optimal brilliance and is perfectly aligned with those around it. These time-honoured gestures, which may be repeated many hundreds of times, ensure that each gem-set watch produced by Rolex sparkles with exceptional intensity and reflects the standard of excellence required by the brand.

Bidirectional Rotatable Bezel

Timing the distance.

The Yacht-Master’s bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel is made entirely from precious metals or fitted with a Cerachrom insert in high-tech ceramic. The raised polished numerals and graduations stand out clearly against a matt, sand-blasted background.

This functional bezel – which allows the wearer to calculate, for example, the sailing time between two buoys – is also a key component in the model’s distinctive visual identity.

The Oysterflex Bracelet

Highly resistant and durable.

The Yacht-Master’s new Oysterflex bracelet, developed by Rolex and patented, offers a sporty alternative to metal bracelets. The bracelet attaches to the watch case and the Oysterlock safety clasp by a flexible titanium and nickel alloy metal blade.

The blade is overmoulded with high-performance black elastomer which is particularly resistant to environmental effects, very durable and perfectly inert for the wearer of the watch. For enhanced comfort, the inside of the Oysterflex bracelet is equipped with a patented longitudinal cushion system that stabilizes the watch on the wrist and fitted with an 18 kt Everose gold Oysterlock safety clasp. It also features the Rolex Glidelock extension system, designed by the brand and patented. This inventive toothed mechanism, integrated beneath the clasp, allows fine adjustment of the bracelet length by some 15 mm in increments of approximately 2.5 mm, without the use of tools.

18 kt Everose gold

An exclusive patent

To preserve the beauty of its pink gold watches, Rolex created and patented an exclusive 18 kt pink gold alloy cast in its own foundry: Everose gold.

Introduced in 2005, 18 kt Everose is used on all Rolex Oyster models in pink gold.

More Yacht-Master technical details

Reference   126655

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Oyster, 40 mm, Everose gold

Oyster architecture

Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

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

Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date

Water resistance

Waterproof to 100 metres / 330 feet

Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding

3235, Manufacture Rolex

-2/+2 sec/day, after casing

Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting

Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers

Bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor

Power reserve

Approximately 70 hours

Flexible metal blades overmoulded with high-performance elastomer

Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system

Diamond-paved

Highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence

Certification

Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing)

Learn how to set the time and other functions of your Rolex watch by consulting our user guides.

Yacht-Master 40

Contact an Official Rolex Jeweler

Only official Rolex jewelers are allowed to sell and maintain a Rolex watch. With the necessary skills, technical know-how and special equipment, they guarantee the authenticity of each and every part of your Rolex and help you make the choice that will last a lifetime.

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