Rolex Yacht-Master II Explained: A Complete Guide to Every Variant

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is one of the most distinctive watches in the brand’s professional collection. Unlike a traditional luxury chronograph, it was developed specifically around the needs of yacht racing. Its most notable feature is the programmable countdown function, which helps sailors time the crucial moments before a regatta begins.

Since its introduction, the Yacht-Master II has gone through several versions, materials, movement updates, and design changes. The original generation was available in Oystersteel, Everose Rolesor, yellow gold, and white gold with a platinum bezel. After the original collection was discontinued in 2024, Rolex introduced a redesigned Yacht-Master II generation in 2026 with new references, a revised countdown display, and the new Calibre 4162.

For buyers and collectors, understanding these differences is important because the reference number, material, movement, and production period can significantly change the character of each watch.

What Is the Rolex Yacht-Master II?

The Yacht-Master II is a professional regatta chronograph designed around yacht-racing countdowns. Its purpose goes beyond simply displaying the time. The watch allows the wearer to set a countdown that can be used during the starting sequence of a sailing race.

The original Yacht-Master II combined a programmable countdown with a Ring Command bezel. The bezel and pushers worked together to control the countdown mechanism, making the watch mechanically different from many other Rolex sports models.

The 2026 generation keeps the regatta-focused concept but significantly changes how the function is displayed and operated. The countdown scale is now placed on the flange, while the countdown is programmed and controlled through the side pushers.

A Quick Look at Yacht-Master II Variants

The four original references were produced across different periods, while the 2026 collection introduced two new references. The first-generation references should therefore be considered separately from the redesigned models.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Ref. 116688

The Ref. 116688 is the full 18 ct yellow-gold version of the original Yacht-Master II. It was introduced with the first generation and remained part of the collection until 2024.

Its combination of yellow gold, a white dial, and a blue bezel gives it a particularly bold appearance. The watch measures 44mm, making it one of the larger watches in Rolex’s professional lineup.

The Ref. 116688 was initially powered by Calibre 4160 and was later updated to Calibre 4161. The movement provides the programmable regatta countdown that defines the Yacht-Master II.

For collectors, production period matters because earlier and later examples can have differences in hands and dial details.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Ref. 116689

The Ref. 116689 represents the white-gold version of the first-generation Yacht-Master II. It combines an 18 ct white-gold case with a platinum bezel, creating a more understated appearance than the yellow-gold model.

Like other early Yacht-Master II references, it was originally equipped with Calibre 4160 before later examples received Calibre 4161.

This reference was discontinued earlier than the other first-generation versions, in 2022. That shorter production period makes it an important reference when examining the history of the Yacht-Master II.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Ref. 116681

The Ref. 116681 brought a two-tone look to the collection by combining Oystersteel with Everose gold. It was introduced in 2011 and remained in production until 2024.

The use of Everose gold gives the watch a warmer appearance compared with the all-steel Ref. 116680, while the blue bezel continues the nautical theme associated with the Yacht-Master II.

The Ref. 116681 originally used Calibre 4160 and was later updated to Calibre 4161. As with the other first-generation models, later watches also received the revised dial and hand design introduced during the model’s production run.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Ref. 116680

The Ref. 116680 is the all-Oystersteel version of the original Yacht-Master II. It arrived in 2013 and became an important addition because it offered the complicated regatta-focused design in Rolex’s professional steel format.

This reference uses a blue Cerachrom bezel and Calibre 4161. The combination of Oystersteel, a white dial, and blue accents gives it a sportier appearance than the precious-metal versions.

The Ref. 116680 was produced until 2024. Because it was the steel model of the first generation, it is often encountered by buyers looking for a Yacht-Master II without the additional precious-metal construction of the other variants.

The 2017 Yacht-Master II Design Update

One important detail for anyone comparing first-generation Yacht-Master II watches is the 2017 design update.

Rolex revised the dial and hands without introducing new reference numbers. Earlier watches feature a different hand and hour-marker design, while later examples received Mercedes-style hands and revised markers.

This means two Yacht-Master II watches carrying the same reference number can have noticeable visual differences depending on their production period.

When purchasing a pre-owned example, it is therefore useful to examine the actual dial and hands rather than relying only on the reference number.

The Yacht-Master II and Calibre 4161

Calibre 4161 became the defining movement of the later first-generation Yacht-Master II. It was developed around the requirements of the regatta countdown and is related technically to Rolex’s chronograph movement architecture.

The key feature is its programmable countdown function. Instead of functioning like a conventional stopwatch, the system allows the wearer to set a countdown for the starting sequence of a yacht race.

The movement also offers a flyback-style reset function, allowing the countdown to be reset and synchronized when necessary.

The 2026 Rolex Yacht-Master II Ref. 126680

Rolex brought the Yacht-Master II back in 2026 with a significantly redesigned generation. The Ref. 126680 is the new Oystersteel version. Although it retains the 44mm case size and the regatta-focused purpose of the original, the design and countdown system have been reworked.

The new model uses Calibre 4162, an evolution of the previous Calibre 4161. The movement incorporates Rolex’s newer technical developments, including the Chronergy escapement.

One of the biggest changes is the countdown display. Instead of relying on the original Ring Command bezel arrangement, the new system places the countdown scale on the flange. The countdown is programmed and operated through the side pushers.

This makes the new Yacht-Master II visually and mechanically different from the discontinued 116680.

The 2026 Rolex Yacht-Master II Ref. 126688

The Ref. 126688 is the new-generation 18 ct yellow-gold Yacht-Master II introduced in 2026.

It shares the redesigned countdown architecture and Calibre 4162 with the Oystersteel version, but its full yellow-gold construction gives it a different presence.

The watch remains 44mm and continues to focus on the specialized timing requirements of competitive sailing. Its yellow-gold case, white dial, and blue details maintain the distinctive nautical identity associated with the Yacht-Master II.

For collectors, the Ref. 126688 is particularly important because it represents the return of the full-gold Yacht-Master II after the original Ref. 116688 was discontinued.

First Generation vs. Second Generation Yacht-Master II

The difference between the original and 2026 generations goes beyond a new reference number.

The original generation is particularly relevant to the pre-owned market because those references are no longer produced. The 2026 models represent a new chapter for the collection with a redesigned movement and operating system.

What Makes the Yacht-Master II Different From the Yacht-Master?

The names are similar, but the watches serve different purposes. The Yacht-Master is primarily a nautical-themed luxury sports watch designed for everyday wear. The Yacht-Master II, on the other hand, was engineered around the specialized requirements of yacht-racing starts.

The most important distinction is the countdown mechanism. The Yacht-Master II has a dedicated programmable regatta countdown, while the standard Yacht-Master does not have this specialized function.

The Yacht-Master II is also larger, with its 44mm case giving it a more substantial wrist presence.

Important Features to Consider When Buying a Yacht-Master II

1. Reference number: Check whether the watch is an original-generation 116-series model or a 2026-generation 126-series model.

2. Production year: The production period can help identify changes in hands, dial design, and movement.

3. Material: Oystersteel, Everose Rolesor, yellow gold, and white gold with platinum offer significantly different appearances and ownership considerations.

4. Movement: Early models used Calibre 4160, later first-generation watches used Calibre 4161, and the 2026 generation uses Calibre 4162.

5. Dial configuration: Later first-generation watches received the 2017 design update, so compare the actual dial and hands when evaluating a pre-owned watch.

6. Condition: Examine the case, bezel, bracelet, clasp, crystal, dial, and movement performance before purchasing.

7. Box and papers: Original documentation can help establish provenance and provide useful information about the watch.

8. Service history: A documented service record can be valuable when evaluating an older or pre-owned Yacht-Master II.

Is the Yacht-Master II a Good Choice for Collectors?

The Yacht-Master II occupies a distinctive position within Rolex because of its specialized regatta function. Its large 44mm case, programmable countdown, blue bezel details, and unusual operating system separate it from more conventional Rolex sports watches.

The first-generation references are also interesting from a historical perspective because the collection went through multiple material configurations before being discontinued in 2024.

The arrival of the 2026 generation adds another layer to the model’s history. With the introduction of Calibre 4162 and a redesigned countdown system, Rolex has significantly changed the technical execution while retaining the core purpose of the watch.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Yacht-Master II has evolved from a highly specialized regatta chronograph into a redesigned modern professional watch. From the original Ref. 116688 in yellow gold to the Oystersteel Ref. 116680 and the latest Ref. 126680, each version has its own place in the model’s history.

For anyone considering a Yacht-Master II, understanding the reference, material, movement, production period, and design generation is essential. LD Time can help buyers and collectors evaluate different Rolex Yacht-Master II configurations and make an informed decision based on the specific watch they are considering.

Contact LD Time today to learn more about Rolex Yacht-Master II watches and available pre-owned models.