When it comes to luxury watches, Rolex always stands at the top. Among its wide range of models, the Rolex Yacht-Master II is a true masterpiece. This watch is not only beautiful but also highly functional, designed with features that make it perfect for sailing professionals and enthusiasts. Even if you are not into sailing, the Yacht-Master II has a design and presence that make it a favorite among collectors and watch lovers.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know before buying a Rolex Yacht-Master II—from its history and design to its features, variations, pricing, and whether it is worth the investment.
A Brief History of the Rolex Yacht-Master II
The Rolex Yacht-Master II was first introduced in 2007, making it one of the newer additions to the Rolex family. While Rolex is famous for its long history of classic designs, the Yacht-Master II was created to meet the needs of sailors and yacht racing professionals.
Its most unique feature is the programmable countdown timer with mechanical memory, something no other Rolex watch had before. This innovation quickly set the Yacht-Master II apart from other models.
The original Yacht-Master was released in 1992 and was designed as a luxury sports watch inspired by sailing. However, Rolex wanted to go one step further and create a watch that was not just inspired by the sailing lifestyle but also highly functional for yacht racing.
This is how the Yacht-Master II came to life. Today, it is considered a symbol of precision, innovation, and luxury.
The Design of the Rolex Yacht-Master II
The Yacht-Master II has a bold and eye-catching design. With a case size of 44mm, it is larger than many other Rolex models, giving it a strong wrist presence. This makes it a perfect choice for those who like watches that stand out. The large size also makes it easy to read the dial during sailing competitions.
One of the key design elements of the Yacht-Master II is the “Ring Command Bezel.” This bezel is not just decorative—it is directly connected to the movement inside the watch, allowing the user to control the countdown timer. This integration of bezel and movement is an impressive engineering achievement and one of the main reasons the Yacht-Master II is unique.
The dial of the watch is also designed for clarity and precision. Large hour markers, luminous hands, and the clear countdown timer all make the watch easy to read, even in low-light conditions.
The Yacht-Master II comes in different material options, including stainless steel, yellow gold, white gold, and a combination of steel and Everose gold. Each version has its own appeal, but all maintain the high standards of Rolex design and quality.
Key Features of the Rolex Yacht-Master II
The Yacht-Master II is not just about looks—it is packed with features that make it one of the most advanced Rolex watches.
Here are the key features that make it special:
1. Programmable Countdown Timer
The most important feature of the Yacht-Master II is its countdown timer, specially made for yacht racing. Sailors often need to time the crucial minutes before the start of a race, and this watch allows them to set and synchronize their countdown easily.
The timer can be programmed for up to 10 minutes and has a mechanical memory, which means it can return to the last set time at the push of a button.
2. Ring Command Bezel
The bezel is directly linked to the movement and is used to control the countdown function. By turning the bezel, the wearer can program the timer. This integration between bezel and movement is something unique to Rolex and makes the Yacht-Master II stand out in the world of watches.
3. Caliber 4161 Movement
The Yacht-Master II runs on the Rolex Caliber 4161, an in-house automatic movement made up of over 360 parts. It is based on the famous Caliber 4130 used in the Daytona but includes additional features to power the countdown timer. This movement is highly reliable, accurate, and built to last for generations.
4. Oyster Case and Waterproofness
Like all Rolex sports watches, the Yacht-Master II features the famous Oyster case, which is waterproof up to 100 meters (330 feet). This makes it suitable not only for sailing but also for swimming and other water-related activities.
5. Oyster Bracelet
The watch comes with the classic Rolex Oyster bracelet, known for its strength and comfort. The bracelet includes the Easylink extension system, allowing the wearer to adjust the length of the bracelet by about 5mm for extra comfort.
Variations of the Rolex Yacht-Master II
The Yacht-Master II is available in several versions, each offering a different combination of materials and styles. Let’s take a look at the main options:
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Stainless Steel (Oystersteel)
This is the most affordable version of the Yacht-Master II and is made entirely of Rolex’s proprietary stainless steel, known as Oystersteel. It has a blue Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert and a crisp white dial, making it sporty yet elegant.
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Yellow Gold
The yellow gold version is for those who want maximum luxury. Made entirely of 18k yellow gold, it has a powerful presence on the wrist. The gold shines beautifully and makes the watch look extremely luxurious.
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White Gold with Platinum Bezel
This version is crafted from 18k white gold and features a platinum bezel. It has a more understated look compared to yellow gold but still feels highly luxurious.
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Rolesor (Two-Tone: Steel and Everose Gold)
The two-tone version combines stainless steel and Rolex’s proprietary Everose gold. It offers a balance between luxury and durability, making it a popular choice among buyers who want something versatile.
Who is the Rolex Yacht-Master II For?
The Yacht-Master II was originally designed for professional sailors and yacht racers, but over the years, it has found fans among a much wider audience. Today, many people buy the Yacht-Master II simply for its bold design, unique features, and luxury appeal. It is especially popular among those who prefer larger watches with strong wrist presence.
This watch is perfect for:
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Sailing professionals who need a reliable race timer.
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Luxury watch collectors looking for something unique.
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People who prefer bold, statement-making watches.
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Anyone who appreciates Rolex’s combination of innovation and tradition.
Rolex Yacht-Master II vs. Rolex Yacht-Master
Some people confuse the Yacht-Master II with the original Yacht-Master, but they are very different watches. The original Yacht-Master, introduced in 1992, is more of a luxury sports watch without specialized sailing features. It comes in various sizes (37mm, 40mm, and 42mm) and is known for its stylish look and comfortable wear.
The Yacht-Master II, on the other hand, is larger at 44mm and has the unique programmable countdown timer, making it a functional tool for yacht racing. In short, the Yacht-Master is about style and elegance, while the Yacht-Master II is about functionality and bold design.
How Much Does the Rolex Yacht-Master II Cost?
The price of the Rolex Yacht-Master II depends on the material and condition of the watch. As of today:
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Stainless Steel version starts around $18,000 to $20,000 (retail).
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Two-Tone Steel and Everose Gold version costs around $25,000 to $28,000.
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Yellow Gold version is priced around $45,000 to $48,000.
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White Gold with Platinum Bezel can go even higher depending on market demand.
In the pre-owned market, prices vary depending on condition, age, and rarity. Some older models or discontinued versions may even sell for more due to collector interest.
Is the Rolex Yacht-Master II a Good Investment?
When it comes to Rolex, most models hold their value well, and some even increase in value over time. The Yacht-Master II is not as universally popular as the Submariner or Daytona, but it still enjoys strong demand among collectors. Its unique complication, large size, and limited variations make it a model that is likely to remain desirable in the future.
If you are buying the watch purely as an investment, the stainless steel version might be the safest option, as steel Rolex watches tend to hold value best. However, if you are buying for personal enjoyment, all versions of the Yacht-Master II offer exceptional quality and timeless appeal.
Tips for Buying a Rolex Yacht-Master II
1. Buy from Authorized Dealers or Trusted Sellers – Rolex watches are often counterfeited, so it’s important to buy from reliable sources.
Trusted sellers like LD Time specialize in authentic luxury watches and can give you peace of mind by ensuring that the Rolex you purchase is genuine and backed with the right documentation.
2. Know the Retail vs. Market Price – Sometimes, Rolex watches sell above retail in the secondary market due to high demand. Check current market trends before making a purchase.
3. Consider Your Lifestyle – The Yacht-Master II is a large watch. Make sure you are comfortable with its 44mm size before buying.
4. Think About Long-Term Value – If resale value matters to you, stainless steel models are generally safer investments.
5. Check Warranty and Papers – A full set with box and papers adds value to your watch and makes it easier to resell in the future.
Final Thoughts
The Rolex Yacht-Master II is a bold, innovative, and functional luxury watch that combines sailing technology with timeless Rolex design. Whether you choose it for its unique countdown timer or its striking look, it remains a standout piece in the Rolex collection.
If you’re planning to add the Yacht-Master II to your collection, LD Time can help you find the right model, guide you through the buying process, and ensure you get a genuine timepiece you can trust.