rolex yacht master configurator

.css-1c7en8u{font-size:clamp(1.375rem, 1.25rem + 0.3125vw, 3.125rem);line-height:1.1;margin-bottom:1rem;} Yacht-Master 37 .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, 37 mm, Oystersteel and Everose gold Reference 268621

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Staying on course

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 37 in Oystersteel and Everose gold with an Oyster bracelet.

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.

Chocolate Dial

Exceptional legibility.

Like all Rolex Professional watches, the Yacht-Master 37 offers exceptional legibility in all circumstances, and especially in the dark, thanks to its Chromalight display.

The broad hands and hour markers in simple shapes – triangles, circles, rectangles – are filled with a luminescent material emitting a long-lasting glow.

Everose Rolesor

A meeting of two metals.

Gold is coveted for its lustre and nobility. Steel reinforces strength and reliability. Together, they harmoniously combine the best of their properties.

A true Rolex signature, Rolesor has featured on Rolex models since the early 1930s, and was trademarked as a name in 1933. It is one of the prominent pillars of the Oyster collection.

The Oyster bracelet

Alchemy of form and function.

The Oyster bracelet is a perfect alchemy of form and function, aesthetics and technology, designed to be both robust and comfortable. It is equipped with an Oysterlock folding clasp, which prevents accidental opening and the Easylink comfort extension link, also exclusive to Rolex.

This ingenious system allows the wearer to increase the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm, providing additional comfort in any circumstance.

More Yacht-Master technical details

Reference   268621

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Oyster, 37 mm, Oystersteel and Everose gold

Oyster architecture

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

Everose Rolesor - combination of Oystersteel and Everose gold

Everose gold bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated with raised numerals

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

2236, 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

Syloxi hairspring in silicon with patented geometry. High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers

Bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor

Power reserve

Approximately 55 hours

Oyster, three-piece solid links

Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link

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 37

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There is big news, and there is Rolex big news, and in some ways, ne'er the twain shall meet. At Baselworld this year, Rolex debuted a first for the company: the very first, ever, Rolex delivered on a rubber strap. Now, for most companies this would have little effect on watch enthusiasts other than to evoke (very) tepid interest at best, and boredom at worst – but this is not an ordinary rubber strap, this is an official, designed-and-tested-and-thoroughly-obsessed-over-by-Rolex rubber strap. And thereby hangs a tale.

The Yachtmaster, as we have mentioned in some of our previous coverage , occupies a somewhat particular place in Rolex’s lineup of sports watches; it shares water-resistance and a turning bezel with the Submariner (the latter is water resistant to 300 m while the Yachtmaster standard model is water resistant to 100 m). It is certainly not a tool watch; the Yachtmaster is offered in either platinum and steel, or gold and steel (that’s Rolesium and Rolesor, lest we forget) and is either quietly or unequivocally luxurious depending on what size and metal you go for (Rolex makes the Yachtmaster in both 35 mm and 40 mm sizes). 

The Yachtmaster’s history goes back to the first introduction of the watch in 1992, although the name, interestingly enough, appears on the dial of a prototype Yachtmaster Chronograph from the late 1960s (a watch so legendary I am actually forced to use the word; one of three known is in the collection of Mr. John Goldberger; we covered it – and a host of other remarkable ultra-rare watches from his collection – in a very memorable episode of Talking Watches ).

The term “Yachtmaster” is also, incidentally, used for a certificate of competency in yachting which is issued by the Royal Yachting Association, although we’re unaware of any specific association between the RYA and the Yachtmaster watch.

Now, this newest version of the Yachtmaster does take a few pages from the existing Yachtmaster playbook: 100-meter water resistance, a bidirectional turning bezel, and a dial and hands that echo the Submariner. There are also a couple of features that may make vintage Sub enthusiasts wonder if Rolex mightn’t have an exceedingly subtle sense of humor; the gilt coronet and “Rolex,” and the red lettering, both features which according to HODINKEE founder Ben Clymer would have, had they appeared on a Rolex dive watch, made it instantly the single most popular watch in the modern Rolex inventory. The case is rose gold – Rolex famously makes their own, called Everose, in their own foundry, with a bit of platinum mixed in to prevent discoloration – and the bezel, rather than being some other precious metal (as is the case in the “standard” Yachtmasters) is in black Cerachrom – a very technical-looking matte black that contrasts sharply with the gold case. Somehow, between the rose gold, the Cerachrom bezel, and the new Oysterflex bracelet this manages to be the most luxurious and at the same time most technical Yachtmaster yet (leaving aside the Yachtmaster II, which we recently reviewed right here , but that is a watch that marches to the beat of a different drummer entirely).

The two different versions of the Everose Yachtmaster (40 mm and 37 mm) sport different movements; the larger uses the caliber 3135 and the smaller, the newer 2236, which sports the “Syloxi” silicon balance spring (first used by Rolex in 2014).

The Oysterflex bracelet is, in a nutshell, quite a piece of work. One of the most endearing traits of Rolex as a company is that it tends to demonstrate what we can only describe as a laudable degree of corporate obsessive-compulsive disorder when it comes to research and development, and it does so, often, without making any sort of fanfare about it at all. In this case we do know a little bit about the Oysterflex, however – it is basically designed to have the hypoallergenic and comfort properties of a rubber strap and the durability and shape-retention properties of a bracelet. 

At the core of the Oysterflex bracelet are metal inserts made of titanium and nickel, which are used to affix the bracelet to the clasp and watch case; over those is a sheathing of “high-performance black elastomer.” “Elastomer” is a portmanteau word, formed from “elastic” and “polymer” and is a general term for natural and synthetic rubbers. In addition to the materials complexity of the Oysterflex bracelet, it is also shaped in a rather unusual fashion – there are ridges molded into the the wristward face of the bracelet, which are intended to allow the bracelet when worn to better approximate the natural curvature of the wrist.

They might look a bit odd but in practice, the design works out quite wonderfully; this is easily the most downright comfortable and organic-feeling rubber strap I have ever worn, and like the entire watch manages to be both extremely technical in feel, and very luxurious at the same time; I doubt whether any company has ever taken so much trouble over the design of a strap (for all that Rolex prefers the term “bracelet” in describing the Oysterflex, habit dies hard and you’ll probably find yourself calling it a strap, just as we did). On the wrist, the two stabilizing ridges do exactly what they are supposed to: keep the watch from shifting, as heavier watches on rubber straps are wont to do, without requiring you to have the strap uncomfortably tight. The Everose Oysterlock clasp does a superb job mechanically and also looks fabulous into the bargain; the quality of finish on the clasp and case may not seem terribly elaborate at first, but it is as technically flawless as anything I have ever seen at any price, on any watch.

What we have here, in other words, is a very Rolex interpretation of luxury. Yes, this is a gold watch, and a gold Rolex, and wearing a gold Rolex always carries with it, shall we say, certain semiotic complexities. However there is also another side to the watch, and to the Rolex approach to luxury in general: the taking of such pains to produce technical perfection that technical perfection becomes a luxury in itself.

The Everose Rolex Yachtmaster, in Rolex Everose, with Everose Oysterclasp and Oysterflex bracelet, as shown, $22,000 in 37 mm, and $24,950 in 40 mm. For more info, check out Rolex.com.

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• Rolex watches
• Yacht-Master

Rolex Yacht-Master Marine character

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master embodies the privileged ties between Rolex and the world of sailing that stretch back to the 1950s. Specially designed to meet the needs of sailors, it is a technical, elegant and sporty watch that is above all a useful and reliable nautical instrument.

An immediately recognizable bezel

The Yacht-Master is easily recognizable for its bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel made entirely from precious metal (Everose gold or platinum) or fitted with a black Cerachrom insert in high-technology ceramic. The raised polished graduations and numerals stand out clearly against a matte background. This characteristic and functional bezel – which enables the wearer to read time intervals, for example, the sailing time between two buoys – plays a full part in creating the unique visual identity of the watch.

Exclusive materials

Robust, accurate and perfectly waterproof, the Yacht-Master is one of the only Rolex Professional watches offered in several diameters (37, 40 and 42 mm).

The Yacht-Master 37 and Yacht-Master 40 are available in a Rolesium version (combining Oystersteel and platinum, exclusive to the Yacht-Master range) and in an Everose Rolesor version (combining Oystersteel and Everose gold) with a bezel in precious metal and fitted with an Oyster bracelet. Both models are also offered in 18 kt Everose gold featuring a Cerachrom bezel insert in black ceramic and an Oysterflex bracelet.

The Yacht-Master 42 is available in 18 kt yellow or white gold with an Oysterflex bracelet and in RLX titanium – a particularly lightweight alloy with excellent corrosion-resistance properties and high mechanical strength – with an Oyster bracelet. This version, unveiled in 2023, stands out for its technical satin finish, a finish with a visible grain.

Perpetual calibers 2236 and 3235

Yacht-Master models are equipped with caliber 2236 (Yacht-Master 37) or caliber 3235 (Yacht-Master 40 and Yacht-Master 42), self-winding mechanical movements entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. They offer outstanding performance, particularly in terms of precision, power reserve, convenience and reliability. Both movements' power reserve extends to approximately 70 hours.

Superlative Chronometer certification

Like all Rolex timepieces, the Yacht-Master is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification. This designation testifies that every watch leaving the brand’s workshops has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories, according to its own criteria. The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolized by a green seal and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.

Rolex Yacht-Master A selection of models

Yacht-Master 40

Oyster, 40 mm, Oystersteel and Everose gold

Oyster, 40 mm, Oystersteel and platinum

Oyster, 40 mm, Everose gold

Yacht-Master 42

Oyster, 42 mm, RLX titanium

Oyster, 42 mm, yellow gold

Oyster, 42 mm, white gold

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The Craftsmanship Behind the Rolex Yacht Master: A Look at its Unique Features.

We can't help but gush over the Rolex Yacht Master, a true symbol of sophistication and elegance in the world of luxury timepieces. As avid fans of Rolex watches, we've always admired the exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into every piece, especially the Rolex Yacht Master. In this article, we will explore the unique features that set this iconic nautical watch apart from the rest. So, let's dive in and discover what makes the Rolex Yacht Master truly special!

The Oyster Case

Rolex is famous for its groundbreaking Oyster case, which made history as the first waterproof watch case back in 1926 . The Yacht Master proudly carries on this legacy, featuring a robust Oyster case designed to withstand the elements and protect the precious movement inside. Its screw-down case back and winding crown ensure water resistance up to 100 meters (330 feet), making it the perfect companion for any sea-loving adventurer.

The Triplock Winding Crown

Speaking of winding crowns, the Rolex Yacht Master also boasts the innovative Triplock system. This ingenious mechanism uses three sealed zones to lock the crown securely, providing an extra layer of protection against water and dust. We can't help but marvel at this little engineering feat that ensures our beloved Yacht Master stays reliable and accurate, even when we accidentally splash it with champagne during a celebratory yacht party (oops!).

The 904L Stainless Steel and Rolesium

When it comes to materials, Rolex never disappoints. The Yacht Master is crafted from 904L stainless steel, an alloy known for its excellent corrosion resistance and durability. But wait, there's more! Some models also feature Rolesium, a patented combination of 904L stainless steel and 950 platinum. This unique blend not only adds a touch of luxury to the watch but also enhances its resistance to wear and tear. Talk about an upgrade that's both functional and fabulous!

The Cerachrom Bezel

One glance at the Rolex Yacht Master, and you'll immediately notice its eye-catching Cerachrom bezel. This high-tech ceramic material is not only scratch-resistant but also impervious to fading, ensuring that your Yacht Master looks as good as new for years to come. Plus, the raised numerals and graduations on the bezel are coated with platinum or gold, adding an extra touch of elegance to this already stunning timepiece.

The Oysterflex Bracelet

While the Rolex Yacht Master is undeniably luxurious, it doesn't forget about comfort. The innovative Oysterflex bracelet, made from a flexible metal core wrapped in high-performance elastomer, offers the durability of a metal bracelet with the comfort of a rubber strap. Its patented cushion system ensures a snug fit, making it perfect for long days spent lounging on the deck or racing across the waves.

The Power Behind the Rolex Yacht Master

As avid fans of Rolex watches, we're always eager to learn more about what makes these luxury timepieces tick. In particular, the Rolex Yacht Master has captured our hearts with its exquisite design and exceptional craftsmanship. But have you ever wondered what's going on beneath that beautiful exterior? We're talking about the caliber movements – the heart and soul of every Rolex watch. Let’sl take a closer look at the different caliber movements that power the Rolex Yacht Master watches.

The Caliber 3135 Movement

First up is the legendary Caliber 3135 movement, which has been powering Rolex watches for over three decades. This self-winding mechanical movement is known for its reliability, precision, and durability, making it a perfect match for the Yacht Master. With its 31 jewels and approximately 48-hour power reserve, the Caliber 3135 ensures that your Yacht Master stays accurate and ready for action, whether you're setting sail on an ocean adventure or attending a fancy soiree.

The Caliber 2236 Movement

Next, let's take a look at the Caliber 2236 movement, which can be found in some of the newer Yacht Master models. This self-winding mechanical movement boasts Rolex's innovative Syloxi hairspring, made of silicon, which offers superior resistance to temperature variations, magnetic fields, and shocks. With its 31 jewels and an impressive 55-hour power reserve, the Caliber 2236 enhances the Yacht Master's performance and accuracy, ensuring that your watch stays as reliable as ever, even in the most challenging conditions.

The Caliber 3235 Movement

Last but certainly not least, we have the Caliber 3235 movement, Rolex's latest and greatest creation. This self-winding mechanical movement features a whopping 70-hour power reserve and is certified as a Swiss chronometer, ensuring top-notch precision and reliability. The Caliber 3235 also incorporates Rolex's cutting-edge Chronergy escapement and Parachrom hairspring, which together significantly improve the watch's efficiency and resistance to magnetic fields and temperature variations. With the Caliber 3235 at its core, the Yacht Master is truly a force to be reckoned with.

The various caliber movements found in the Rolex Yacht Master watches showcase the brand's dedication to pushing the boundaries of horological innovation. These sophisticated mechanisms are the driving force behind the Yacht Master's exceptional performance and timeless appeal. So, the next time you find yourself admiring a Yacht Master on someone's wrist or dreaming of owning one yourself, remember the incredible engineering and attention to detail that goes into each and every one of these remarkable timepieces. And who knows – one day, you'll be lucky enough to wear a masterpiece powered by one of these amazing caliber movements on your own wrist!

Notable Collaborations and Special Editions

Over the years, Rolex has introduced some truly exceptional Yacht Master special editions and collaborations that have captured our hearts (and wallets). These unique timepieces not only showcase the brand's commitment to innovation but also highlight its ability to stay ahead of the curve in the world of luxury watches.

One such collaboration that comes to mind is the Rolex Yacht Master Everose Gold edition . This stunning watch features a beautiful combination of 18k Everose gold and the revolutionary Oysterflex bracelet, creating a perfect blend of luxury and sportiness that we can't help but admire. The warm, rosy hue of the Everose gold perfectly complements the black Cerachrom bezel and dial, making this Yacht Master a true statement piece.

Another noteworthy special edition is the Rolex Yacht Master II . This remarkable timepiece takes the Yacht Master's nautical heritage to new heights with its innovative regatta chronograph function. Designed specifically for yacht racing enthusiasts, the Yacht Master II allows skippers to program a countdown timer for precise race starts, ensuring they never miss a beat on the water. Talk about a watch that's both stylish and functional!

The Rolex Yacht Master 40 is another remarkable addition to the prestigious Yacht Master family, seamlessly combining the brand's signature elegance with cutting-edge technology and practicality. This elegant watch boasts a 40mm case size, making it suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes and preferences. Its exquisite combination of materials, such as the Rolesor (a mix of Oystersteel and gold) or the full Everose gold version, adds a touch of sophistication to the already impressive design. The Yacht Master 40 is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Last but certainly not least, let's not forget the Rolex Yacht Master 42 . This magnificent timepiece features a larger 42mm case size, catering to those who prefer a more substantial presence on their wrist. The Yacht Master 42 is available in an alluring 18k white gold version, which perfectly complements the black Cerachrom bezel and Oysterflex bracelet. This watch truly embodies the essence of luxury, making it a must-have for any discerning collector or enthusiast.

The Rolex Yacht Master's Legacy

As we've explored the craftsmanship and unique features that define the Rolex Yacht Master, it's clear why this watch has become a beloved icon in the world of luxury timepieces. Its undeniable elegance, innovative design, and nautical heritage make it the ideal companion for those who appreciate the finer things in life, both on land and at sea.

So, whether you're an avid sailor, a watch enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the art of fine watchmaking, the Rolex Yacht Master is sure to impress. Its enduring appeal and timeless style serve as a testament to Rolex's dedication to excellence, reminding us that true luxury is found in the details. And if you ever find yourself lucky enough to own a Yacht Master, remember to wear it with pride (and maybe even a little swagger) – after all, it's not every day that you get to sport a masterpiece on your wrist!

Caring for Your Rolex Yacht Master

As a proud owner or admirer of the Rolex Yacht Master, it's essential to know how to care for and maintain this exceptional timepiece. With proper care, your Yacht Master will not only continue to look stunning but also perform at its best for years to come.

• Cleaning: To keep your Yacht Master looking as good as new, gently clean it with a soft cloth and warm water. Avoid using chemicals or abrasive materials that may damage the watch's finish. For thorough cleaning, consider taking your watch to an authorized Rolex service center.
• Servicing: Like any precision instrument, your Yacht Master requires regular servicing to ensure optimal performance. Rolex recommends servicing your watch every 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and environmental factors. Always take your watch to an authorized Rolex service center for servicing and repairs.
• Magnetism: Although the Yacht Master features a Parachrom hairspring resistant to magnetic fields, it's still wise to keep your watch away from strong magnetic sources, such as electronic devices, speakers, and MRI machines. Prolonged exposure to magnetism can affect the accuracy of your watch.
• Water Resistance: While the Yacht Master is designed to be water-resistant up to 100 meters, it's crucial to ensure that the winding crown is securely screwed down before exposing it to water. After swimming in saltwater, rinse your watch with fresh water to remove any salt or sand that may have accumulated.
• Storage: When you're not wearing your treasured Yacht Master, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Consider investing in a watch box or case to protect it from dust and scratches.

By following these simple tips, you'll ensure that your Rolex Yacht Master remains a stunning and reliable timepiece for years to come. And who knows – with proper care, your Yacht Master may even become a cherished heirloom passed down through generations, continuing its legacy of elegance and craftsmanship.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Yacht Master truly is a remarkable timepiece, showcasing the brand's commitment to excellence in both design and craftsmanship. From the iconic Oyster case to the innovative Calibre 3235 movement, every detail of this watch is a testament to Rolex's passion for creating exceptional luxury timepieces. As fans and admirers of the Yacht Master, we can't help but feel a sense of awe and appreciation for the artistry and engineering that goes into each and every one of these watches. So, whether you're a proud owner, an aspiring collector, or simply someone who appreciates fine watchmaking, the Rolex Yacht Master is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Standing Out From The Crowd: Customizing Your Rolex

For some, a Rolex is a Rolex – bought as is, many of the designs in the catalog represent the end result of sometimes decades or even generations of relentless tweaking, refining and fine-tuning.  For others, the watch they buy either new from the store or an example from a pre-owned marketplace acts as merely a starting point; a blank canvas onto which they will add their own unique character. 

Personalizing your Rolex is sometimes seen as the ultimate statement, a way to separate yourself even further from an already somewhat exclusive crowd.

It can be done in a number of ways, some more extreme than others. The simple practice of swapping a metal bracelet for a leather or rubber strap has a massive effect on the overall aesthetic of a watch. At the other end of the scale, there are entities out there who will take your brand-new model and reshape it to look like a sought-after vintage grail piece.

Below, we’ll take a look at some of the options available to make your custom Rolex distinctly your own.

The Bracelet

Rolex’s range of metal bracelets is justifiably famous and has been subjected to a similar regime of constant improvements as the watches themselves over the years. Those fitted to the more contemporary range have benefitted from all solid links, making them heavier and more robust, addressing a niggling gripe many customers had about the relative flimsiness of the older examples.

The metal trio, the Oyster, Jubilee, and President, are fixed to the majority of Rolex’s offerings, with leather straps reserved mainly for the ultra dressy Cellini line and the brand only recently making their very first rubber bracelet, the Oysterflex, which you’ll find on certain versions of the Daytona and Yacht-Master.

However, there is nothing to say a Submariner, for instance, traditionally supplied with the most utilitarian of options, the Oyster bracelet, has to stay on an Oyster bracelet. The world’s favorite diver on a leather strap is immediately transformed into a far more formal-looking affair, making the versatile tool watch an even more perfect complement to a business suit.

Replacing it with a rubber or silicon strap ups the sportiness of the whole thing and gives the ubiquitous Sub a fresh aesthetic you won’t encounter too many of in the day-to-day.

And it crosses over beyond the professional range as well. The Datejust and Day-Date also take on a new life just with the simple act of substituting their metal bracelets – although with the range of options in which the pair are already available from Rolex themselves, there’s an argument for saying they are pretty much infinitely customizable anyway, straight off the shop floor.  

For an easy and inexpensive way to shake up the look of your favorite watch, check out the range of Italian leather straps we have in our store here at Bob’s, alongside some rubber watchbands from Everest, one of the top choices in third-party manufacturers.

The Dial and Bezel

Where changing the bracelet is a quick and easily reversed way to get a custom Rolex, and one that doesn’t affect the resale value of the watch if you decide to sell it on (so long as you keep the original), changing the dial or bezel most definitely will.

However, there are legions of firms out there ready and willing to give your dial a facelift, with everything from a new, unofficial color to a fully blinged-out visage swamped in diamonds and other gems.  

You will also find examples where the dials themselves are made from semiprecious stone, such as opal or onyx , and even pieces of meteorite, ensuring an absolute one-of-a-kind nature.

It is a move that certainly sets your watch apart from the mainstream, and you can take your choice of having the manufacturer send you the dial or bezel directly so you can fit it yourself (and best of luck with that!) or you can parcel your watch off to them to swap the pieces in their workshop.

There is a downside here though, and it is not just the cost of buying an iced-out dial dripping in jewels. Rolex notoriously has zero sense of humor with people messing with their products, so anything added after the fact makes your watch, in their eyes at least, a counterfeit.

As such, the brand won’t want anything to do with it should you send it in for servicing or repair, and you will have to make alternative arrangements. While that may be a pain, for most it is a small price to pay for wearing such a unique specimen on their wrist.

The Whole Hog

Have you seen those companies that take your classic E-Type Jag or Aston Martin DB5 and fit them with modern cooling systems so they don’t overheat, uprated suspension so they go around corners, and decent brakes so you don’t end your journey up a tree? They are still, technically, a vintage car, just…better.

There is a company doing a similar sort of thing for Rolex watches, just in reverse.

Tempus Machina has made it their business to reimagine some of the most lusted-after pieces in the Rolex archives, taking their modern-day equivalents and modifying them to echo the look of yesteryear.

Already in the books is their ref. 216A Submariner, a standard off-the-shelf no-date ref. 114060 which has been customized to bear an uncanny likeness to the ultra-rare ref. 6538.

It involves nothing less than stripping the watch to its constituent parts and taking power tools to them; shaving the contemporary Maxi case down to size, removing the crown guards, bevelling and drilling the lugs, fitting an original 8mm Brevet crown and a dozen other alterations.

The result is the absolute best of both worlds. A thoroughly modern watch that looks like one of the all-time greats.

More recently they have worked their magic on the GMT-Master II ref. 116710 which, after a trip down memory lane, emerges as the one that started it all, the ref. 6542, complete with Bakelite bezel.

The detailing is extraordinary, even down to the small arrow GMT hand and the re-profiled coin edging on that iconic Pepsi surround.

And the best part of all is that they are incredibly cheap. Actually sorry, no that’s not quite true. The GMT-Master rechristened the ref. 711Z, will run you about $35,000 . The Sub goes for around $25,000. Expensive, yes. But as custom Rolex watches go, they represent just about the classiest options out there.

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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.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, Oystersteel and Everose gold Reference 126621

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Staying on course

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 40 in Oystersteel and Everose gold with an Oyster bracelet.

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.

Intense black dial

Exceptional legibility.

Like all Rolex Professional watches, the Yacht-Master 40 offers exceptional legibility in all circumstances, and especially in the dark, thanks to its Chromalight display.

The broad hands and hour markers in simple shapes – triangles, circles, rectangles – are filled with a luminescent material emitting a long-lasting glow.

Everose Rolesor

A meeting of two metals.

Gold is coveted for its lustre and nobility. Steel reinforces strength and reliability. Together, they harmoniously combine the best of their properties.

A true Rolex signature, Rolesor has featured on Rolex models since the early 1930s, and was trademarked as a name in 1933. It is one of the prominent pillars of the Oyster collection.

The Oyster bracelet

Alchemy of form and function.

The Oyster bracelet is a perfect alchemy of form and function, aesthetics and technology, designed to be both robust and comfortable. It is equipped with an Oysterlock folding clasp, which prevents accidental opening and the Easylink comfort extension link, also exclusive to Rolex.

This ingenious system allows the wearer to increase the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm, providing additional comfort in any circumstance.

More Yacht-Master technical details

Reference   126621

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Oyster, 40 mm, Oystersteel and Everose gold

Oyster architecture

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

Everose Rolesor - combination of Oystersteel and Everose gold

Everose gold bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated with raised numerals

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

Oyster, three-piece solid links

Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link

Intense black

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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