The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium, Very Rolex Yet Surprisingly Disturbing
It is undoubtedly a rolex from head to toe, yet it felt very surprising on the wrist....
Launched in 1992, the Rolex Yacht-Master has undoubtedly enjoyed a long shelf life but has never attained the same cult status as a Submariner. A watch inspired by the nautical world and meant to be used as a luxury yachting watch, its vocation and looks have always been slightly confusing. It looks somewhat like a Submariner but without the diving credentials. It has sporty specifications, yet it is truly luxurious and has often appeared in precious metals. Recent versions, with the enlarged 42mm diameter and the matte black bezel, changed this perception. But clearly, it’s the new Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium that signs the independence act of the collection. We’re taking a closer look at this watch that feels extremely familiar and, at the same time, left us with contradictory thoughts. Good or not, let’s check this out.
Some context
The Yacht-Master collection was introduced at the 1992 edition of the Baselworld Fair. And believe me, this was quite an event. Rolex is known for its strategy of incremental updates and rarely presents new watches. In fact, when the YM was launched, it was one of the very few entirely new collections since the launch of the Daytona in 1963. However, despite the new name (well, not entirely, as it was first used in the late 1960s on a prototype watch based on a Daytona) and its unprecedented vocation within the Rolex portfolio, the watch felt familiar.
The modern-day version of the Yacht-Master made its first appearance with the reference 16628, an 18k yellow gold version with a white dial and black-filled hour markers. Looking at it, the resemblance with the Submariner and other aquatic models at Rolex is… obvious. Some say (nothing official here) that during the 1980s, the brand experimented with many different options to revamp its iconic Submariner. Several attempts later, something close to the Yacht-Master appeared; however, Rolex felt that redesigning the Sub was probably not the right move. Yet, the design caught people’s attention but had to be slightly updated so as not to cannibalise the all-important Submariner. The decision was made to position this design as a higher-end, luxurious nautical model.
The differences were straightforward: steel, 300m water-resistant case, black bezel, black dial and instrumental characteristics for the Submariner compared to the gold; 100m water-resistant case, bright dial, solid gold bezel, more rounded shapes and luxurious touches for the Yacht-Master. However, the visual resemblance persisted, which is probably why it took many years for the YM to become a model on its own. An important moment in the history of this watch is, to me, the introduction of the reference 116655 , an Everose model with a matte black dial, a matte ceramic bezel with raised numerals and the Oysterflex rubber bracelet. This is the moment when the YM became different… and much more attractive.
Since then, Rolex has gradually improved its nautical watch with the release of the Yacht-Master 42 – a new size, larger than a Submariner, to differentiate the collection. It would later be followed by a very appealing yellow gold edition .
The Prototype Yacht-Master 42 of Sir Ben Ainslie… In titanium
The current RLX Titanium edition of the Yacht-Master 42 doesn’t spring out of nowhere. It has existed for about three years already, but only as a prototype, on the wrist of legendary sailor Sir Ben Ainslie – winner of the 34th America’s Cup with Oracle Team USA in 2013, four-time Olympic champion, CEO and Skipper of INEOS Britannia and skipper of the Great Britain SailGP Team. This watch came to us as a surprise long after its creation in 2020. Despite appearing in the wild repeatedly, we only noticed its existence in late 2021, after it was mentioned in an interview on October 2020 in The Week . It was also mentioned in the official Rolex print magazine.
The watch in question, a prototype made exclusively for Ainslie for a very specific purpose and designed to be tested on the field, was made in RLX Titanium (back then an unprecedented material for Rolex, which would later be used on the Deepsea Challenge ) and looked like a deluxurised version of a well-known watch. Entirely matte, equipped with a black dial and black bezel and with a no-date display, it was worn on a technical NATO strap, which according to the brand, combines Cordura with high-performance elastomer and is closed by a Velcro for easy adjustments.
The existence of this watch immediately gave us some ideas, incorporated in our 2022 Rolex Predictions featuring a titanium Yacht-Master . And as we anticipated, it became a reality this year .
The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium
This year, Rolex launched its commercial version of the Yacht-Master 42 Titanium, which resulted in a slightly different watch from what we’ve seen on the wrist of Ainslie. More in line with the current white gold and yellow gold YM42 , the watch has many distinctive features. It isn’t just a titanium attire; it is a standalone model with its specificities and unique features.
First of all, let’s talk titanium at Rolex. The brand, over the years, has been using an array of metals – steel, with its own Oystersteel alloy (904L), gold in all possible colours and even proprietary alloys and platinum. Ceramic has long been used too, but only for bezel inserts. Rolex has never used ceramic or any other high-tech material for its cases. Until the recently introduced Deepsea Challenge , titanium has remained a rarity, used for the caseback of the Sea-Dweller Deepsea and for the Pelagos , which isn’t a Rolex but a Tudor, so it doesn’t really count.
Now, in less than six months, Rolex has released two watches made entirely of titanium, with an alloy named RLX – which is grade 5 titanium. One is a beast, a gigantic timepiece made to explore the deepest point of the oceans – a watch, objectively speaking, that is hardly wearable. The other one, the Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium reference 226627, is certainly one of the most comfortable models in the brand’s collection.
As said, the YM42 Titanium is more than just a new material applied to an existing watch. Of course, it shares multiple elements with its gold siblings, but some details truly set it apart. The case measures 42mm in diameter with a fairly contained 11.60mm thickness. Measuring 50.3mm from lug-to-lug, it’s not the smallest watch in the brand’s portfolio and wears slightly larger than a classic Submariner (40.5mm x 12.5mm x 47.6mm). All parts of the habillage are made of titanium, from the monobloc middle case to the crown, the rotating bezel, the caseback and the bracelet. The specifications are classic Rolex Yacht-Master, with a Triplock crown with integral guards, a screwed back, a sapphire crystal with AR coating and a Cyclops lens over the date and 100m water-resistance.
Classic features of the YM have been retained, such as the bidirectional bezel with a 60-minute Cerachrom insert. The latter sticks to the classic look of the collection, with a matte base and raised, polished numerals and markers without a lumed index. What makes the Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium so special, then? Well, first of all, the case features one very appealing detail: bevelled lugs. A nod to the past, this feature is exclusive to this titanium version and brings more dynamism to the case, as well as providing a nice historical reference – something that Rolex fanboys will surely appreciate (I do…). The second specificity of this model is its matte look. But I’ll come back to that point later.
The dial of this titanium YM42 is, however, classic. It retains most of the attributes of the white gold reference 226659, with oversized applied markers and hands in polished white gold and all tracks and printings in white. There is not a single touch of colour on this dial, which comes in a new colour named intense black, with a fine satin finish. Matte, with a velvet-like texture, this dial isn’t pure black like most of the watches in the brand’s collection but feels more like a very dark anthracite. Combined with a flat sapphire crystal with AR coating, the result is an almost complete lack of reflections. And the overall legibility, thanks to large markers and great contrast, is superb.
Inside the case is a classic Rolex movement, the calibre 3235 – used in the Submariner Date , the Datejust 41 and 36 , the Sea-Dweller or the Deepsea . A Superlative Chronometer (meaning certified by COSC and then by Rolex once the movement is encased), this automatic movement comes with all the recent innovations of Rolex: a bidirectional rotor on ball bearings, a Chronergy escapement, a paramagnetic nickel-phosphorus pallet fork and escape wheel and a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. It beats at 4Hz, stores a comfortable 70h power reserve and features an instantaneous date and a stop-seconds mechanism. Simply one of the best time-and-date engines on the market.
The bracelet of this new Yacht-Master 42 is also made of RLX Titanium. A classic 3-link Oyster style, it is also entirely matte with a so-called technical satin finish . Contrary to most Oyster bracelets, the sides are also matte, and only the Coronet on the clasp is polished. As you would expect, it is on par with Rolex quality standards, with an Oysterlock folding safety clasp and the Easylink comfort extension link to adjust the bracelet length by approximately 5mm. Also, this bracelet includes patented ceramic inserts inside the links to enhance its longevity and flexibility on the wrist.
Some thoughts… It is a disturbing watch (but a good one)
When you’ve been into watches for some years, you develop some preconceived notions about Rolex timepieces and the way they look and feel on the wrist. There’s a certain heft, a presence on the wrist, consolidating the perception of quality and solidity. There’s also a sheen that is unique to Rolex, with glossy bezels and dials. Rolex watches are so emblematic that your brain is pre-formatted to a certain conception of what they should look and feel like on the wrist. The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium changes everything and breaks the norm. And it left me with mixed feelings, but not necessarily in a bad way.
When you take a Submariner and strap it around your wrist, it feels like home… It’s reassuringly heavy yet comfortable. Even though weight might be a bit irrational, weight adds to the feeling of quality and weight robustness. Having worn Rolex sports watches on so many occasions in my personal and professional life, I expect a watch from the Crown to weigh about 150/160 grams on a bracelet. It is a construction that is so deeply embedded in my brain that the moment I strapped the YM42 Titanium, I was left with a very disturbing sensation.
Yes, the watch looks like a Rolex, but it doesn’t feel like one on the wrist. It’s about 35% lighter than steel (around 100 grams), and everything I associated with how a Rolex should feel on the wrist simply vanished. I don’t want to sound too dramatic, but believe me when I say that it was a rather special experience at first. But the beauty is that you soon forget about this first impression and enjoy a watch that is surprisingly light. Despite its size, it is extremely comfortable and balanced. A watch that you’ll forget in about 30 seconds after you strapped it on the wrist. The initial feeling of a lack of robustness is, of course, just a misinterpretation of a pre-formatted brain and has nothing to do with the actual heft of the watch.
The second surprise with this watch is how it plays with the light and its lack of reflections. As said, most sports Rolex have a certain sheen. Even a Submariner or a Deepea feature glossy, reflective parts, such as the bezel and the sides of the case and the bracelet. The Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium is the most matte watch in the brand’s collection, with only a few polished accents (numerals on the bezel, bezel rim, and crown guards). Even the bevel on the side of the lugs is satin finished. This lack of sheen is definitely something new to Rolex and, far from me to complain, makes this model one of the most discreet and instrumental in the collection. It’s monochromatic, light on the wrist, and despite a size that I would have loved to be a bit smaller, a real joy to wear. It’s not a poser’s watch. The Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium is a tribute to when Rolex watches were made for a job. Yes, I’m very positive about this new release.
Availability & Price
The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium 226627 isn’t yet available at retailers but will be soon. At least, on paper, as it won’t be easily accessible, even by Rolex standards. The brand doesn’t communicate production numbers, but we’ve heard that this will remain, for now, a rather exclusive model. It is priced at EUR 13,900 , CHF 13,400 or USD 14,050 . More details at rolex.com .
Technical specifications – Rolex Yacht-Master 42 RLX Titanium 226627
10 responses.
RLX, which is Grade 5 Titanium. 🙂 I laughed out loud, because it’s just so typical for the obfuscation the brand foists upon us via their marketing behemoth on an annual basis.
A “Piece Unique” is more common than this model ….
I have been looking forward to this for a while. But, I was hoping/expecting a more adjustable bracelet. If they can do it on the Pelagos at 1/3 the price, there’s no excuse they can’t do it for this
I only know that the so-called special steel Rolex uses on the bezel of their regular models was soft and easily scratched on the Rolex I owned. My humble Tissot which I wore every day for years, was much more scratch resistant. I wasn’t impressed with the materials Rolex uses. They make them look impressive in photos.I thought Rolex was the watch to have, until I got one.Sold and moved on.
IWC Mark XX vs new Ingenuier – the internet melts down at how expensive the watch is using the same movement.
DJ36 vs YM42 RLX- the internet would do anything (deranged Sxual favors included) to pay double for the YM even though they have the same movement.
Quite like the look of this one on its own, but on the wrist it looks genuinly gigantic..
Old dog doing new trick? It’s tough
Well, it really looks nice, and if it is that big and only weights 100 grams, that is really awesome!!!! I love Titanium watches more than any gold watch. But I am of the opinion that although Rolex is a brand producing excellent watches with a QC second to none, it is still too expensive for my taste. I own since 2017 as part of my watch collection, an Ocean 7 Diver chronometer with an ETA 2824-2, saphire crystal, ceramic bezel, 2000m WR with He Valve, and it had never failed me as my daily watch, and I only paid for it 365.00 USD including taxes new. I also have a 1971 Submariner, and I use both daily,one on each wrist, and I don’t see any difference on the accuracy/function. But I have to pay a fortune every time the Rolex is serviced, not with the Ocean 7 that I can service myself- I am a pretty good amateur watchmaker myself, is one of my hobbies. And when I am working at the Hospital near the MRI machines with that strong magnetic field, I then use my Speedmaster Master Chronometer with cal.3861, and it works flawlessly, and it is less expensive than this YM. I like expensive watches, but still look for the best bang of my buck. And I am an owner of a JLC Deep Sea 40mm, a Blancpain Fifty Fatoms, a Zodiac Super Sea Wolf, a Juvenia 200M Diver’s, and an Omega SMPO as part of my diver’s watch collection. But I like this Titanium YM a lot more than the Submariner or the Sea Dweller. That is what I can say.
best thing about this watch is it’s an alternative to the biG piLLowized case of the redesigned submariner a few years back. softer scratchable titanium and no bezel lume (guess people only yacht in the daytime) are reasons not to buy.
Really, why does one need a 42mm titanium Rolex watch when sailing his uber racing yacht!?! One need to keep your eyes on the gyro compass, or the magnetic compass including (always) the trim of the sails including the large readout on the on the E-chart display which includes instantly time, speed, direction and position. Last: Why does one need a watch when sailing in a corrosive salt sea and air environment? Answer: Beats me unless one wishes to show off his wealth at the yacht club dinner during post racing presentations where a 42mm titanium Rolex is a must.
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Rolex Chronographs: Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II
The Daytona is, without a doubt, Rolex’s most famous chronograph model. However, it is sometimes overlooked that a Rolex does, in fact, manufacture another chronograph collection – the Yacht-Master II. While both are technically chronograph watches, they are actually very different timepieces, both inside and out. Today we will be comparing the brand’s duo of contemporary chronograph models, the Rolex Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II.
So, how do these two Rolex chronograph watches differ when it comes to their designs and functionality? Let’s find out as we review these stylish used Rolex watch models .
Origins: Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II
Rolex first unleashed the Cosmograph Daytona in 1963 as a chronograph dedicated to motorsports. However, as manually-wound models with 38mm cases, vintage Daytona watches are significantly different from the versions of today. It was only in 2000 that we saw the first iterations of today’s Daytona models; that is to say, 40mm watches that run on in-house automatic chronograph movements.
These editions of the Rolex Daytona collection carry six-digit reference numbers and are powered by the Caliber 4130. Prior to this generation, there were the five-digit Daytona models fitted with Rolex-modified, Zenith El Primero automatic movements, which were produced from 1988 until 2000.
In total, the Daytona utilizes three different generations of movements. First was the hand-wound generation, followed by the automatic Zenith generation, and then the automatic in-house Rolex caliber 4130. The collection has one of the most intriguing histories on the market, spanning decades and producing countless design variations, and even the famous Paul Newman Daytona that fetched one of the highest sums on the secondary market of nearly $18 million.
On the other hand, the Yacht-Master II is a relatively new Rolex model, having made its debut in 2007. What’s more, when it was released, the Yacht-Master II was Rolex’s largest watch, sporting a 44mm case. As its name implies, the Rolex Yacht-Master II was developed for the sailing crowd, rather than the automobile racing crew. In addition to its over-the-top case size and design, the Yacht-Master II was also the brand’s most complex watch (until the introduction of the Sky-Dweller in 2012), equipped with a regatta chronograph, complete with mechanical memory and fly-back functionality for facilitated synchronization.
Design: Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II
The Daytona’s 40mm case comes fitted with a pair of screw-down chronograph pushers flanking its screw-down winding crown. This is to keep any moisture out of the watch, ensuring its 100-meter water resistance. The fixed bezels of the Daytona watches – crafted from either metal or Cerachrom (ceramic) – are engraved with a tachymeter scale (except for the gem-set bezel editions), while the dials house a trio of subsidiary registers.
In true Rolex fashion, there are plenty of different dial colors and index styles to choose from. Material options within the six-digit Daytona family include stainless steel, yellow gold, white gold, Everose gold, two-tone steel and yellow gold, and platinum. Most Daytona models come with metal Oyster bracelets however, there are some gold Daytona watches that are presented on black rubber Oysterflex bracelets as well. Rolex previously manufactured leather-strap versions but they are no longer in production.
In direct contrast to the Daytona’s classic looks and restrained proportions, the Yacht-Master II is proudly big, bold, and badass. Its bezel – either in bright blue Cerachrom (ceramic) or platinum – sits on the 44mm case and is emblazoned with the “YACHT-MASTER II” name, along with numbers 1 – 10. The white dial with red and blue accents offers three distinct areas for three readings: the center hands, the 10-minute countdown display, and the running seconds sub-dial.
Early editions of the Yacht-Master II included straight hour and minute hands until around 2017, while current versions have the familiar Mercedes-style hands. The hour markers received a small upgrade from blue to white gold surrounds to match the hands. Additionally, Rolex replaced the square hour marker at 12 o’clock with an inverted triangle and the marker at 6 o’clock with a slightly elongated baton hour marker. Material choices of the Yacht-Master II include yellow gold, white gold (with a platinum bezel), stainless steel, and two-tone Everose gold and steel. Additionally, all Yacht-Master II watches come with matching metal Oyster bracelets.
Calibers and Functionality: Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II
Manufactured entirely in-house, the Daytona’s Caliber 4130 has been heralded by many watch enthusiasts as one of the most reliable and robust automatic chronograph movements on the market. One of its defining features is the use of a vertical (rather than lateral) clutch to activate the chronograph. This not only permits the chronograph hand to run smoothly without any signs of “jittering,” but also allows the chronograph function to run for a long time with no influence on the Daytona’s precision. Thanks to Caliber 4130, the Daytona features a chronograph hand accurate to within 1/8 of a second, a 30-minute counter at 3, a 12-hour counter at 9, a small seconds register at 6, and a power reserve of 72 hours.
When Rolex launched the Yacht-Master II in 2007, inside the watch was the Caliber 4160, which was then upgraded to Caliber 4161 in 2013. While these in-house chronograph calibers are based on the Caliber 4130, they are much more complex in terms of functionality. Rolex maintains that the Caliber 4160/4161 was the result of over 35,000 hours of development.
Most intriguing, the bezel on the Yacht-Master II is not just for show. Instead, turning it allows the user to flip through what functions of the watch to set. And one of these functions includes a programmable countdown timer (from 1 – 10 minutes), which also memorizes the desired setting t when you reset the timer. So, if you love a seven-minute jammy egg or a four-minute brew, then your Yacht-Master II is there for you.
The central chronograph hand also has flyback functionality, which means that you can reset it back to zero with the press of a single button while it is in motion. Additionally, just like its base caliber, the Cal. 4160/4161 also has a 72-hour power reserve.
While both chronographs have countless everyday applications, they cater to two totally different niches. The Daytona, with its motorsport roots, was initially developed to help the wearer record various stats while driving, such as speed, distance traveled, and elapsed time. On the other hand, the Yacht-Master II was inspired by regatta and features a race countdown mechanism.
How to Use The Bezels on Daytona vs. Yacht-Master II
The Daytona bezel is fixed, so its primary function relies on the chronograph movement. To activate the chronograph, press the top pusher above the crown. The chronograph seconds hand will start to race around the dial. The top pusher will also stop the chronograph while the bottom pusher resets it to zero. For example, to measure speed, simply activate the chronograph by pressing the top pusher. Once you’ve driven a mile, stop the chronograph by pressing the top pusher again. The chronograph hand will point to the corresponding speed on the Tachymeter bezel.
The Yacht-Master II bezel is connected to the movement and it is often referred to as a “Ring Command Bezel.” To use the programmable regatta countdown, you first need to unscrew the crown and rotate the bezel counterclockwise 90 degrees. Then, press the bottom pusher and turn the crown clockwise to move the arrow hand to the desired 10-minute count-down increment. Once the bezel is rotated back to its original position and the crown is screwed back into the case, you can press the top pusher to start or stop the countdown. The chronograph seconds hand will begin to move around the dial, once every minute. The famous flyback and fly-forward functionality is engaged by pressing the bottom pusher, sending the arrow hand backwards or forwards to the nearest minute in the countdown.
Side-by-side, these two Rolex chronographs look nothing alike. The Daytona offers traditional chronograph styling and functionality, while the Yacht-Master II is more aggressively designed and offers a niche complication in the form of a regatta chronograph. So, which one would be your pick?
About Paul Altieri
Paul Altieri is a vintage and pre-owned Rolex specialist, entrepreneur, and the founder and CEO of BobsWatches.com. - the largest and most trusted name in luxury watches. He is widely considered a pioneer in the industry for bringing transparency and innovation to a once-considered stagnant industry. His experience spans over 35 years and he has been published in numerous publications including Forbes, The NY Times, WatchPro, and Fortune Magazine. Paul is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the watch industry and e-commerce, and regularly engages with other professionals in the industry. He is a member of the IWJG, the AWCI and a graduate of the GIA. Alongside running the premier retailer of pre-owned Rolex watches, Paul is a prominent Rolex watch collector himself amassing one of the largest private collections of rare timepieces. In an interview with the WSJ lifestyle/fashion editor Christina Binkley, Paul opened his vault to display his extensive collection of vintage Rolex Submariners and Daytonas. Paul Altieri is a trusted and recognized authority in the watch industry with a proven track record of expertise, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.
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List Of Rolex Watches Discontinued At Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024 Including Every Yacht-Master II
As always, new Rolex releases bring the quiet discontinuation of Rolex watches, and Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024 is no different. Here’s a quick look at the watches Rolex discontinued from April 09, 2024.
Rolex Daytona Le Mans 126529LN
One of the most collectible and rare Rolex watches right from the moment when it was released in June 2023 , the Rolex Daytona “Le Mans” reference 126529LN was always destined to be unobtainable for the overwhelming majority of VIP customers of the brand. In a rather shocking development, Rolex drops it from its collection after less than a year, as the Rolex Daytona Le Mans was in production just from June 2023 until April 2024. Basically, it is a Daytona in 18k white gold with a black Cerachrom ceramic bezel with a red “100” marker in honor of the centenary of Le Mans. In other words, the Rolex 126529LN was produced just for the centenary of this legendary race, and no longer. It is back in 18k yellow gold for 2024.
Rolex Datejust 36 126200 & 126233 With A Palm Dial & Fluted Dial
The Rolex Datejust 36 reference 126200 with so-called Palm dials and Fluted dials also got the axe for 2024. These laser-etched dials were beautifully made as they displayed depth and fascinating light-plays between their bright and dark surfaces. They well and truly were a tour de force of Rolex’s in-house manufacturing know-how, and are discontinued after just 3 years in production for the Rolex Datejust 36 Palm dials and Rolex Datejust 36 Fluted dials.
The Entire Rolex Yacht-Master II Collection
It is extremely rare for Rolex to drop an entire collection, and such a development is all the more surprising for a watch fitted with an expensively developed, fully bespoke movement. The Rolex Yacht-Master II is such a watch, as its Rolex 4161 caliber with its programmable countdown regatta chronograph operated through a crown, two pushers, and a Ring Command is as quirky as they could ever get not just in the world of Rolex, but in the world of luxury watchmaking in general. This is to say that we wouldn’t be surprised to see the Yacht-Master II or its 4161 caliber return at some point. The Yacht-Master II was updated a few years ago with the Rolex “Professional” style handset replacing the straight hands that debuted on the piece in 2007, but the collection was otherwise left largely untouched by Rolex, other than dropping the 18k white gold reference 116689 in 2022.
These are the most important and notable discontinuation news of Rolex watches for 2024. We will keep our eyes out for others that might have slipped through, but Rolex axing the laser-etched dials on the Datejust 36, dropping the Yacht-Master II collection in its entirety, and producing the Rolex Daytona “Le Mans” for such a brief period in the brand’s history is big news for 2024. You can learn more at the brand’s website.
Watch Ideas
Rolex Yacht-Master vs. Daytona: Wristwatch Comparison
If you’re in the market for a high-end watch and you’ve settled on the Rolex Yacht-Master or the Rolex Daytona , the reality is that you can’t go wrong—both are backed by the trusted Rolex brand, after all. Nevertheless, each series of watches includes select options and unique features that might give you the edge you’re looking for. Today we are comparing the Rolex Yachtmaster vs Daytona.
From reviewing the specifications and highlights of each watch, on the whole, I prefer the Yacht-Master series—specifically the original Yacht-Master collection (we’ll get to that)—to the Daytona line, on account of its slim, sleek contour and (to-be-expected) reliability. That said, there is much to recommend the later Yacht-Master II and the Daytona, and if you are primarily looking to fill a technical, functional need with your watch purchase, then the original Yacht-Master, the simplest of the three, may not be the best choice.
First things first, choosing a watch from the Rolex line means several certainties: you know you’re getting a reliable and durable chronograph, you know you’re adding a stylish piece of apparel to your wardrobe, and you know that every time you put it on, you’ll have wandering eyes fixated in envy on your classic timepiece.
But this isn’t a decision to take lightly. It’s an expensive investment, and not all watches—even high-end ones—are made equally. In this case, it isn’t just a question of “Are you a sailor (Yacht-Master) or a racer (Daytona)?” The Daytona series has a design optimized for measuring high speeds, while the Yacht-Master provides additional timekeeping functions the likes of which you might find handy during a regatta . Let’s take a closer look at all they can do.
The Yacht-Master
The yacht-master ii, the rolex cosmograph daytona: the ultimate chronograph, related posts, the rolex yacht-master: the watch of the open seas, official description.
The Rolex Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II models embody the spirit of the sailor. Inspired by the rich heritage that has bound Rolex to the world of sailing since the 1950s, the Yacht-Master blends function and style, while the Yacht-Master II brings together the finest in Rolex technology to create a regatta chronograph built for yachting competition.
As the description notes, choosing the Yacht-Master series means making another choice: the original Yacht-Master (debuted in 1992), or the Yacht-Master II (first released in 2007).
The headline model of the Yacht-Master series is the Yacht-Master 40 , though Rolex also released a slightly smaller option, the Yacht-Master 37 . For the purpose of this review, I will focus on the headline model, but both the 40mm and the 37mm options can be configured to the buyer’s preference in terms of material, color, and dial type.
Specifications
- Model Case: Oyster, 40mm, 18 ct Everose gold
- Oyster Architecture: Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown
- Bezel: Bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel with matt black Cerachrom insert in ceramic, polished raised numerals, and graduations
- Winding Crown: Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system
- Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date
- Water-Resistance: Waterproof to 100 meters / 330 feet
- Movement: Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding
- Calibre: 3135, Manufacture Rolex
- Precision: -2/+2 sec/day, after casing
- Functions: Centre hour, minute, and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting
- Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours
- Bracelet: Oysterflex: Flexible metal blades over-molded with high-performance elastomer
- Clasp: Folding Oysterlock safety clasp
- Dial: Black, with highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence
The headline model, reference number 116655, is designed with an Everose gold trim, a black watch-face, and the Rolex patented rubber Oyster strap, the first rubber strap on any model of Rolex watch. The Oysterflex strap, branded as a sporty alternative to the typical metal strap , is also hypoallergenic, so allay any concerns you may have in that regard.
The design, though uncommon, is not unbecoming. It matches the aesthetic of the chic watch face well, and in fact, the slim style of the rubber strap carries its own elegance that matches the rather svelte original Yacht-Master . Practically, it has the advantage of the ease of use and even more ease in cleaning, should it get muddy or slimy while you bandy about the wet rigging of your sailboat, as the absence of metal links, eliminates a natural trap for dirt or otherwise.
The primary unique feature of the watch– the bi-directional rotatable bezel for recording time (when sailing between two buoys, for example)–is a distinct advantage to those who intend to put their watch to the practical test beyond merely keeping time. Whether you’re on the high seas or cooking steak in the backyard, any reason to leave your phone untouched (in this case, for the timer), and to put your new Yacht-Master to use, is a good reason.
The original Yacht-Master is an integral watch in the Rolex collection, and the headliner, Everose gold with black Oyster strap, will set you apart as a connoisseur in the timekeeping world. Whether the occasion calls for formal business attire, or if you’re stretched out on the boat for the weekend, your Yacht-Master will strike the right tone .
Don’t take the release of a second series of Yacht-Master watches as an indication that the first series didn’t make the grade. That said, if you opt for the newer option, you will be rewarded with several new features. Again, this review will focus on the headline watch, reference number 116680, a 44mm watch with a steel plate, but as always Rolex gives you the option to customize your selection.
- Model Case: Oyster, 44mm, 904L steel
- Bezel: Bidirectional rotatable Ring Command bezel. Blue Cerachrom insert in ceramic, engraved numerals and inscription
- Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire
- Water-Resistance: Waterproof to 100 metres / 330 feet
- Movement: Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding, regatta chronograph
- Calibre: 4161, Manufacture Rolex
- Functions: Centre hour and minute hands, small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. Programmable countdown with mechanical memory and on-the-fly synchronization. Stop-seconds for precise time setting
- Power Reserve: Approximately 72 hours
- Bracelet: Oysterflex, flat three-piece links of 904L steel
- Clasp: Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension
- Dial: White, with highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence
Let’s start with two mechanical/functional differences from the original Yacht-Master, and we’ll consider the stylistic changes second. Both watches offer a perpetual, self-winding movement, but this newer watch adds to that the regatta chronograph, a programmable counter for up to ten minutes, ideal for timing the starting sequence of a regatta . Rolex touts this innovation as the product of nearly 35,000 hours of development, resulting in a complex mechanism that uses some 360 parts.
As a result, Rolex produced one of the first watches with a bezel synchronized to the movement of the watch itself. The timer can be locked into place beforehand, and the wearer simply toggles the knob on the side of the watch to start, or synchronize the timer with the watch. The new Yacht-Master also has a battery life of approximately 72 hours, compared with the 48 hours of the original .
As for the physical appearance of the Yacht-Master II, the most notable difference is its size, which is 44mm across the face rather than 40mm like the original . This is a minor difference, but when the watch is clasped around your wrist–which, presumably, it will be–the difference is noticeable, as those additional few millimeters more or less cover the skin that otherwise remains exposed with the original watch.
The additional space also allows for a slightly more embellished watch-face on the Yacht-Master II, most notably the inclusion of a small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. The additional features do give the impression of a bulkier watch, and really it will be a matter of taste if you prefer the larger or small dimensions. For my taste, I prefer the slimmer cut .
Finally, the newer Yacht-Master is designed with a metal clasp, rather than the innovative rubber strap of the original. The metal clasp can be extended by 5mm for comfort. This is a more classic look for high-end watches, though the rubber strap is far from inelegant, and I have already given the reasons why it adds merit to the Yacht-Master , especially for anyone intending to put the watch to its semi-aquatic intended use. That said, either watch can be adjusted and configured to your preference of a rubber or metal clasp, so neither watch takes advantage in this regard.
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, introduced in 1963, was designed to meet the demands of professional racing drivers. With its highly reliable chronograph and bezel with a tachymetric scale, it allows drivers to perfectly measure average speeds up to 400 kilometers or miles per hour, as they choose. An icon eternally joined in name and function to the high‑performance world of motorsport.
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is one of the classic timepieces of the Rolex brand. Its durability and lasting favor speak for themselves, as does the lifetime endorsement of Paul Newman, who supposedly wore his original Cosmograph Daytona every day from 1972 until his death in 2008 . This review will look at the 116503 model, but, again, the watch components can be configured to the buyer’s demand.
- Model Case: Oyster, 40mm, Yellow Rolesor – combination 904L steel and 18 ct yellow gold
- Bezel: Fixed, with engraved tachymetric scale, in 18 ct yellow gold
- Caliber: 4130, Manufacture Rolex
- Functions: Centre hour, minute and seconds hands, small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. Chronograph (center hand) accurate to within 1/8 of a second, 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock and 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock. Stop-seconds for precise time setting
- Bracelet: Oyster, flat three-piece links
- Dial: Black, with snailed small counters
The feature most obvious when observing the Daytona watch is the presence of three small-timers inside the main watch face. The Daytona is designed for the speedsters of the world, and that means it is precise to the ultimate degree. The middle counter, positioned at 6 o’clock, is the second hand; the counter on the right records minutes lapsed, and the counter on the left records hours lapsed. Seconds can be measured to 1/8th of a second .
On the circumference of the watch face, the dials used for the timing mechanisms are designed to screw down into the machine when not in use to ensure the timepiece remains waterproof. When they are in use, they are designed to be perfectly waited to respond to the wearer’s instantaneous pressure, so as to maximize accuracy in recording matters of great precision, like lap times.
Stylistically, the watch stands up to its reputation. Despite all the counters and features readily and intuitively available at a glance, the watch face manages to maintain a clean countenance all within a 40mm width. There are no excess tics or trivialities. Everything about the watch is designed for maximum efficiency . And in that delicate push-and-pull between efficiency and style, Rolex settled on the balance you see on the Daytona watch that has enabled it to survive over half a century as a symbol for quality and elegance. There is little to dislike in this timepiece .
Conclusion – Rolex Yachtmaster vs Daytona
Any time you’re deciding between high-end watches, a large part of the decision will simply come down to personal preference . Neither the Yacht-Master nor the Cosmographer Daytona will disappoint when it comes to performance, and they’re guaranteed to impress when it comes to style. With that in mind, if you are looking for a watch that will fulfill a specific function beyond simple timekeeping –that is to say if you are a car enthusiast looking for a watch primed to measure and calculate speeds, or if you need a watch worthy of your own sea legs, or what have you– then your best value will be whichever watch is designed to most closely match your needs .
But sometimes you don’t need a watch suited for high-speed road racing or that can perfect your regatta race. Sometimes you need a watch that will set you apart at the office and with your clients. Sometimes you need a watch that will turn heads around town. Sometimes you just need a watch. And for my money, if you’ve narrowed your search down to the Yacht-Master and the Daytona: go with the original Yacht-Master . It’s slim, it’s slick, it’s simple, and in simplicity there is beauty. The more sober the statement, the bolder the claim .
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Precious on land and at sea. Available in three diameters - 37, 40 and 42 mm - and in various precious versions - 18 ct yellow, white and Everose gold - as well as in Everose Rolesor and Rolesium versions, the Yacht-Master is unique in the world of Rolex professional watches.
Discover the Yacht-Master 42 watch in 18 ct white gold on the Official Rolex Website. Model:m226659-0002 ... Like all Rolex Professional watches, the Yacht-Master 42 offers exceptional legibility in all circumstances, and especially in the dark, thanks to its Chromalight display. ... Cosmograph Daytona; Datejust; Lady-Datejust; Day-Date ...
Like every Rolex, the Yacht-Master 37 is a Superlative Chronometer. Rolex offers the 37-mm model in various materials, from Everose gold to Rolesor and Rolesium. The latter bears the reference number 268622. The stainless steel and Everose gold Yacht-Master Chocolate ref. 268621 features a chocolate brown dial and is very popular among Rolex fans.
Yacht-Master Key Features: - Case Size: 29mm, 35mm, 37mm, 40mm, 42mm - Material Options: Rolesium, Yellow Rolesor, Everose Rolesor, 18k Yellow Gold, 18k Everose Gold, 18k White Gold - Functions: Time with running seconds, date display. - Bezel: 60-minute timing (bi-directional) - Water Resistance: 100 meteres / 330 feet. - Strap/Bracelet: Oyster bracelet, Oysterflex bracelet
Rolex gold is an intrinsic part of the Yacht-Master's identity: 18 kt yellow, white or Everose gold are comprised of 750‰ pure gold and blends of silver, copper and palladium. They are all entirely created and cast in our own foundry. The Yacht-Master in 18 kt Everose gold is available in two diameters: 37 mm and 40 mm.
Just like the 37mm and 40mm Everose gold Rolex Yacht-Master models that are also fitted with Oysterflex bracelets, the Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226659 receives a bidirectional timing bezel with an insert that is crafted from Rolex's proprietary Cerachrom ceramic material. ... Whether fitted to a Daytona, Sky-Dweller, or Yacht-Master watch, all of ...
Strap: black elastomer with hidden flexible blades - 18k yellow gold folding clasp with extension system. Reference: 226658. Price: EUR 26,700. Rolex 2022 Luxury Watches Novelty Sports watch. Print. We go deep and review the new, high-end Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Yellow Gold 226658, the luxurious nautical watch of the brand.
The first generation of Rolex Yacht-Master with a yellow gold case and white dial - reference 16628 introduced at Baselworld 1992. The modern-day version of the Yacht-Master made its first appearance with the reference 16628, an 18k yellow gold version with a white dial and black-filled hour markers.
Thanks to Caliber 4130, the Daytona features a chronograph hand accurate to within 1/8 of a second, a 30-minute counter at 3, a 12-hour counter at 9, a small seconds register at 6, and a power reserve of 72 hours. When Rolex launched the Yacht-Master II in 2007, inside the watch was the Caliber 4160, which was then upgraded to Caliber 4161 in 2013.
Rolex Daytona Le Mans 126529LN. ... Basically, it is a Daytona in 18k white gold with a black Cerachrom ceramic bezel with a red "100" marker in honor of the centenary of Le Mans. In other words, the Rolex 126529LN was produced just for the centenary of this legendary race, and no longer. ... The Rolex Yacht-Master II is such a watch, as ...
The Rolex Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II models embody the spirit of the sailor. Inspired by the rich heritage that has bound Rolex to the world of sailing since the 1950s, the Yacht-Master blends function and style, while the Yacht-Master II brings together the finest in Rolex technology to create a regatta chronograph built for yachting ...
Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Listing: $15,570 Rolex Yacht-Master 40, Reference number 126621; Gold/Steel; Automatic; Condition Very good; Year 2023; Watch with orig. Skip. Have you tried the Chrono24 app? Discover now ! ... Rolex Daytona Received: March 29, 2024 Shipped from: United States of America.
Rose Gold Yacht Master VS Rose Gold Daytona. Hello Crew, As the title says, I'm debating my third Rolex for the end of the year. ... "Every Rolex is made for greatness. The GMT-Master, introduced in 1955, was developed in collaboration with Pan Am to meet the needs of their international pilots. The GMT-Master II has proven to be even more ...
Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Listing: $17,662 Rolex Yacht-Master 40, Reference number 126621; Gold/Steel; Automatic; Condition Very good; Year 2022; Watch with orig. Skip. Have you tried the Chrono24 app? Discover now ! ... Rolex Daytona. 116520 $ 44,326 + $1,139 for shipping. IT. Rolex Sea-Dweller. 126600 $ 13,663
Rolex Yacht-Master Listing: £12,890 Rolex Yacht-Master 35mm 18kt. Gold Blue Dial 68628 Full Set LC100, Reference number 68628; Yellow gold; Automatic; Condition Very good; Year 1999; Watch with orig. ... Rolex Daytona Received: 8 August 2024 Shipped from: Germany. Transaction rapide et efficace, montre neuve et correspond à la description RAS ...
Tough choice. These are my two all time realistic dream watches. I guess I'd go with the Yatch master. 1. Reply. jwis6306 • 1 yr. ago. I'd say Daytona. Steel is more versatile than rose gold, it wears extremely well, and it just has more significance overall, historically and among todays watch community. 1.
Buy Rolex Yacht-Master watches at Avi & Co. In stock including models including 37, 40, 42, II and more. 100% money back guarantee. ... Cosmograph Daytona; Datejust. Datejust 31; Datejust 36; Datejust 41; Lady-Datejust; All Datejust Models; Day-Date. ... Rolex Yacht-Master II. 116688, 18K Yellow Gold, White Dial, 44 mm. 116688, 18K Yellow Gold ...
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 116621-0001 is an elegant and luxurious timepiece. With a sleek stainless steel case and 18k rose gold bezel, this watch is both stylish and luxurious. The chocolate dial has dot and index hour markers, along with a date window at 3 o'clock. The two tone oyster bracelet is held together by an Oysterlock safety clasp ...
Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Listing: Price on request Rolex NEW 2021 UNWORN Yacht-Master 40 Everose Gold Black Dial..., Reference number 126655; Rose gold; Automatic; Condition New; Year 2021; Watch with original bo. Skip. ... Rolex Daytona. Like NEW 2014 Cosmograph Daytona Everose Gold Chocolate Arabic Dial 116505 COMPLETE SET $ 41,995 + $99 for ...
The ideal Rolex watches for water sports and sailing. Discover the Yacht-Master models, a combination of character, performance and robustness. The ideal Rolex watches for water sports and sailing. ... Yacht-Master 42. Oyster, 42 mm, white gold. Extra confidence. Oysterlock Discover more. Yacht-Master 40.
Rolex Daytona Reference 116519. A white gold automatic wristwatch with chronograph. 40,900 USD. Type: retail. Rolex. ... and whimsical dials. From the also-iconic Datejust to lesser-known models like the Rolex Yacht-Master and the Rolex Sky-Dweller, there is always something more to explore. Shop Rolex Watches Type: retail.
Discover the Yacht-Master 42 watch in 18 ct yellow gold on the Official Rolex Website. Model:m226658-0001 ... Like all Rolex Professional watches, the Yacht-Master 42 offers exceptional legibility in all circumstances, and especially in the dark, thanks to its Chromalight display. ... Cosmograph Daytona; Datejust; Lady-Datejust; Day-Date ...
Rolex Day-Date 40mm Rose-Gold Green Dial. Rolex Yacht Master II Oystersteel Super Clone. Rolex Datejust 36 Mother of Pearl Diamond Dial. Rolex Yacht Master II Oystersteel. Rolex Daytona Chocolate Dial
Discover the Yacht-Master 40 watch in 18 ct Everose gold on the Official Rolex Website. Model:m126655-0002 ... 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. ... Cosmograph Daytona; Datejust; Lady-Datejust; Day-Date ...
Rolex Yachtmaster 40mm Everose Rose Gold Oysterflex Mens Watch 126655 Box Card. Officially certified chronometer self-winding movement. Rolex Everose 18K rose gold case 40.0 mm in diameter. Screwed-down case back and crown. Triplock winding-crown protected by crown guards. Rolex logo on the crown.
Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Listing: $28,917 Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm 18ct Rose Gold Black Oysterflex 116655..., Reference number 116655; Rose gold; Automatic; Condition Very good; Year 2017; Watch with origi ... Cosmograph Daytona 40mm Steel & 18ct Yellow Gold Oyster 116503 2019 $ 22,803 + $113 for shipping. UK. Cartier Santos. De Santos 39.8mm 18ct ...
Oyster, 41 mm, Oystersteel and yellow gold. Oyster architecture. Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown. Diameter. 41 mm. Material. Yellow Rolesor - combination of Oystersteel and yellow gold. Bezel. Unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated, scratch-resistant Cerachrom insert in black ceramic, numerals and graduations ...
Rolex supports the Azores Deep-Sea Research group as they scientifically document the deep ocean floor with the revolutionary Azor drift-cam. ... Gold watches; The collection. Air-King; Cosmograph Daytona; Datejust; Lady-Datejust; Day-Date; Explorer; GMT-Master II; Oyster Perpetual; Sea-Dweller; Deepsea; Sky-Dweller; Submariner; Yacht-Master ...
MERCURY BOUTIQUE - Official Rolex Jeweler. Discover the experience of buying a Rolex at our store in Stoleshnikov Pereulok 15 107031 Moscow Russia.
Moscow11:05 pm. Currently closed. Our store in Moscow, Russiais recognized as an Official Rolex Retailer, as we only sell genuine Rolex timepieces. Official Rolex Retailer. ROLEX BOUTIQUEGUM. Red Square 3109012 MoscowRussia. +7 495 937 53 73. Get directions. Visit website.