Rolex Yacht-Master II Reference 116688
A watch that impresses as much with its presence, as it does with its outstanding complexity: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II.
The Yacht-Master II ranks among the two most complicated watches Rolex currently manufactures — it shares that prestigious position with the Sky-Dweller. What renders the Yacht-Master II so special not only within the Rolex universe, but in the yet wider realm of fine timepieces, is its programmable countdown flyback regatta chronograph.
To learn more about how the Manufacture Rolex Caliber 4161 and its programmable chronograph functions, please visit this highly detailed article.
In essence, the Yacht-Master collection, composed of the Yacht-Master 37, 40, 42 and Yacht-Master II lines, is dedicated to the world of regattas — in other words, the world of competitive sailing.
The highly-engineered case construction of the Yacht-Master II provides 100-meter water resistance despite a lack of screw-down pushers. A closer look at the pushpieces that flank the crown reveal a piston-style design: they are wide and easy to use in high-intensity situations — as well as in perfectly everyday ones.
The Oyster case, the bi-directional rotating Ring Command bezel and, of course, the three-link Oyster case and Oysterlock safety clasp all serve the purpose of comfortable and secure wear near, on, and also in the water.
Despite its rugged exterior, every iteration of the Yacht-Master II features countless stunningly beautiful and refined components. In its most precious presentation, crafted entirely from 18ct yellow gold manufactured in Rolex’s very own gold foundry, a most lavish and luxurious exterior accompanies incredible dial work.
With hands and indices most carefully made from 18ct yellow gold, a crisp, white dial adds an element of clarity and purpose to the Yacht-Master II in yellow gold.
The large, red triangle tipped hand serves as the programmable flyback countdown timer’s minute hand — while the seconds hand is stopped and directed upwards from the center.
A yet closer look reveals the circular pattern of the 6 o’clock sub-dial and the lustrous polishing on the hands and indices, framed by the deep, rich blue of the Cerachrom, highly scratch resistant bezel.
The Yacht-Master II in 18ct yellow gold wraps one of the most complex movement creations of Rolex in an attention-grabbing, yet luxurious and refined presentation — a watch to be worn when aboard your sailing boat… and every other day of the week.
