The Rolex Yacht-Master II is a very big and different watch that looks nothing like a Submariner. Rolex made this 44mm model for yacht racing. It has a unique programmable countdown timer. Rolex discontinued the Yacht-Master II collection after 2024, and since then, collectors have been paying even more attention to this model. It is a heavy watch if you want perfect mechanical engineering on your arm.
Yacht-Master II
The Yacht-Master II is the first luxury watch with a programmable countdown and mechanical memory. You can set it to count down from 10 minutes or 5 minutes.
Rolex launched the Yacht-Master II in 2007. However, it became mainstream in the market around 2010. The original Yacht-Master watch is a time and date watch and has a rotating bezel. On the other hand, the Yacht-Master II is completely different. Rolex built this model for professional sailors.
Some people find the name a little confusing. The company and watch enthusiasts call this “II” because this is the second model in the Yachting line. However, it does not share any parts or features with the first one. Besides, it uses the Ring Command bezel, which is not just for luxury. In fact, it connects and streamlines the movement inside. So, you can turn the bezel to turn “ON” the programming mode, and this is very rare in watchmaking.
Whether you buy the gold or steel Yacht-Master II, the engine inside is the same. Here are the specifications of all Yacht-Master watches:
You can’t get Yacht-Master II on a Jubilee or a rubber Oysterflex strap. It was only sold with the Oyster bracelet. There are four main versions you will see on the market. These include:
Our professional watch experts at Watch Maestro recommend checking the hands before buying a Yacht-Master II. The watch had straight stick hands for models before 2017. However, Rolex updated the model with Mercedes hands after 2017. It has the circle with the three-pointed star and a triangle marker at 12 o’clock. Many people buy the newer version because it is easier to read.
Since you can’t walk into a Rolex store and buy a new Yacht-Master II anymore, the official retail price does not matter. We now look at the secondary market or pre-owned price. Remember, the value depends on the material as well as its box and card.
The market for Yacht-Master II is very interesting. Not everyone can wear this model because it is huge (44mm). That’s why the price was lower than the Daytona for a long time. However, prices have stabilized since their discontinuation in 2024.
An unpolished Yacht-Master II with sharp edges has a higher price. Some people add custom diamonds to the watch. Keep in mind that this can lower the value compared to a factory original. In addition, a watch with papers or a warranty card is worth more because the movement is very complex. Therefore, you must know whether the Yacht-Master II you want to buy or own is legit.
For example, the 2016 model listed above is AED 54,900. It is a Yacht-Master II watch in very good condition and comes with its original papers and box. Gold models are usually higher in price.
Although Rolex stopped selling the Yacht-Master II in April 2024, we think knowing the final sticker price is very important. It helps you understand if you are paying a premium for a collector’s item or getting a good deal on a heavy-hitter watch. The last retail price mentioned below is what the Yacht-Master II cost at the boutique right before Rolex discontinued them.
| Reference | Material | Last Official Retail (AED) Approx. | Current Market Price (AED) Approx. |
| 116680 | Stainless Steel | 68,000 | 55,000 to 79,000 |
| 116681 | Steel and Everose Gold | 93,200 | 90,000 to 105,000 |
| 116688 | Yellow Gold | 160,000 | 135,000 to 180,000 |
| 116689 | White Gold or Platinum | 176,000 | 105,000 to 150,000 |
All Rolex watches, including Yacht-Master II, are a good investment. But if you expect it to double in price overnight, then you are mistaken. The model is discontinued, yes, but it has a unique movement of Calibre 4161, and Rolex won’t make it again. Therefore, Yacht-Master II is rare compared to the Submariner. Moreover, the size of the watch usually limits the number of buyers. Professionals at Watch Maestro think that this model retains value well, especially the steel models. For instance, if you bought a steel watch 10 years ago, you can make some profit.
It is extremely challenging for scammers to copy the movement perfectly due to the complex Yacht-Master II mechanism. However, there are still fake watches available on the market. Therefore, checking the authenticity is very important.
We recommend checking the countdown because it defines the function of the Rolex Yacht-Master II. The countdown usually does not work properly with the bezel on a fake watch. On the other hand, when you turn the bezel 90 degrees, it will unlock the setting, which means the watch is real. A fake watch has a bezel that spins freely without doing anything to the movement.
Another important feature is the weight of the Yacht-Master II. Gold models should feel very heavy. For example, a full yellow gold Yacht-Master II feels extremely heavy on the wrist. Moreover, look at the glass at the 6 o’clock position. You will see a tiny Rolex crown etched into the sapphire. Remember, you can only see it with a loupe or strong light at an angle.
Newer Rolex watches have a 5-year warranty. But Rolex stopped producing this model in 2024, but many used watches are still under the official warranty until 2029. So, this transfers to you if you have the warranty card. If you buy this model from Watch Maestro, we will give you a limited one-year warranty.
Testimonials
No. Rolex removed it from the manufacturing list in April 2024. You can only buy a pre-owned Yacht-Master II now.
First, turn the bezel counterclockwise 90 degrees and then press the bottom pusher. Next, unscrew the crown and turn it to set the minute hand to your desired time, which is 1 to 10 minutes. Moreover, turn the bezel back to lock it.
The Yacht-Master II is 44mm because it is a tool for sports. There is water splashing and lots of movement in a race on a boat. Therefore, the dial is big and legible so the skipper can see the countdown time at a glance.
Calibre 4160 was the first version, and Calibre 4161 came later, around 2013. The 4161 is slightly stronger and has cleaner finishing on the parts. However, they do the same job when it comes to functionality.
Yes, it is waterproof up to 100 meters, but you must screw down the crown tightly before getting into the water. Avoid using pushers while submerged.
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