Why Choose a Rolex Yacht Master?
The Yacht Master and Yacht Master II are beautifully crafted watches designed and produced by Rolex. We know choosing between the two can’t be easy, so we’re going to give you their history and compare their features to help you decide.
History of the Yacht Master
The Yacht Master was first introduced for sale in 1992. Its style derives from an earlier Rolex model, The Submariner, with the addition of an altered bezel. Originally, the watch was only sold in 18k yellow gold but in 1997 they released the Yacht Master in Rolesium as we have in store now. Rolex later developed a second model (Yacht-Master II) with upgraded features that allowed synchronisation, ‘Regatta’ countdown programming function and program lock system.
Great features of the Yacht Master
Both the Yacht Master and Yacht Master II have great features and some of them just so happen to coincide. For instance, both models share the Oyster architecture with winding crown and screw-down case back. The patented ‘Triplock’ triple waterproof system allows for water resistance up to a depth of 100 meters, and the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal ensures the water face maintains its pristine condition.
With the perpetual, mechanical self-winding feature you never have to wind a Rolex Yacht Master manually. The Yacht Masters have an accuracy of -2/+2 sec/day which means that they are near perfect at keeping time, but they’re also perfectly secure with their folding oyster lock safety clasp that prevents accidental opening. In fact, the bracelet length can be increased by 5mm which provides added comfort and flexibility in size. Lastly, both Yacht Master models have the classic, robust flat three-piece links that are built to last, which means these watches can last a lifetime.
Differences between model types
There are some differences between the two makes, have a read of the list below to find out what they are before you decide to purchase one of your own.
| Watch | ||
| Feature | Yacht Master II | |
|
|  | |
| Model Case | Oyster, 40mm, steel and platinum | Oyster, 44mm,steel and Everose gold |
| Diameter | 40mm | 44mm |
| Material | Rolesium A combination of 904L steel and platinum | Everose Rolesor A combination of 904L steel and 18ct Everose gold |
| Bezel |
The 950 platinum has a vibrant luminosity that imparts a feeling of luxury. The bidirectional 60-minute graduatedbezel is made of precious materials. Against the matt, background the raised numbers and graduations stand out. The bezel has added functionality as it allows the wearer to calculate the time between two locations | Rolex Ring Command (bidirectional 90° rotatable interacting with the movement) Made from 18ct gold with a blue Cerachrom insert in ceramic and the numerals are gold coated Unlike most, the bezel on this Rolex operates in conjunction with the internal mechanisms. This means it can be set and synchronised to times for example race times. The mechanics are complicated but the design simple to use. |
| Calibre | 3135, Manufacture Rolex
The watch’s self-winding, entirely mechanical movement is manufactured and developed by Rolex. This model a certified Swiss chronometer |
This self-winding mechanical regatta chronograph movement is solely developed and manufactured by Rolex. It took 35,000 hours to develop but the Yacht II is fitted with a unique patented mechanical memory created by Rolex. Many of the tiny more complicated components could only be produced through the use of new cutting edge technology. This model is a certified Swiss Chronometer |
| Functions | Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting | Centre hour and minute hands, small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. Programmable countdown with mechanical memory and on-the-fly synchronisation. Stop-seconds for precise time setting |
| Power Reserve | Approx. 48 hours | Approx. 72 hours |
| Bracelet material | 904L steel | Everose Rolesor |
| Dial | Platinum The hour markers are fashioned from 18ct gold to prevent tarnishing. As all Rolex dials are, this one created in-house and made mostly by hand to enquire its quality. | White The Yacht Master II’s red countdown arrow and the second’s hand are readable at a glance against the 10-minute countdown graduation on the dial and the graduations on the bezel |
| Details | Highly legible ‘Chromalight’ display with long-lasting blue luminescence | Chromalight hour markers |
Now that you’re all clued up about these impressive two models, why not visit our Ramsgate store to view these stunning pieces up close.