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Yacht-Master II

Introduced: 2007 — Rolex’s boldest, most technically advanced regatta chronograph

Purpose / Inspiration:
The Yacht-Master II wasn’t built for fashion or status—it was built for the start line. Designed specifically for yacht racing, it features a mechanical countdown timer with programmable memory—something no other chronograph on the market does. It’s a hyper-specialized tool disguised as a conversation-starting wrist monster. Big, bright, and unapologetically complex, the YMII is for those who want something louder than a Sub and rarer than a Daytona.

Designer:
Rolex’s engineering team, led by the challenge of building a programmable countdown complication—developed entirely in-house over several years

Case size:

  • 44mm — largest professional model in Rolex’s lineup
  • Oyster case with broad lugs and massive wrist presence
  • 50mm lug-to-lug length — made to be seen, not to disappear

Case options:

  • Oystersteel
  • Yellow gold
  • White gold with platinum bezel
  • Rolesor (steel + Everose gold)
  • All feature screw-down Triplock crown and pushers
  • Sapphire crystal with cyclops over date (on some versions)

Powered by:

  • Caliber 4161 — in-house automatic movement with programmable countdown timer
  • 72-hour power reserve
  • Vertical clutch + column wheel for chronograph control
  • Flyback/reset function and memory setting for regatta starts
  • Superlative Chronometer rated (−2/+2 sec/day)

Bezel:

  • Ring Command Bezel — not just decorative
  • Rotates 90° to unlock/reset programmable countdown
  • Ceramic insert with “YACHT-MASTER II” in bold contrasting text
  • Integrates directly with movement—a mechanical feat

Dial options:

  • White dial with blue hands and red countdown arrow
  • Lumed hour markers, small seconds at 6 o’clock
  • Regatta countdown arc from 12 to 4 o’clock
  • Modern versions show rectangular markers and Mercedes hands

Water resistance:

  • 100m
  • Plenty for sailing, splashing, or storms on deck
  • Tool watch roots, with yacht club polish

Bracelet:

  • Oyster bracelet with polished center links
  • Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink extension
  • Solid construction for a heavy, luxurious feel

Still in production, the Yacht-Master II is Rolex’s most specialized sports model—and one of its most misunderstood. It’s not subtle. It’s not small. It’s not for everyone. And that’s the point.

Why it matters:
This isn’t just the most complicated Rolex in the catalog—it’s one of the most purpose-built watches they’ve ever made. The Ring Command bezel alone is a flex of mechanical engineering. You don’t buy this because it’s practical. You buy it because it’s a statement. A trophy. A reminder that sometimes, more really is more.

Not Just Big—Brilliant
The Only Rolex That Does What No Other Chronograph Can

Regatta Roots. Race-Day Functionality. Runway Presence.

For the Ones Who Want Loud, Complicated, and Completely Original

References for Yacht-Master II