Rolex

Yacht Master II Watches

Rolex is well known as a creator of classic and elegant timepieces. Every one of its creations is the cumulation of years of engineering efforts. That is why we do not get to see Rolex releasing a new watch every year, but when it does, you can already tell it is going to be phenomenal. Of course, the new Yacht Master II debuted in 2010 is no exception and proves to be a huge success like its predecessors.

Let us take a brief look at the history of the Yacht Master II. It was first disclosed in 2007, but it was not until 2010 that it was introduced to the market. The sports watch is currently available in four different models. The Rolex Yacht Master II Gold 116688 and the Rolex Yacht Master II White Gold 116689 were the first to be introduced. Next, there is the Rolex Yacht Master II Everose Gold 116681 released in 2011. As the name suggests, it is made of Everose gold as well as steel. The last one is reference 116680 which greeted the world for the first time in the Baselworld 2013. It is also the first model to be available in 904L steel and is fitted with a Rolex blue Cerachrom aka. ceramic bezel insert.

The Yacht Master II was originally equipped with the Caliber 4160 movement, but was upgraded to Caliber 4161 with the launch of 116680. This movement was specially designed for the Yacht Master II. A notable feature shared by all Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht Master II watches that also sets them apart from the other watch models is the 44 mm case size. The considerably large size gives the watches a commanding presence regardless of the materials they are made of.

The Yacht Master II is prized for being a professional watch for yachting competitions since it is equipped with a regatta, or countdown timer. What exactly is this feature and how does it work? A regatta timer is mainly used by the master of a boat or yacht, also known as the skipper, to determine the exact time for crossing the starting line. If a yacht crosses the startling line prematurely, it will receive a penalty; but at the same time you want to stay as close as possible to the set time to not lag behind. Therefore, it is important to tell the time precisely using a good tool watch. 

Basically, the racing committee of a yacht competition will decide a regatta period during which yachts need to sail back and forth towards the starting line without really crossing it. This period may range from five to ten minutes, up to the rules of the competition as decided by the committee. 

The regatta timer is very easy to operate and the mechanism has been simplified for the Yacht Master II. Simply set the specified minute you want to countdown from and push the trigger at the two o’clock position to begin the timer. In case the trigger is pushed too late or too early, it is also possible to re-adjust the timer at the 5-minute halftime mark. Wait for the second signal and push the reset button at the 4 o’clock position. What is also convenient with the timer is that the remaining time can be easily read down to the seconds. The regatta timer can be useful even if you are not into yachting. For example, it can be used for sports training or cooking.

As mentioned earlier, the Yacht Master II comes in four different models, and one can choose from one of the four metal options depending on taste and needs. Steel is the lightest option out of the four, followed by the mix of gold and steel which is slightly heavier. There is also solid yellow gold which carries even more weight, and a combination of platinum and white gold.

Speaking of a sailor’s watch, it is also essential to look at its water resistance. Consisting of Rolex’s patented and signature Oyster watch case, there is no need to worry about the watch’s waterproof capability. It also comes with another Rolex’s trademark: the Oyster bracelet. Coming to the look of the Yacht Master II, it is simply the epitome of elegance and beauty. The simple and clean dial is complemented by an all-white lacquer finish, as well as Chromalight hands and appliqué hour markers in blued 18K gold. To enhance the legibility of this countdown timer watch, there is also a circle second counter at the 6 o’clock position, and a big red arrow that indicates the minute countdown. 

A fine and classic timepiece such as the Yacht Master II is not to be missed by watch lovers. Now it is time to pick your choice, and set sail with your precious watch collection.