Among Rolex watches, the “II” designation or second edition usually signals an evolution of the existing model. This isn’t the case with the Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II. Even though both timepieces were made for the sailing community, the two watches are actually quite different.

Let’s dive into the history of the Yacht Master II and find out what the differences are!

The Rolex Yacht-Master II was unveiled in 2007. This iconic sports watch is the next generation of the original Yacht Master that was released in 1992. The first Yacht-Master II models 116688 (Yellow Gold) and 116689 (White Gold) were released in 2010. In 2011, Rolex introduced a new model (116681), which was made from steel and everose gold. In 2013, at Baselworld the watch was available for the first time in 904L steel, the model 116680, fitted with a Cerachrom bezel insert in blue ceramic. Yacht-Master II originally used the 4160 movement but with the introduction of the model 116680 in 2013, the movement was updated to the 4161 movement specifically designed for the Yacht-Master II.

Alright, now that you know a little bit about the history of this watch, let’s take a look at the differences.

Aesthetic

Usually, when it comes to “II” designations in other Rolex watches, it is quite difficult to notice a big aesthetic difference, with Yacht Master II these are easily noticeable.

First thing you might notice is the size. The original Yacht-Master was the first in the professional range of Rolex watches that was available in 3 different sizes, 40mm, 35mm and 29mm. Later these sizes were discontinued, leaving just a 40mm and a 37mm case. The Yacht-Master II only comes with a 44mm case diameter, which makes it one of the largest Rolex watches available.

When it comes to design, the original Yacht-Master often gets described as a more luxurious looking Submariner. The Yacht-Master II, on the other hand, has got its look from its specialized functions. This timepiece is bright blue, has a Cherachrom insert bezel with large scale numbers 0-10 as well as the Yacht Master II name. On the dial you can find a smaller version of this countdown. These two features work together to allow the wearer to select a countdown interval of one to ten minutes.

Movement and complications

The original Yacht Master was truly designed for those who want the ruggedly elegant look of the Rolex sport watches, without the fuss of too many highly-specialized functions. Thus, the function of the Yacht-Master is pretty straightforward. It has a traditional 3-hand display, 60 minute graduated bezel and 100m water resistance. The flatter case back makes this watch perfect for daily wear, as it wears comfortably. It runs on the same movement as the latest Submariner, Caliber 3135.

On the other hand, Yacht-Master II was created as a professional regatta watch that can also be used as a chronograph. At the center of the regatta function is the ring command bezel. The Ring command bezel works in conjunction with the movement. This is quite special as usually watch bezels are used separately from the rest of the watch. This function is really amazing, because it allows the wearer to accurately sync the watch with the starting sequence of a yacht race.

When it comes to movement, the Yacht-Master II was originally equipped with the 4160 caliber, based on the movement of Rolex Daytona. However, this was updated in 2013, when Rolex introduced the caliber 4161, especially designed for the Rolex Yacht-Master II.

So, now you know that despite the similar names, the Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II are quite different. But it is easy to say that both are amazing timepieces with incredible design and functionality.

Which one would you choose? Take a look at our models here