Rolex Yacht-Master II

The Rolex Regatta Chronograph

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is one of the most distinctive sport watches ever created by Rolex. Designed for competitive sailing, the Yacht-Master II stands apart from the rest of the Rolex collection with its bold 44 mm Oyster case, programmable regatta countdown, blue Cerachrom bezel, and commanding wrist presence.

Unlike the standard Yacht-Master, which is a refined nautical sport watch, the Yacht-Master II was built around a specific sailing function: timing the countdown before the start of a regatta. This makes it one of the most technically unique Rolex Professional watches.

At ECI Jewelers, we offer authentic Rolex Yacht-Master II watches in select references, metals, and configurations. Every watch is carefully authenticated and inspected by our in-house experts. Select Rolex watches from ECI Jewelers come with the original Rolex box. If a watch is listed as a complete set, it also includes the original Rolex papers.

Why the Rolex Yacht-Master II Is So Popular

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is popular because it is bold, technical, and unlike any other Rolex. Its large case, regatta countdown complication, and distinctive bezel design give it a personality that stands apart from the Submariner, Daytona, GMT-Master II, and standard Yacht-Master.

Collectors and buyers love the Yacht-Master II because it offers:

• A bold 44 mm Rolex Professional case

• Regatta countdown chronograph function

• Distinctive blue Cerachrom bezel

• Commanding wrist presence

• Oystersteel, two-tone, yellow gold, and white gold configurations

• Oyster bracelet design

• Strong nautical identity

• One of the most unusual Rolex complications

• Collector interest from discontinued and reintroduced references

• A luxury sport watch that feels different from more common Rolex models

The Yacht-Master II is a strong choice for buyers who want a Rolex with size, presence, and technical character.

Rolex Yacht-Master II History

The Rolex Yacht-Master II was introduced in 2007 as a professional regatta chronograph designed for sailing competition. Its key feature was a programmable countdown timer that could be synchronized with official race countdown sequences.

This made the Yacht-Master II one of Rolex’s most complicated modern sport watches. While the Daytona is Rolex’s famous racing chronograph, the Yacht-Master II was created for timing yacht races.

The model became known for its large 44 mm case, bold white dial, blue bezel, and unique mechanical programming system. Rolex discontinued the previous Yacht-Master II generation in 2024, but the collection returned in 2026 as a new-generation model with a simplified and modernized design.

Current Rolex Yacht-Master II References

The current Rolex Yacht-Master II lineup features a 44 mm Oyster case, blue Cerachrom bezel, and new-generation calibre 4162 movement.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Reference 126680

The Rolex 126680 is the current Yacht-Master II in Oystersteel. It features a 44 mm Oyster case, white dial, blue Cerachrom bezel, Oyster bracelet, Triplock crown, and calibre 4162 movement.

This reference is the most versatile current Yacht-Master II option because of its stainless steel construction and clean sport-watch look.

Why collectors love it:

• 44 mm Oystersteel case

• Blue Cerachrom bezel

• White dial

• Calibre 4162 movement

• Regatta countdown function

• Oyster bracelet

• Sporty and technical Rolex design

Rolex Yacht-Master II Reference 126688

The Rolex 126688 is the current Yacht-Master II in 18K yellow gold. It offers the same regatta countdown functionality as the Oystersteel version, but with a bold full-gold appearance.

This reference is ideal for buyers who want the Yacht-Master II’s technical sailing function with maximum luxury presence.

Why collectors love it:

• 44 mm 18K yellow gold case

• Blue Cerachrom bezel

• White dial

• Calibre 4162 movement

• Strong wrist presence

• Full precious metal Rolex sport-watch design

Discontinued Rolex Yacht-Master II References

Discontinued Yacht-Master II references remain popular in the pre-owned market. These models represent the first major generation of the Yacht-Master II and include Oystersteel, two-tone, yellow gold, and white gold configurations.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Reference 116680

The Rolex 116680 is the discontinued Oystersteel Yacht-Master II. It features a 44 mm stainless steel case, white dial, blue Cerachrom bezel, Oyster bracelet, and regatta countdown function.

This is one of the most popular pre-owned Yacht-Master II references because it offers the bold design in the most versatile metal.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Reference 116681

The Rolex 116681 is the two-tone Everose Rolesor Yacht-Master II. It combines stainless steel with 18K Everose gold, giving the watch a warm and luxurious appearance.

This reference is popular with buyers who want the Yacht-Master II’s large sport-watch presence with a more elevated two-tone look.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Reference 116688

The Rolex 116688 is the discontinued 18K yellow gold Yacht-Master II. It is one of the boldest versions of the collection, pairing the large 44 mm case with full yellow gold construction.

This reference is ideal for buyers who want maximum wrist presence and luxury.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Reference 116689

The Rolex 116689 is the discontinued white gold and platinum Yacht-Master II. It combines 18K white gold with platinum details, creating a cooler and more understated precious metal version of the model.

This reference is especially appealing to collectors who want a rare and luxurious Yacht-Master II with a more discreet tone.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Specifications

The Rolex Yacht-Master II was designed around its regatta countdown complication and bold nautical sport-watch identity.

Model: Rolex Yacht-Master II
Case Size: 44 mm
Case: Rolex Oyster case
Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
Water Resistance: 100 meters / 330 feet
Crown: Triplock screw-down crown
Bezel: Bidirectional rotatable Ring Command bezel
Bezel Insert: Blue Cerachrom ceramic on current models
Current Movement: Rolex calibre 4162
Previous Movement: Rolex calibre 4161 on many discontinued references
Bracelet: Oyster bracelet
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, programmable regatta countdown, mechanical memory, flyback synchronization, stop-seconds

The Regatta Countdown Function

The Yacht-Master II was created for one of the most important moments in competitive sailing: the countdown before the start of a race.

The regatta countdown allows the wearer to time the minutes leading up to the start of a yacht race. The system can be programmed and synchronized, making it highly specific compared to a standard chronograph.

This function makes the Yacht-Master II one of Rolex’s most unusual modern watches. It is not simply a large sport watch. It is a mechanical tool designed for a very specific sailing purpose.

The Ring Command Bezel

One of the most important technical features of the Yacht-Master II is the Ring Command bezel. This bezel is not just decorative. It interacts with the movement and allows the wearer to set the programmable countdown function.

This system helps separate the Yacht-Master II from other Rolex Professional models. While the Submariner bezel measures dive time and the GMT-Master II bezel tracks time zones, the Yacht-Master II bezel helps operate the regatta countdown complication.

Materials

The Yacht-Master II has been produced in several material configurations.

Material options include:

• Oystersteel

• 18K yellow gold

• Everose Rolesor, combining Oystersteel and 18K Everose gold

• 18K white gold with platinum details

• Blue Cerachrom ceramic bezel

• Oyster bracelet

The Oystersteel version is the most versatile. The two-tone Everose Rolesor version adds warmth and luxury. The yellow gold version is bold and unmistakable. The white gold and platinum version is more understated but highly collectible.

Movement

The current Rolex Yacht-Master II uses the calibre 4162, a self-winding mechanical regatta chronograph movement developed by Rolex.

Movement highlights include:

• Automatic self-winding mechanical movement

• Regatta countdown function

• Programmable countdown with mechanical memory

• Synchronization function

• Stop-seconds for precise time setting

• Rolex Superlative Chronometer precision

• Designed specifically for the Yacht-Master II

Previous-generation Yacht-Master II models used the calibre 4161. Earlier examples of the model are also connected to the calibre 4160 movement generation, depending on production era.

Yacht-Master II vs. Yacht-Master

The Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II may sound similar, but they are very different watches.

Rolex Yacht-Master

The Yacht-Master is a refined nautical sport watch. It is available in sizes such as 37 mm, 40 mm, and 42 mm. It features a date display and a 60-minute bidirectional bezel, but it does not have a regatta countdown chronograph.

Rolex Yacht-Master II

The Yacht-Master II is a larger 44 mm regatta chronograph. It is more technical, more complex, and much bolder on the wrist.

The Yacht-Master is better for buyers who want a refined everyday sport watch. The Yacht-Master II is better for buyers who want a large, technical, and highly distinctive Rolex.

Yacht-Master II vs. Daytona

The Yacht-Master II and Daytona are both Rolex chronographs, but they serve different purposes.

Rolex Daytona

The Daytona is a racing chronograph designed around motorsport timing and speed measurement. It has a 40 mm case and is one of the most collectible Rolex watches in the world.

Rolex Yacht-Master II

The Yacht-Master II is a sailing chronograph designed around regatta countdown timing. It has a larger 44 mm case and a more specialized complication.

The Daytona is more compact and collectible across a wider buyer base. The Yacht-Master II is larger, more specialized, and more unusual.

Size and Fit

The Rolex Yacht-Master II has a 44 mm case, making it one of the largest Rolex watches. It has strong wrist presence and is ideal for buyers who prefer bigger sport watches.

The Yacht-Master II is best suited for:

• Larger wrists

• Buyers who like bold Rolex watches

• Collectors who want something different

• Fans of nautical or sailing-inspired design

• Buyers who prefer strong visual presence

• Customers who want a technical Rolex complication

Because of its size, buyers should consider trying it on in person when possible.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Price

Rolex Yacht-Master II prices vary based on reference, material, year, condition, box, papers, bracelet condition, and market demand.

Approximate pre-owned market ranges may include:

• Oystersteel Yacht-Master II models: $17,000 to $25,000+

• Two-tone Everose Rolesor Yacht-Master II models: $20,000 to $32,000+

• Yellow gold Yacht-Master II models: $35,000 to $60,000+

• White gold and platinum Yacht-Master II models: $35,000 to $60,000+

• Current-generation 126680 and 126688 models: Pricing can vary depending on availability and market demand

Prices change based on condition, availability, set completeness, and collector interest. For the most accurate pricing, browse current ECI Jewelers inventory or contact our team directly.

Is the Rolex Yacht-Master II a Good Investment?

The Yacht-Master II is one of Rolex’s most distinctive and specialized sport watches. Its collector appeal is different from models like the Submariner, Daytona, or GMT-Master II because it has a larger case and a more specific regatta function.

Factors that can affect Yacht-Master II value include:

• Reference number

• Material

• Production year

• Condition

• Box and papers

• Bracelet condition

• Movement generation

• Discontinued or current-production status

• Market demand

• Overall collector interest

No watch purchase is guaranteed to increase in value, but the Yacht-Master II can be appealing to collectors who want a Rolex with a unique complication and bold design.

Is the Rolex Yacht-Master II Good for Daily Wear?

Yes, the Yacht-Master II can be worn daily by buyers who enjoy larger watches. It has a durable Oyster case, Oyster bracelet, 100 meters of water resistance, and strong Rolex construction.

However, because of its 44 mm case, it wears larger than many other Rolex models. Buyers who prefer smaller or more understated watches may prefer a Yacht-Master 40, Submariner, GMT-Master II, or Daytona.

Is the Rolex Yacht-Master II a Good First Rolex?

The Yacht-Master II can be a great first Rolex for someone who wants a bold and uncommon watch. It is not the typical first Rolex choice, but that is part of its appeal.

It is a strong first Rolex for buyers who want:

• A large 44 mm case

• A technical Rolex complication

• A sailing-inspired design

• A watch that stands out

• A Rolex that feels different from the Submariner or Datejust

• A luxury sport watch with strong wrist presence

For buyers who want a more traditional first Rolex, the Datejust, Submariner, GMT-Master II, or Oyster Perpetual may be more versatile.

Why Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex Yacht-Master II?

Buying a pre-owned Rolex Yacht-Master II gives customers access to discontinued references, different metal combinations, full sets, and models that may be difficult to find new.

Pre-owned Yacht-Master II watches may include Oystersteel 116680 models, two-tone 116681 models, yellow gold 116688 models, white gold and platinum 116689 models, and current-generation 126680 or 126688 references depending on availability.

At ECI Jewelers, every pre-owned Rolex Yacht-Master II is inspected for authenticity, condition, and quality before being offered for sale.

Expert Opinion

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is one of the boldest and most technically unusual watches in the Rolex Professional collection. Its regatta countdown function, Ring Command bezel, 44 mm case, and nautical identity make it a true specialist piece. It may not be as traditional as the Submariner or as widely collected as the Daytona, but for the right buyer, the Yacht-Master II offers something rare in the Rolex world: a large, technical, and unmistakably different sport watch.

Why Choose ECI Jewelers

At ECI Jewelers, we offer a curated selection of Rolex Yacht-Master II watches in select references, metals, and configurations. Every watch is thoroughly authenticated, inspected, and prepared to meet high standards of quality.

When you shop with ECI Jewelers, you receive:

• 100% authentic Rolex watches

• Original Rolex box included with every watch

• Original Rolex papers included when listed as a complete set

• Free insured shipping

• Financing options available

• Transparent pricing

• Expert guidance

• NYC Diamond District showroom service

• Help with buying, selling, trading, and sourcing Rolex watches

We started in New Jersey and have been serving clients from New York City since 2018.

Sell Your Rolex Yacht-Master II

If you are ready to sell or trade your Rolex Yacht-Master II, ECI Jewelers offers competitive market valuations and a seamless selling experience.

Our experts evaluate your watch based on current market demand, condition, reference number, metal type, bracelet condition, year, box, papers, and overall desirability. Whether you are upgrading your collection or selling a Yacht-Master II you no longer wear, we make the process fast, transparent, and stress-free.

You can contact ECI Jewelers to receive an offer or visit our NYC showroom for an in-person evaluation.

Shop Rolex Yacht-Master II Watches at ECI Jewelers

ECI Jewelers offers a curated selection of authentic Rolex Yacht-Master II watches, including Oystersteel, two-tone Everose Rolesor, yellow gold, white gold and platinum, discontinued references, current-generation models, and complete set watches depending on availability.

Whether you are searching for a Yacht-Master II 116680, 116681, 116688, 116689, 126680, 126688, or another configuration, our team can help you find the right watch.

Browse our Rolex Yacht-Master II collection online or visit our NYC showroom to view select watches in person.

Visit Our NYC Showroom

ECI Jewelers is located in New York City’s Diamond District. Visit our showroom to view select Rolex Yacht-Master II watches in person, compare references, and speak with our team before purchasing.

ECI Jewelers
37 W 47th St, Suite 1301
New York, NY 10036

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rolex Yacht-Master II?

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is a large 44 mm Rolex regatta chronograph designed for competitive sailing. It features a programmable countdown function and Ring Command bezel.

Is the Rolex Yacht-Master II discontinued?

Rolex discontinued the previous Yacht-Master II generation in 2024, but the model returned in 2026 as a new-generation Yacht-Master II with references such as 126680 and 126688.

What size is the Rolex Yacht-Master II?

The Rolex Yacht-Master II has a 44 mm Oyster case.

What movement is inside the Rolex Yacht-Master II?

The current Yacht-Master II uses the Rolex calibre 4162. Previous-generation Yacht-Master II references commonly used the calibre 4161.

What is the regatta countdown function?

The regatta countdown function is designed to time the minutes before the start of a yacht race. It can be programmed and synchronized for sailing competition timing.

What is the Ring Command bezel?

The Ring Command bezel is a functional bezel that interacts with the movement and helps set the Yacht-Master II’s programmable countdown system.

Is the Rolex Yacht-Master II waterproof?

Modern Rolex Yacht-Master II models are water resistant to 100 meters / 330 feet.

What are popular Rolex Yacht-Master II references?

Popular references include 126680, 126688, 116680, 116681, 116688, and 116689.

What is the difference between Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II?

The Yacht-Master is a refined nautical sport watch with a date and 60-minute bezel. The Yacht-Master II is a larger 44 mm regatta chronograph with a programmable countdown complication.

Is the Rolex Yacht-Master II good for daily wear?

Yes, it can be worn daily if you like larger watches. Its 44 mm case gives it more wrist presence than many other Rolex models.

Is the Rolex Yacht-Master II a good investment?

The Yacht-Master II has collector appeal because of its unique complication, bold size, and unusual place in the Rolex lineup. Value depends on reference, condition, material, box, papers, and market demand.

How much does a Rolex Yacht-Master II cost?

Pricing depends on reference, material, year, condition, box, papers, and market demand. Pre-owned Yacht-Master II models can range from Oystersteel examples to higher-value yellow gold, white gold, and platinum configurations.

Do your Rolex Yacht-Master II watches come with the original box?

Yes. All Rolex watches sold by ECI Jewelers come with the original Rolex box. If the watch is listed as a complete set, it also includes the original Rolex papers.

Do you offer free insured shipping?

Yes. ECI Jewelers offers free insured shipping on eligible online orders.

Can I finance a Rolex Yacht-Master II?

Yes. Financing options are available for qualified customers at checkout.

Can I sell or trade my Rolex Yacht-Master II?

Yes. ECI Jewelers buys and accepts trades on select Rolex Yacht-Master II watches. Contact our team for a market-based evaluation.