The Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm Chronograph
Rolex introduced its first regatta chronograph in 1992 with the Yacht-Master. The watch was designed for people who enjoy sailing and other sea races. The Yacht-Master is also the first Rolex model with a programmable countdown.
Unlike Rolex’s other sports watches which have utilitarian themes, the Yacht-Master was designed for luxury and aesthetics. Its bidirectional bezel and Oyster bracelet are a perfect match for the nautical lifestyle.
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm Dial Blue Ref.16623
There’s a legend that during the 1980s, Rolex was considering radically redesigning their flagship Submariner. The re-imagined model was to be a less utilitarian, more luxurious nautically themed timepiece. It would be a watch that could be worn beneath the sea, but also under a suit.
The result was the Yacht-Master. A watch crafted from the same precious metals that adorn the Submariner, but with an opulent design that would be more at home on a polished teak deck than under water. The reference 16623 is a men’s model with a 40mm case, and made up of solid 18-karat yellow gold. Its center links are crafted from the same alloy Rolesor, which is also used for the bezel.
The Yacht-Master is equipped with a 60-minute graduated bezel that can be used to measure distance between buoys, and larger luminous markers and Mercedes hands for easy reading. The stainless steel and gold 3 piece Oyster bracelet is sturdy, resilient, and comfortable on the wrist.
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm Dial Black Ref.16623
The Yacht-Master is a sports watch that was released with the intention of being classy and luxurious, yet hardy enough to accompany you on your nautical adventures. It is equipped with exclusive functions and features, such as the programmable countdown with mechanical memory and the Ring Command Bezel.
The first significant update to the Yacht-Master came in 1996, when it was made available with a two-tone combination of stainless steel and yellow gold, called Rolesor. This was followed by another update in 1999, with the introduction of a platinum and stainless steel combination, dubbed Rolesium.
In 2005, a full-size version of the Rolesor Yacht-Master was introduced, which became known as the reference 16623. While it has since been discontinued, you can still find this version of the watch on the pre-owned market. The pristine to lightly used examples of this reference will often come at a considerable discount over what you would pay for a brand new one from an authorized dealer.
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm Dial White Ref.16623
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm is an enduring classic. It features a stainless steel and 18k yellow gold Oyster bracelet, which provides comfort and elegance, while the Oysterlock clasp ensures safety during aquatic adventures. It also has a bi-directional Rolex bezel, which adds to the watch’s functionality and aesthetics. It is powered by the Rolex Calibre 3135 automatic movement, and is water-resistant to 100 meters.
It is a luxury timepiece that is ideal for anyone who enjoys sailing and yachting, and it has an elegant design that will compliment any outfit. It is also a good choice for those who want to be fashionable, but do not necessarily need the high-precision and specialized features of the Rolex Submariner. In addition, the Yacht-Master features a special Rolex blue Parachrom hairspring that is more resistant to magnetic fields and shocks than standard oscillator springs. It is also lighter and more stable. These innovative features make the Rolex Yacht-Master a unique timepiece that is worth investing in.
The Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm Dial Red Ref.16623
Despite being a Rolex-built sports-oriented watch, the Yacht-Master line is more than just that. While it is not made for diving, it does come with screw-down crowns and case backs that make it a more durable choice than the Submariner.
Unlike the Submariner, however, it does not feature a wetsuit extension on the Oyster bracelet. This makes it more of a weekend watch that is able to withstand a splash in the water or an impromptu regatta.
While the Yacht-Master is most recognizable in the two-tone Rolesor combination of yellow gold and steel, it has also been released in solid Everose and white gold versions. This makes it easy for anyone to find a Yacht-Master that fits their style and budget. Moreover, the pre-owned market for this model is full of options with pristine to lightly used examples often selling at significant savings over retail prices. This makes the Yacht-Master an excellent choice for any sailor looking to add a touch of luxury to their wardrobe.