Rolex Yacht-Master II Bordeaux Dial

The Rolex Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II may share a similar name, but they are completely different watches designed for distinct purposes. Below is a detailed comparison of the key differences between these two iconic Rolex timepieces.

1. Purpose & Functionality

Yacht-Master: A luxury sports watch inspired by the world of sailing, designed for casual and elegant wear. It offers bidirectional timing bezels but lacks specialized sailing functions.

Yacht-Master II: A regatta timer built for professional sailors, featuring a programmable countdown timer and Ring Command Bezel for regatta racing.

Key Difference: The Yacht-Master is a stylish nautical watch, while the Yacht-Master II is a functional regatta timer for professional racing.

2. Size & Case Options

Yacht-Master: Available in 37mm, 40mm, and 42mm case sizes, catering to various wrist sizes and styles.

Yacht-Master II: A larger watch, only available in 44mm, making it one of Rolex’s biggest timepieces.

Key Difference: The Yacht-Master is smaller and more versatile, while the Yacht-Master II is bulkier and more specialized.

3. Bezel & Functionality

Yacht-Master: Features a bidirectional rotating bezel with raised 60-minute graduations for basic timing purposes.

Yacht-Master II: Features a Ring Command Bezel that interacts with the movement to control its programmable countdown timer with mechanical memory, ideal for regatta starts.

Key Difference: The Yacht-Master bezel is decorative and functional for general timing, while the Yacht-Master II bezel is a complex control mechanism for regatta races.

4. Movement & Complications

Yacht-Master: Powered by Caliber 3235 (40mm & 42mm) and Caliber 2236 (37mm), offering time and date functions with a 70-hour power reserve.

Yacht-Master II: Uses Caliber 4161, featuring a programmable countdown timer with flyback/reset functions and a mechanical memory, a unique complication in Rolex watches.

Key Difference: The Yacht-Master is a standard automatic watch with date function, while the Yacht-Master II features a regatta countdown complication for sailing competitions.

5. Dial & Legibility

Yacht-Master: Features a clean, symmetrical dial with Chromalight lume, offering a luxurious yet sporty aesthetic.

Yacht-Master II: Features a busy dial with a dedicated regatta countdown subdial, bold Arabic numerals, and a red chronograph hand for enhanced readability during races.

Key Difference: The Yacht-Master has a simpler, more elegant dial, while the Yacht-Master II is designed for maximum readability and racing functionality.

6. Bracelet Options

Yacht-Master: Available with Oyster bracelet or Oysterflex rubber strap for added versatility.

Yacht-Master II: Only available with a solid Oyster bracelet, reinforcing its sporty, tool-watch nature.

Key Difference: The Yacht-Master offers more bracelet choices, while the Yacht-Master II is strictly fitted with the robust Oyster bracelet.

7. Water Resistance & Durability

Yacht-Master: Water-resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet).

Yacht-Master II: Also 100 meters water-resistant, despite being a professional sailing watch.

Key Difference: Both models offer identical water resistance, meaning they are not true dive watches like the Submariner.

8. Price & Market Position

Yacht-Master: More affordable and versatile, positioned as a luxury lifestyle watch with a nautical theme.

Yacht-Master II: More expensive due to its complication, marketed as a specialized regatta chronograph.

Key Difference: The Yacht-Master is a premium but accessible sports watch, while the Yacht-Master II is a high-end tool watch with a niche audience.

Which One Should You Choose?

Buy the Yacht-Master if: You want a luxurious, versatile sports watch with a nautical aesthetic, great for both casual and formal wear.

Buy the Yacht-Master II if: You are passionate about sailing and regattas, or if you want an advanced Rolex chronograph with a unique complication.