Rolex Yacht-Master

ROLEX YACHT-MASTER

While Rolex rarely unveils entirely new models, it’s never out of the question—and when it does, it sends ripples through the watch world. That’s exactly what happened in 1992 with the debut of the Yacht-Master, which marked Rolex’s first all-new release since the launch of the Sea-Dweller in 1967—a full 25 years earlier.

Rolex has maintained an enduring relationship with the world of sailing since its early years, sponsoring prestigious yacht races and sailing events for over 70 years. Among the most notable are the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, the Rolex Fastnet Race, and the Giraglia Rolex Cup. The brand also serves as the Official Timepiece and Title Partner of the SailGP Championship. Given this legacy, it was only fitting that Rolex would create a timepiece tailored to the needs of sailors—one that showcases their shared commitment to excellence and high performance.

SailGP and Rolex Announce Title Partnership – November 21, 2024

Enter the Yacht-Master—a watch that seamlessly combines elegance with precision. Its rotatable, etched 60-minute graduated bezel allows for easy tracking of time intervals, such as the duration between race markers. The Chromalight display ensures clear legibility in any condition, including low-light or nighttime settings. Available in 37mm, 40mm, and 42mm case sizes, the Yacht-Master features a Triplock winding crown and is waterproof to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet).

Rolex Chromalight Display

First released under Reference 16628, the Yacht-Master was introduced as a more luxurious version of the Submariner. While the Submariner was built for deep-sea diving, the Yacht-Master was designed for life above the water—perfect for the deck rather than the depths. It quickly gained popularity among collectors and enthusiasts, admired for its blend of exceptional durability and refined design.

Rolex Yacht-Master 16628

The Yacht-Master went on to receive several updates and additions over the years:

In 1994, Rolex introduced a 35mm version—Reference 69628—targeted toward the Asian market, particularly men with smaller wrists. That same year, the brand also released a 29mm women’s model under the same reference number.

Rolex Yacht-Master 69628 29mm

Five years later, at the 1999 Basel Fair in Switzerland, Rolex unveiled a 40mm stainless steel and platinum version, known as the Rolesium, with Reference 16622.

Rolex Yacht-Master 16622

In 2005, the line expanded again with a 40mm stainless steel and yellow gold version—referred to as the Rolesor—under Reference 16623.

Rolex Yacht-Master 16623

Then, in 2015, Rolex presented Reference 116655, the first Yacht-Master crafted in rose gold, which also introduced the option of the Oysterflex bracelet.

Rolex Yacht-Master 116655

Eventually, Rolex discontinued the two-tone yellow gold version in 2016 and rolled out a two-tone rose gold version—Reference 116621—in its place.

Rolex Yacht-Master 116621

The final addition to the line came with Reference 226659, the first Yacht-Master made in white gold. 

Rolex Yacht-Master 116621

More than three decades after its debut, the Yacht-Master stands as a testament to Rolex’s skill in blending functionality with sophistication. Its sleek design has built a devoted following and firmly secured its place among the world’s premier luxury timepieces. As one of Rolex’s most celebrated models, the Yacht-Master offers a wide range of variations to suit virtually every style and wrist. Whether worn on the open sea or in the city, it continues to embody the spirit of sailing and the refined heritage of the brand—making it not just a tool for sailors, but a timeless icon within the Rolex collection.

We are excited to offer a variety of Rolex Yacht-Master models currently in stock:
Rolex - Unworn Two Tone Rose Gold Yacht-Master 40mm 126621 Chocolate Dial

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-yacht-master-126621-chocolate-dial?_pos=19&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Two Tone Rose Gold Yacht-Master 40mm 126621 Black Dial

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/copy-of-rolex-unworn-yacht-master-126621-black-dial?_pos=18&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Yacht-Master 40mm 126622 Blue Dial

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-yacht-master-126622-blue-dial?_pos=11&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Yacht-Master 40mm 126622 Rhodium Dial

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-yacht-master-126622-rhodium-dial?_pos=12&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Rose Gold Yacht-Master 40mm 126655

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-yacht-master-126655?_pos=10&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Rose Gold Yacht-Master 40mm 126655 Diamond Dial

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-yacht-master-126655-diamond-dial?_pos=16&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Titanium Yacht-Master 42mm 226627

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-titanium-yacht-master-42mm-226627?_pos=3&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Yellow Gold Yacht-Master 42mm 226658

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-yacht-master-226658?_pos=8&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Two Tone Rose Gold Yacht-Master 37mm 268621 Chocolate Dial

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-yacht-master-268621-chocolate-dial?_pos=20&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Yacht-Master 37mm 268622 Rhodium Dial

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-yacht-master-268622-rhodium-dial?_pos=9&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Rose Gold Yacht-Master 37mm 268655

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-yacht-master-268655?_pos=7&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Unworn Rose Gold Yacht-Master 37mm 268655 Diamond Dial

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-unworn-rose-gold-yacht-master-37mm-268655-diamond-dial?_pos=17&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Pre-owned Yacht-Master 40mm 126622 Blue Dial

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-pre-owned-yacht-master-40mm-126622-blue-dial-1?_pos=14&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Pre-owned Yacht-Master 40mm 126622 Rhodium Dial

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-pre-owned-yacht-master-40mm-126622-rhodium-dial-1?_pos=13&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Pre-owned Rose Gold Yacht-Master 40mm 126655

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-pre-owned-rose-gold-yacht-master-40mm-126655?_pos=15&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r

Rolex - Pre-owned Yacht-Master 37mm Rhodium Dial 268622

https://www.davidandsonstimepieces.com/products/rolex-pre-owned-yacht-master-37mm-rhodium-dial-268622?_pos=2&_sid=86153300d&_ss=r