Want to feel like you own a yacht, but skip the hefty price tag? The Rolex Yacht-Master is the watch for you! While that new yacht smell might not be included, this luxury watch adds a touch of elegance to the open seas. Read on to learn more about this timepiece crafted for smooth sailing.
About the Rolex Yacht-Masters
Dubbed “The Watch of the Opens Seas” by Rolex, The Yacht-Master collection draws inspiration from the world of sailing. Its’ waterproof and durable features make it the perfect watch for the rugged open-sea lifestyle.
The second model, The Yacht-Master II, is a regatta timer built for competitive sailing — whether you’re timing a yacht race or your kid’s laps for track, this is the watch you want on your wrist!
History of the Yacht-Master
Since Rolex was a pioneer in the world of water-proof watches, it only makes sense that they’d align with the New York Yacht Club in 1958. Rolex has presented many races for the NYYC since their alliances’ inception, including the Invitational Cup of 2009.
Adding to this rich history is Francis Chichester — a British navigator, businessman and pioneering aviator. He was the first and fastest to sail around the globe single-handedly in his yacht, Gipsy Moth IV. He circumnavigated the globe with a Rolex on his wrist — it was able to withstand the harsh conditions along the nine month voyage.
Rolex debuted the first of the Yacht-Master collection in 1992 as an “ultra-luxury” watch built for the open seas. While able to withstand harsh conditions, it was more for show. That’s why Rolex debuted the Yacht-Master II in 2007 as a timepiece designed to time professional regattas.
Key Features of the Yacht-Master
Rolex makes both versions in a variety of metals/materials. In fact, it’s the only collection that features Rolex’s signature Rolesium (a combination of Oystersteel and platinum). As far as dials go, the Yacht-Master has a typical Rolex design: illuminated hour-markers, Mercedes hands, and a date window at 3 o’clock. According to Rolex, the bezel is a functional bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel made of precious materials.
When it comes to function, the two models differ greatly. The Yacht-Master is a time and date watch while the Yacht-Master II is a regatta chronograph.
The Yacht-Master in Pop Culture
As with every Rolex model, many celebrities dawn the Yacht-Master proudly. Among some of the famous names are Mark Wahlberg, Roger Federer, David Beckham, and Conor McGregor.
How to Spot a Fake Yacht-Master
As with every Rolex model, legitimate Yacht-Masters have clear, concise dial-printing. If any of those details look off (such as varying text, leaking ink) chances are it’s a fake. Additionally, the adjustable countdown timer on the Yacht-Master II is so detailed and well-designed that it’s difficult to replicate. Chances are a counterfeiter won’t be perfectly duplicating that mechanism.
While there are tell-tale signs of fake Rolexes, counterfeiters are getting better at fooling the naked eye. Sometimes, the best way to make sure a Rolex is authentic is to have an expert inspect it. Our luxury watch experts at Dallas Gold & Silver Exchange have decades of experience and can spot the Rolex from the “Faux-lex” in a sweeping second. If you’ve purchased a Rolex and think it’s counterfeit, we’ll check it for you free of charge!
English 
Español de México