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Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Blue Dial Men's Luxury Watch 126622-0002

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The Watch Of The Open Seas: History Of The Rolex Yacht-Master

Instagram: @rolex

In the year 1992, Swiss watchmaker Rolex would debut a new model line at the Baselworld show that was strikingly similar to the already-popular Submariner. It featured the same 40mm Oyster case with a rotating bezel, the same chronometer-certified caliber, and the same Oyster bracelet.

Seemingly the only difference between the two was the white dial of that first Yacht-Master, a style which has never been an option on a Sub, and the inferior depth rating of 100m when compared to the Sub’s 300m.

Yet, the Yacht-Master was well-received upon launch, and with the passing of time, the yachting-inspired model has evolved and pioneered its own path within Rolex’s catalog.

Read on with us as we go back to the beginning and track the catalysts that paved the way for the most recent Yacht-Master release, the Yacht-Master 42 (226659), to become one of the hottest sports timepieces of the year.

History Of The Rolex Yacht-Master

We’ve broken down our overview of the Yacht-Master into the following segments:

• Release Of The Yacht-Master

The Submariner/Yacht-Master Theory

• Mid-Size & Ladies’ Yacht-Master
• Platinum (Rolesium) Yacht-Master

The Maxi Dial Yacht-Master

• Two-Tone Rolesor Yacht-Master

The Yacht-Master II

• Six-Digit Yacht-Master

The Oysterflex Yacht-Master

Keep scrolling to read this guide from its beginning, or use the links above to jump down to a specific point.

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The Release Of The Yacht-Master

The first Yacht-Master watch was launched in 1992 under reference number 16628. It featured a yellow gold case, a bidirectional graduated bezel, and a matching full-gold Oyster bracelet. Its dial was white with black hour indices, while at center were gold Mercedes hands, and beating inside was the 3135 movement.

Rolex ref. 16628. Instagram: @m_j_watches

Previous to the Yacht-Master’s introduction, Rolex had not released a new model line in a quarter century. So, why did they go with the Yacht-Master, a design that risked being a detractor from their existing Submariner? Let’s take a look at the inspiration.

The sport of yachting is one which demands precise timing and extreme coordination of the entire crew for optimal performance, particularly in offshore competitions.

Prototype Daytona Yacht-Master ref. 6239. Image: Christies.com

Rolex believed their waterproof and chronometer-grade timepieces to be more than qualified to handle the knocks of a regatta and keep ticking accurately. The brand is also notorious for their marketing prowess, which led them to act quickly in establishing an association with the sport.

Beginning in 1958 with their first sponsorship of a race, the relationship has endured until today, when the brand sponsors over a dozen international yachting events.

Nevertheless, it’s hard to deny that there exists a large gap between first contact in 1958 and the release of the yacht-inspired timepiece in the early ’90s. Why wasn’t the Yacht-Master released earlier on?

Well, Rolex played around with the idea of yachting chronograph early on, though it never materialized. All that’s left of these trials are an extremely limited number of Daytona ref. 6239 chronograph prototypes with a 39mm case (vs standard 36mm) and modified regatta dials.

Unfortunately, the Yacht-Master concept was scrapped and would not reappear until decades later.

When it did return, none of the previous Yacht-Master’s DNA was there. Furthermore, the 1992 Yacht-Master was bizarrely similar to the 16610 Sub of the time.

Interestingly enough, Rolex folklore tells of a time in the ’80s when the brand sought to update their Submariner . What resulted was less of an update and more of an overhaul, manifested as what we know now as the first Yacht-Master.

Apprehensive of the repercussions that making such aggressive design changes to their staple offering could bring, the brand chose instead to release the watch intended to be a new Submariner as the reborn Yacht-Master instead.

The move worked, and the new Yacht-Masters started flying off the shelves. The Yacht-Master was perceived as a more luxurious Sub, though its bidirectional bezel proved useful for on-the-fly countdowns which are critical in sailing competitions. The waterproof nature of the Oyster case further cemented the Yacht-Master as the ideal first mate.

Mid-Size & Ladies’ Yacht-Master

In 1994, just two years after the debut of the 16628, Rolex would introduce the same design but in smaller case sizes. These were:

• Ref. 68628: Yacht-Master “Mid-Size” in 35mm
• Ref. 69628: Yacht-Master Ladies’ in 29mm

This marked the first time that Rolex ever offered one of their sports models in a smaller case size; all previous instances of case size changes were increases as opposed to reductions. It has been speculated that the smaller cases were intended for the Asian market.

Yacht-Master ref. 16628. Instagram: @thewatchcentre

In the same year, Rolex also offered the same 16628 but this time with a deep blue dial. Blue dials tend to make for broadly-liked watches, and coupled with the gold case and bracelet, the new version was once again a hit.

The Platinum (Rolesium) Yacht-Master

The next update to the model line would come in 1999 with yet another home-run: the Rolesium Yacht-Master. The new watch featured a stainless steel case and bracelet with a platinum dial and platinum-insert bezel. Rolesium, a term registered by Rolex back in the ’30s for a combination of steel and platinum in a watch, was finally put to use.

The new platinum Yacht-Master ref. 16622 was not only more accessible than the previous all-gold varieties, it was also more versatile. This would lead the 16622 variety to become the face of the Yacht-Master line.

In fact, many online resources erroneously label it the first Yacht-Master ever; this should offer an idea of how emblematic it is in the watch industry.

The 16622 also presented a new dial and hand style that would mark Rolex as a whole through to the modern day. The new Yacht-Master boasted what is now recognized as the “maxi dial”.

Rolex Yacht-Master 16628 w/ maxi dial. Instagram: @kellokonttori

The maxi dial is characterized by oversized hour indices as well as larger hands at center. To the untrained eye, the difference may be difficult to spot, though experienced collectors will note the change instantly.

The maxi dial became the style of choice for all modern Rolex sports watches, though it got its start in the 1999 platinum Yacht-Master. A Submariner would first feature a maxi dial in 2003, with the release of the 50th anniversary Rolex Submariner “Kermit” (16610LV).

All versions of the Yacht-Master produced after the introduction of the maxi dial would also feature the new dial design. This included the blue, gold, and white dial versions from years past.

The Two-Tone (Rolesor) Yacht-Master

Six years after the Rolesium Yacht-Master came to be, Rolex would once more put on display their mixed-metal Rolesor style in the two-tone Yacht-Master 16623.

Yacht-Master ref. 16623. Instagram: @v.davidofftimepieces

The 2005 debuts possessed a 40mm steel case, a yellow gold bidirectional bezel, and a two-tone Oyster bracelet. As far as dials, many of the previous styles were also available like the black-on-white, though mother of pearl version were also introduced.

It was during Baselworld 2007 when Rolex would introduce the Yacht-Master’s younger and much larger sibling, the Yacht-Master II. Whereas the original Yacht-Master was very close functionally to the Sub, the Yacht-Master II was completely the opposite.

It can be said that the only overlap between the YM and the YMII is be the name, as the second iteration looks like a whole new watch. This time, though, it’s clear that the watch has been designed with the needs of yachting professionals in mind.

The first Yacht-Master II were marked by a 44mm Oyster case, an Oyster bracelet, a white dial,  and a blue Cerachrom (ceramic) Ring Command bezel. The first two references, 116688 and 116689, were made of yellow gold and white gold, respectively.

Powering the YMII was another innovation – Rolex’s in-house calibre 4161. It features the COSC-chronometer certification and 72-hour power reserve that are today’s standard, though they were industry-leading at the time. Most notable, though, was the 4161 movement’s functions.

The new caliber boasted a “ programmable countdown with mechanical memory and on-the-fly synchronization. ” Naturally, the programming of the movement required the use of the Ring Command bezel, a feature which had also never been encountered on a Rolex watch before.

In later years, Rolex would go on to release Rolesor and full-steel versions of the Yacht-Master II, both of which have been relatively successful. The Yacht-Master II has certainly earned a spot in the brand’s catalog, and is sure to stick around for next couple of decades.

The Six-Digit Yacht-Master

Yacht-Master 116622

Twenty years after it debuted as the 16628, the Yacht-Master would see in 2012 the modernization that had been sweeping Rolex’s other model families.

Aside from receiving a new six-digit reference number (116622), subtle aesthetic changes were also present, as was an outstanding new dial option – the Cobalt Blue dial.

The case was now a “super case”, which retained the 40mm diameter but was styled differently. The bezel was now completely platinum, where previous versions were made of steel with a platinum insert. The Oyster bracelet had likewise been upgraded.

A platinum bezel / platinum dial option was still part of the collection and therefore received the same upgrades. Unfortunately, this iconic “albino” look would be completely discontinued in 2017.

The subsequent and most recent significant change to the Yacht-Master family took place in 2015, when Rolex first introduced the Everose Yacht-Master 40 ref. 116655.

Rolex Everose Yacht-Master on Oysterflex bracelet

The newest iteration of the YM possessed some new features. The case was made of Everose, and the bezel now boasted a black Cerachrom insert. Securing the watch to the wrist was another Rolex first – the Oysterflex rubber ‘bracelet’.

Before the 116655, no Rolex watch had ever sported a rubber band. The brand still refers to it as a bracelet given the metal elements within the band, but these are not obvious even with the watch in the hand.

This same style of Yacht-Master would receive the next update in 2019, when Rolex introduced the Yacht-Master 42 in white gold.

What’s Next?

With the recent changes that the Yacht-Master line has had, it is clear that Rolex intends to keep this model family alive and well for years to come. Consumers are likewise responding to each new release, offering plenty of feedback with their pocketbooks.

If you’d like to read up on any of Rolex’s other model families, make sure to check out some of our extensive watch guides below:

• History Of The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
• Overview Of The Most Luxurious Pilot’s Watch: The GMT-Master
• How Did The Day-Date Become The President’s Watch?
• Review Of Rolex’s Longest Running Watch Model
• Rolex Watches That Could Become The Investment Of A Lifetime

"I have always been a fan of the Yacht-Master, but I had no idea that it didn't exist until the 1990s. Thanks for the information, and thanks for keeping it entertaining. Well done!"

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Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Ultimate Buying Guide

If you could buy a Rolex watch for yourself, which would it be? We guess most people would have a long list. However, most people wouldn’t think to choose the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 – a hidden jewel in the Rolex professional line up in a 40mm stainless steel case.

To take you back in time, Rolex Yacht-Master (YM) was in development for a while. It’s regarded as one of the most demanding watches produced by Rolex and took several years to finish. Its concept was born as early as the mid-1960s, but it wasn’t until the 1990’s that the model was officially released to the market.

With its updated styling and re-engineered mechanical movements, the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 is a unique watch that straddles style and luxury at a comparatively lower price. Below, we’ll discuss the Rolex Yacht-Master 40, and provide expert tips when buying the watch.

Rolex Yacht-Master 40: An Ultra-Modern Design

A line up of the Oyster Perpetual family, Rolex Yacht master 40 collection is a series of watches with a unique design built to withstand the elements. It was originally designed for diving enthusiasts but is refined enough to fit the daily wearer.

The Yacht-Master 40 was first introduced in the 90s. Since then, it has undergone several upgrades. One of the first products of the YM line is the ref. 16628 in 18k yellow gold. In 1999, amidst the Y2K bug, the brand introduced another line in caliber 3135 movement – the ref. 16622. Instead of an 18k yellow gold, the watch boasts stainless steel material with a platinum bezel. Back then, the watch model was touted as the “celebrity favorite” as Phil Collins, Bruce Willis, and other personalities were spotted wearing it.

Fast forward to 2012, the ref. 116622 was born. It still had the platinum dial but with some distinctive configuration, such as the shimmering effect and a glittering finish. Finally, the 126622 joined the Rolex catalog in 2019. The best thing about this watch is that it offers an Oysterflex bracelet option that allows for increased flexibility without sacrificing comfort or style.

With its evolution, the Rolex Yacht Master 40 is a stunning watch with an elegant and stylish design, perfect for any occasion. Above all, it has all of the features you would expect from a luxury watch brand like Rolex:

• The 40 mm Oyster case exemplifies solid craftsmanship and elegance.
• It comes with a sapphire crystal that protects its face from scratches.
• The model also features an automatic movement with a date display at 3 o’clock on the dial.
• The bezel is made of ceramic and titanium, which makes it incredibly strong and durable.
• Rolex Yacht-Master 40 watch comes with an Oyster Steel bracelet that is resistant to rust and corrosion.
• With a folding Oysterlock safety clasp, you can easily put on or remove it without worrying about it falling off.
• As the name implies, this watch is popular with yachtsmen because it has high water resistance and a rotating bezel.

Reasons To Buy a Rolex Yacht-Master 40

As a successful person, we know you’ll choose to grab a Rolex – specifically a YM 40 model due to its bolder look. Beyond that, there are several reasons to buy a YM 40 watch.

Signifies Status & Success

The Rolex Yacht Master 40 is a watch that says quite a bit about its wearer. Whenever you have it on your wrist, it simply shouts, “You’ve made it!” Created to stand the test of time, it represents the pinnacle of exquisite watchmaking. It’s an icon of success, power, and prestige.

No matter what you do or where you go, this watch will serve as a reminder of your accomplishments. You worked hard to get where you are. It’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor by treating yourself to one of the Yacht-Master 40 series.

Functionality

Rolex Yacht-Master 40 has always been the symbol of precision and excellent performance, thanks to its Chronograph movement. With its sleek lines, accurate timekeeping, and blistering performance, the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 is a tool watch built to last. You can trust that it keeps up with your relentless pace. It’s no wonder that this beautifully-crafted timepiece has been a favorite of professionals, businessmen, and sailors for years.

Investment Potential

Due to the brand’s longstanding history and notable name, Rolex watches are currently worth a significant amount on the vintage market, making buying a used model or original model watch a sound investment. Also, due to their high price tag, they hold value whenever you want to resell them in the future.

What To Look For When Buying a Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Watch

The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 is essentially a luxury yacht on your wrist. It’s bold, powerful, and gives you the feeling of freedom. However, there are a few things that you need to know before you purchase this hefty piece. If you take the time to check out these few tips, it will make it much easier for you to get one of these watches and enjoy the lifestyle that comes with it.

Examine the Condition of the Watch

Like most things in life, the condition affects the value of a Rolex watch. It’s especially important if you’re looking to purchase a pre-owned Rolex Yacht-Master 40. Mostly, you’ll look for one in excellent condition and priced below the high end of reasonable. However, these watches are rare and are almost impossible to find.

Nevertheless, when you buy, thoroughly check the condition of the watch, such as:

• The bezel, crystal, or bracelet should be free from deep scratches.
• There should be no stains, marks, or corrosion on the dial and markers.
• The links in the bracelet should be snug and not loose or stretched out.

Additionally, watch boxes and maintenance documentation come with new YM 40 watches. However, if a pre-owned watch doesn’t have paperwork that comes with it, the only way to ensure authenticity is to be very knowledgeable about the model. In addition, reputable sources like Bob’s Watches offer at least a year’s warranty.

Be Alert on Spotting Fakes

Yacht-Master 40 (or Rolex watches, in general) are a good business due to their quality and price. That’s why many people get the opportunity to sell imitations to make money.

With that in mind, here are tips on what to look for when trying to spot the real deal:

• The watch’s weight speaks of the quality materials used to create it. Thus, if it’s a light one, it means they’re made of low-quality materials.
• The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 is remarkable, so its second-hand movement is smooth and not choppy.
• It has a completely clear and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. A watch with a tinted or chipped crystal is probably fake.
• Genuine YM 40 watches are made of precious metals. They feature a variety of different styles, but they all have a silky-smooth finish to them. Fakes have a dull look.
• The luminous markers should be visible in the dark, and the dial should be free of scratches or imperfections.
• Ensure that the bezel is moving smoothly without catching or clicking.

Moreover, do your research and employ all the tactics you can to ensure you’re getting a genuine product. Any trace of imperfection that isn’t normal wear and tear should make you question the authenticity of the piece.

Shop from a Certified Seller

To save yourself from dealing with fake YM 40, always buy from a certified dealer. They are typically well-established businesses that have been selling fine timepieces for decades. They should be registered with their local government and have the proper tax paperwork available upon request.

A reputable watch dealer will have a professional staff, carry a large stock of new or pre-owned watches, have a warranty policy, and never be pushy or try to rush you into making a purchase. They should be familiar with the process and will keep you informed every step of the way. If you ever find yourself feeling uncomfortable or uncertain of the seller’s intentions, leave immediately.

How Much Does a Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Cost?

Rolex Yacht-Master 40 watches are a classic, timeless design that can be worn by anyone. While most people will say it’s pricey, you might be surprised to learn that they’re relatively affordable, especially compared to other Rolex watches. Depending on the model, age, and materials used, you can expect to pay between $5k and $50k for a new or used Rolex Yacht-Master 40.

Shop Our Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Collection

Without a doubt, the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 is one of the most versatile watches in the brand’s lineup. If you’re interested in buying a new or pre-owned YM 40, we’re sure that you will find the perfect one in our Rolex Yacht-Master 40 collection. We pride ourselves on our selection of high-quality, durable Men’s Rolex watches you can wear everyday.

About Paul Altieri

Paul Altieri is a vintage and pre-owned Rolex specialist, entrepreneur, and the founder and CEO of BobsWatches.com. - the largest and most trusted name in luxury watches. He is widely considered a pioneer in the industry for bringing transparency and innovation to a once-considered stagnant industry. His experience spans over 35 years and he has been published in numerous publications including Forbes, The NY Times, WatchPro, and Fortune Magazine. Paul is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the watch industry and e-commerce, and regularly engages with other professionals in the industry. He is a member of the IWJG, the AWCI and a graduate of the GIA. Alongside running the premier retailer of pre-owned Rolex watches, Paul is a prominent Rolex watch collector himself amassing one of the largest private collections of rare timepieces. In an interview with the WSJ lifestyle/fashion editor Christina Binkley, Paul opened his vault to display his extensive collection of vintage Rolex Submariners and Daytonas. Paul Altieri is a trusted and recognized authority in the watch industry with a proven track record of expertise, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

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