Refer to Rolex’s original professional tool watches, reference no. 116621 for the name “Yacht-Master” in sports red. The mesmerizing sun-finish of the glossy bezel of the brown dial mirror creates a cohesive design that is worthy of the name of the famous Yacht-Master. Notably, the Yacht-Master was the first Rolex sports watch to feature the brand’s modern Maxi dial, which later appeared on the beloved Kermit Submariner 16610LV, and then the rest of the six-digit series of replica Rolex watches.
Rolex currently produces the Yacht-Master 40 with both a three-link Oyster and a rubber Oysterflex bracelet. However, no. 116621 provides only one Oyster bracelet, and the Oysterflex bracelet remains as an all-gold reference. Solid end links, a sturdy mechanical clasp, and solid center links in Everose gold give the bracelet a considerable weight on the wrist, while reflecting the enhanced two-tone style of the case, making this edition of the Yacht-Master an intriguing watch to wear. The clasp also includes Rolex’s convenient Easylink extension, which allows users to increase or decrease the length of the 5 mm bracelet without using the tool, allowing one’s wrist to fluctuate in a perfect fit throughout the day.
Some people think the Rolex Yacht-Master is a fancier version of the iconic Submariner diving watch. It features a similar overall design, with a 60-minute rotating time bezel, a 40 mm diameter case, and a motion luminescent display dial that completes the same Mercedes hand. However, the Yacht-Master differs from the Submariner in that it is more luxurious in that it adds a sandblasted bezel, which is made entirely of pure gold or platinum, with more elaborate, curved lugs.
Although the Yacht-Master and Submarine look similar and both have Rolex triple lock winding crowns, the two watches offer markedly different water resistance ratings. Since it was not designed for scuba diving, the Rolex Yacht-Master did not offer the same water resistance as the Submarine, which has a depth of 300 meters compared to the official depth level of 100 meters.
Additionally, the rotating bezel on the Yacht-Master moves bidirectionally (rather than being unidirectional) and is always crafted from precious metals. Additionally, the Yacht-Master’s bezel features raised and polished graduations against its sandblasted surface, while the Submariner’s bezel exclusively moves unidirectionally (on modern watches) and features an insert with either printed or engraved numerals.
Moreover, the rotating bezel on the Yacht-Master moves bidirectionally (rather than being unidirectional) and is always made of precious metals. In addition, the Yacht-master’s bezel features raised and polished scales on the sand-blown surface, while the bezel of the Submarine master table moves completely in one direction (on a modern watch) and features embedded printed or engraved figures.
According to legend, the fake Rolex Yacht-Master’s design was originally developed as a Submarine that embraced a more luxurious and refined overall aesthetic. The actual design of the Yacht-Master was reportedly completed years before it was released, but Rolex decided it was too aesthetically deviated and sat on it for years before it was released under its own model name in 1992.
The Rolex Yacht-Master ref. 116621 is no longer in production. The model was discontinued at the world’s fair in Baselworld 2019 last year, to be replaced by the current Everose Rolesor ref. 126621, with a new Caliber 3235 movement. If you are interested in adding references. To your watch box, your best choice is to buy used Rolex market, where examples, under good conditions, are still relatively feasible.
Due to the use of the precious metal and the association with the Rolex brand itself, Yacht-Master 116621 insists its value is quite good. In addition, its Everose Rolesor construction sets it apart from a variety of other two-tone Rolex replica watches made over the years, which feature stainless steel and a more traditional gold color scheme.
