yacht master good investment

A guide to the Rolex Yacht-Master

Over the years, the Rolex Yacht-Master watch has grown significantly, becoming one of the most diverse ranges of Rolex watch available.

The evolution of the luxury brand’s classic sports watch has extended beyond imaginable parallels, offering the avid collector various choices in bracelet style, bezel material and case size over three entire decades. As such, the Yacht-Master continues to prove itself a valuable and dependable mainstay within the manufacturer’s current catalogue, despite many models having become discontinued over the years. To define the Yacht-Master by Rolex, one would categorize it as a luxury sports watch, yet the collection can be broken down into two watches that remain incredibly similar to one another, despite a slightly different name.

. One is the Yacht-Master - a watch that can be considered the original sports model designed by Rolex, intended for setting sail with and enjoying whilst sailing aboard a luxury yacht. The Yacht-Master II, however, is designed for more precise functionality. Equipped with all the technology to enable an individual to record regatta timings, this younger distinction of the model is classified as a watch for racing a yacht as opposed to enjoying alongside a ride on one.

Whether wearing a Rolex Yacht-Master for aesthetical or practical reasons, however, its sleek looks and refined qualities are characteristics that are sought after far and wide amongst Rolex fans. Like with every Rolex, however, there are some factors to research and consider before investing in your very first Yacht-Master and these include pricing, history and features amongst many others.

What are the differences between the Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II?

To break down the key differences between the Rolex Yacht-Master and the Rolex Yacht-Master II, here are a few quick facts. The Yacht-Master is available in sizes of 29mm, 35mm, 37mm, 40mm and 42mm and is manufactured in Rolesium, Everose Rolesor, yellow gold Rolesor, solid 18ct yellow gold, solid 18ct white gold and 18ct Everose gold. The watch offers running hours, minutes and seconds and features a date function at 3 o’clock. A bidirectional rotating bezel has a 60-minute scale upon its surface and each model promises a water resistance of 100 meters. The models are offered on an Oyster bracelet or Oysterflex bracelet. The Rolex Yacht-Master II, however, is available in a 44mm size and is offered in a solid stainless steel version, as well as Everose Rolesor, 18ct yellow gold and 18ct white gold. Function-wise, the models offer running seconds with an adjustable countdown timer with a mechanical memory. The watch also features a ring command bezel, along with 100-meter water resistance and is fitted on an Oyster bracelet.

A brief history of the Rolex Yacht-Master watch collection

A brief history of both the Rolex Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II watches is beneficial before investing in a model from this range. Though not introduced until 1992, the Rolex Yacht-Master watch had foundations secured for its release much earlier than that. The brand had partnered with the New York Yacht Club back in 1958, laying down the roots to its heritage in sailing long before the iconic sports watch was conceptualized. By this point, Rolex had ready developed its first waterproof watch thanks to the 1926 Oyster case.

In 1966, the Gipsy Moth IV yacht was sailed 29,600 miles around the world by Francis Chichester, who wore a Rolex on his wrist amongst very few other measuring tools including a sextant and nautical chart. Thanks to the Rolex Oyster Perpetual watch he wore during his journey, time could be tracked amongst rough conditions for an entire 226 days whilst at sea. It put Rolex officially on the radar of seafarers as a manufacturer capable of producing robust and reliable tools for facing the challenging conditions experienced at sea.

In 1992 the world’s first official Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master was released and was crafted entirely from 18ct yellow gold, cementing its status as a luxury tool watch. Over the next 15 years, Rolex would experiment with various case materials until in 2007, the first Yacht-Master II was born. Sportsmen could utilize this tool watch whilst regatta racing – its chronograph features stood out clearly and legibly across the surface of the dial. A programmable countdown timer enabled the individual to measure the countdown time before a race commences for improved precision and a better start to the competition. With flyback and fly-forward functionality, synchronization with the Race Committee was a breeze.

Current Popular Rolex Yacht-Master models

As mentioned, it is the Yacht-Master’s affinity with the sea and its diverse range of styles and case materials that make this collection so widely sought-after within the Rolex watch stratosphere. Paired with cutting-edge technology and primed for yacht race competing, the series has much to offer any luxury sports watch fan. Here are just a few Rolex Yacht-Master watches that have proven their popularity as both a tool and an investment since their release.

Rolex Yacht-Master ref 126622

Rolex Yacht-Master watches made from Rolesium make for an interesting talking point to wear with elegant attire and often make for sophisticated gifts to mark an anniversary or wedding day, especially for those who prefer their wristwatches to exude a very classic look. That said, Rolex packs a lot of modern technology into the design of a Yacht-Master watch such as the model 1266, which not only offers a very compact and manageable case size for those with a slender wrist but has also been forged from a material that is exclusive to the Yacht-Master watch range itself. Stainless Steel and platinum are materials chosen for their robust, corrosion-resistant and luxurious properties, whilst the three-link design of the oyster bracelet creates a timeless look whether paired with elegant or casual attire. Polished middle links and brushed outer links create a unique look against the wrist, especially when you consider that these finishes differ from those seen in the Rolex Submariner and Sea-Dweller models, which instead offer a fully brushed bracelet finish.

Rolex Yacht-Master ref 116680

One of the most popular Rolex Yacht-Master watches has to be the ref 116680 with a blue ceramic bezel. Rolex had begun equipping its watches with Cerachrom bezels back in the year 2005. This model was made available in stainless steel, two-tone Everose, or yellow gold, and since it belongs to the Yacht-Master II collection, measures a broad 44mm diameter. As of 2019, Rolex Yacht-Master II watches were equipped with the Calibre 3235 – a trusted workhorse for many of Rolex’s models. Framed inside this striking blue bezel is a white dial adorned with a small second sub-counter in blue at 6 o’clock, along with a countdown that can be programmed for a duration of between 1 and 10 minutes. The programming is memorized by the mechanism so that at a reset it returns to the previous setting and once launched, can be synchronized on the fly to match the official race countdown.

Rolex Yacht-Master ref 116655

The Rolex Yacht-Master ref 116656 is, without a doubt, one of the most coveted and popular models from this series of luxury sports watches. The model not only features a matte black ceramic bezel but features a set of two-textured, highly polished and raised numerals upon its sandblasted surface. The watch is fitted to an Oysterflex bracelet, promising all-round comfort and thanks to its unusual choice of contrasting rich black and luxurious pink gold colours, can be enjoyed by both male and female Rolex fans alike. An Everose case and gold serrated ring complete its look, combining nicely with the elegant black bezel, whilst on the display itself, cathedral-type hands and a cyclops date window reside.

The Rolex Yacht-Master II ref 226659

Slightly larger in size is the 42mm Rolex Yacht-Master II watch with the reference 226659, which features a stunning 18ct white gold case and bezel with a striking black Cerachrom bezel inlay for precise tracking of elapsed time. The Oysterflex bracelet is just one of the many appealing features of the Rolex Yacht-Master series. Although creating the aesthetic and sporty look of a rubber strap with its outer elastomer rubber shell in black - inside the structure of the bracelet is a series of flexible metal inserts. The Rolex Yacht-Master II ref 226659 debuted in 2019 with the desirable Calibre 3235 secured to the heart of its case, creating plenty of power reserve for those occasions when taken off the wrist, promising superior reliability and accuracy. Its classic black and white gold colourway make it easy to pair wot formal, casual or elegant attire.

There will always be plenty of reasons to invest in a Rolex Yacht-Master watch. Having been equipped with a reliable movement and a set of unique features that enable superior regatta timings out on the water, there is little else on the market that matches the supreme craftsmanship and instantly recognizable aesthetics of the iconic Rolex Yacht-Master watch. Whether you have any use for the polarizing watch’s regatta timer feature or not, it is one of the most niche complications watches imaginable. The Yacht-Master will always be a timepiece that holds its value, symbolizing a brand of significant provenance and value.

More Rolex guides

To find out more about which Rolex hold their value you can read more of our guides where we cover all Rolex Nicknames or our classic guide to the Day Date models and our comparision with their sister brand: Rolex vs Tudor .

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Rolex yacht-master review – should you buy it.

Mr. Watch Your Style is at it again with his video review of the new 2012 Rolex Yacht-Master. You know, the one with the blue dial?

Does this new 40-mm Yacht-Master improve your watch game?  It does, if you ask Eric! Eric opens his video by explaining that Rolex released this new Yacht-Master 1 in 2012, as an upgrade to the 2009 version with the silver dial. He explains that even though the 2009 version of the Yacht-Master  comes with a dial and bezel insert made out of platinum, many people mistake it for the prior older 1999 model. Both of these models have a silver colored dial, thus the confusion. When it comes to the the 2012 YM1, this confusion does not exist because of the blue sunray dial Rolex used on the new watch. Eric explains, 

'Whereas this one right here, there's absolutely no confusion. It's a brand new model. This thing changes the value of the watch, the fact that it has the blue dial...on another level.'

'If you want to buy something that's a little bit more next level beyond the standard Sub...the Yacht-Master is a good choice.'

Another big improvement on the Yacht-Master design is the clasp. Rolex upgraded the old clasp design when they released the 2012 model. The new YM model has a spring-loaded Oysterlock clasp, which also increases the allure of this new timepiece.

Price of the New Yacht-Master

'I think that the right way to buy this watch is pre-owned. You are looking to spend around 9200 dollars.'

'So, if you're looking to get a nice watch in the 9000-dollar area that's pretty versatile, the Yacht-Master with the blue dial. Very nice. I like it and I've sold many of them and everybody's very happy with that watch.'

If you liked Eric's video and review of the newer Rolex Yacht-Master with the sunburst dial, please make sure to share it with your friends and subscribe to our YouTube channel to stay up to date with our Watch Your Style series. You can also like this post using the social buttons above. For your convenience, here's a link to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/crmjewelers .

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• The Wardrobe

A buyer's guide to the Rolex Yacht Master

When it comes to luxury timepieces, one name that consistently sets sail to the forefront of horological excellence is the Rolex Yacht Master. Whether you're a seasoned watch collector or a novice looking to make a timeless investment, this series beckons with its allure of sophistication and precision.

Table of Contents

What is the rolex yacht master, why the rolex yacht master is a good investment, which models should you buy.

The Rolex Yacht Master is more than just a watch ; it's a symbol of nautical elegance and technical prowess. Designed for those who appreciate the beauty of the sea and the precision of Swiss craftsmanship, it is a collection that embodies the spirit of adventure and luxury. Introduced in 1992, this timepiece was created for sailors and yacht enthusiasts, making it perfect for both sporting endeavors and formal occasions.

Timeless elegance

With graceful lines, an uncluttered dial, and a perfectly proportioned case, the Yacht Master stands as a testament to the enduring allure of classic design. Whether you choose the stainless steel or the opulent gold and platinum variants, you're investing in a watch that will always be in vogue, a true symbol of lasting refinement.

Rolex has earned its reputation for crafting timepieces that endure the rigors of everyday life and the most demanding adventures. The Yacht Master, designed for the high seas and beyond, embodies this spirit of resilience. Its robust materials, including corrosion-resistant stainless steel, precious metals, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, ensure that it can withstand the harshest conditions.

While Rolex produces a wide array of models to cater to diverse tastes, the Yacht Master's limited availability adds an extra layer of exclusivity to its ownership experience. Owning a Yacht Master is akin to possessing a piece of horological history—a tangible connection to a heritage of excellence that spans decades.

Rolex Yacht Master 40 (Ref. 126622)

Here is an epitome of understated luxury . With its Rolesium case – a blend of stainless steel and platinum – and a striking blue dial, it exudes sophistication. Equipped with the reliable Caliber 3235 movement, it offers impressive precision and a power reserve of 70 hours. This model is perfect for those who appreciate classic design with a modern touch.

Rolex Yacht Master 42 (Ref. 226659)

For those who prefer a larger and bolder presence on the wrist, this model a standout choice. Featuring an 18ct white gold case and a sporty black Cerachrom bezel, this timepiece combines robustness with refinement. The Chromalight luminescence ensures excellent visibility even in low-light conditions, while the in-house Caliber 3235 movement guarantees precision and reliability.

Up next, the best Rolex investment watches in 2024.

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Owner Review: Rolex Yacht-Master 40 126622

What's it like to wear the rolex yacht-master.

| Wrist Size: 7 inch

Before we get to my Rolex Yacht-Master 40 126622 review, we need some background. In 1992 Rolex introduced a watch that shared the silhouette of their beloved Submariner but in solid 18k yellow gold, embossed YG bezel insert soldered to the bezel, funky white dial, and the unusual name “Yacht-Master” written where “Submariner” would normally live. People then and now still wonder.. “Why?”.

Rumor has it Rolex wanted to drastically update the Submariner but were scared that the changes were too extreme. The Submariner was essentially their poster child and arguably their most iconic watch. Fearing backlash, they created a whole new line. Rolex rarely creates completely new watches, the last time they made a new watch before the Rolex Yacht-Master was in 1964 when the Daytona was introduced. Luckily it paid off as the Yacht-Master was pretty well received!

Even though the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 at first glance looks very similar to the Submariner it’s a totally different wearing experience. The case shape is completely different from the Sub. Its case profile is composed of compound curves with the lugs swooping downwards very similar to a Daytona, the case is also fully polished. My particular Rolex Yacht-Master 40 126622 being Roleisum (Rolex’s term for the combination of Platinum and Steel which was first introduced in 1999 with the ref. 16622), in combination with the blue sunburst dial and red accents, gives it such a unique aesthetic it sets it apart in Rolex’s catalog. Rolex I think perfected their blue dials, it’s absolutely gorgeous! Pictures do not do it justice whatsoever. In person, it appears much darker, almost black however in direct light that’s when the striking blue hue pops. The date function is also very convenient!

What is it like to wear a Rolex Yacht-Master? I would describe it as the most comfortable and stressful watch I have ever worn and owned. What most people don’t realize is that it’s a thin watch and I mean THIN. At 11.5mm it’s just as thin or even thinner than a 34mm 114200 Air-King! Like what? The case hugs your wrist amazingly while the oyster bracelet seems to caress you. It makes you want to wear it every single day, I mean how could you not? Thin, sporty, beautiful, comfortable and low key a strap monster. Until you see a scratch or nick on the solid Platinum bezel insert, call up Rolex Service Center to see how much it would be to replace it and they slap you in the face with a $2500 (before taxes) quote for JUST the bezel/bezel insert assembly (they’re soldered together remember?). Then you think “Okay, okay which Seiko ’s do I sell to cover the cost of a freaking bezel”. Did I mention the case is fully polished?

Has this ever happened to me? No, because I’m extremely OCD, however I was curious and called RSC, I also used to own the 16622 and was trained to wear long sleeves only, only wear it sparingly, cover my wrist when walking through doorways, never let it touch denim (yes, denim will scratch it apparently), and for all I know never sneeze near it or even look at it too long because for all I know that could probably scratch it too. To top it all off, of COURSE the bracelet and clasp has Polished Center Links! While I am exaggerating the fragility of the Rolex Yacht-Master, the stress of potentially scuffing it is real.

The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 126622 is arguably one of my favorite watches ever made. I never thought I’d ever get to own one. It’s beautiful, ridiculously comfortable, relatively uncommon, however so stressful to wear. I have owned it for almost exactly one year and I personally try to enjoy every second I wear it; I even strap changed it with zero scuffs! I have and I do but my OCD and extreme caution lends itself to be a difficult one to fully appreciate without worry. I’ve debated if this watch was right for me all the time. However, I would recommend this watch to anyone minutely interested. I have no regrets having owned two of them like an insane person, but who in the watch collecting world isn’t insane?

Rolex Yacht-Master 40 126622

• Very comfortable to wear.
• Beautiful aesthetics.
• Has many color ways.
• Stressful to wear.
• Scratches relatively easily.
• Difficult to even buy.

Review Breakdown

• Wearability 0%

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Review: Rolex Yacht-Master 42

The Yacht-Master was, once upon a time, Rolex’s least popular model. Reportedly a botched attempt to rejuvenate the Submariner line for a wealthier audience, it languished for decades at the bottom of the pile, unloved. But something has changed in recent years, something that has revitalised the Yacht-Master into a watch people actually want. Could the latest addition to the collection be the best yet?

Okay, so the story goes that in the early days, post-quartz crisis, Rolex was floundering to realign the brand into something that would catch the attention of a modern audience. Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe had demonstrated a demand for high-end, high-priced sports watches, and by comparison, Rolex’s no-nonsense Submariner et al were a little reserved.

In fact, a little reserved was Rolex’s whole business model. The brand had spent a century building up dominance from scratch by utilising a simple platform to build a series of professional watches that were primarily designed for work and not play. There was no fancy finishing or exquisite designs—it was the utilitarian nature that made a Rolex stand out from its competitors.

But professionals didn’t need these watches any more, and so that left Rolex with a problem. It was time to adapt or go home. That’s when someone at Rolex headquarters had a good idea: why not take the Submariner, give it a polish, dress it up with fancy materials and re-release it as the new-and-improved Submariner for the gentleman who likes to dive not from an oil platform, but a yacht?

So, that’s what Rolex did, but legend has it that right at the last minute a decision was made, and this new watch was released not as the new Submariner, but the Yacht-Master instead. First seen in 1992, all in gold with a dial in rich blue sunburst or white with black markers, the new Yacht-Master was destined to make a splash.

Although—it didn’t. It barely made a plop. This was because a new breed of watch collector had taken a fancy to something else of Rolex’s—the very watches the brand thought it needed to move away from. Vintage Submariners, Explorers, Sea-Dwellers, these were the watches collectors wanted, and so the Rolex way of life went on, safe in the hands of a fresh audience that could only ever want more.

But the Yacht-Master still existed, languishing, at the back of jeweller’s window displays. Not even a refresh in steel with sparkling platinum dial and red accents could attract any takers, and so the Yacht-Master line fell into hibernation for over fifteen years. In 2015, however, something completely unexpected happened.

As your sixteen-year-old school kid self will often remind you through haunting memories as you try to drift off to sleep of an evening, popularity is fleeting. It’s an ethereal concept, a balance of ingredients that no-one has ever quite managed to nail down. What can seem like it should be popular can fall flat on its face, and what shouldn’t can end up as the must-have item of the moment. It’s both precarious and mysterious.

In 2015, Rolex found that magic ingredient, redressing its Yacht-Master once again as the 116655, but this time in rose gold with a black ceramic bezel, matte black dial and, heaven forbid, a rubber strap. When you lay that down in theory, it sounds like the work of a fashion Neanderthal, pairing precious metals with synthetic rubber, but do you know what? It worked. The Yacht-Master went from hero to zero with the 116655, hitting a spot so sweet that it became a watch that Rolex had to let you buy rather you let them sell.

And now they’ve done it again, taking that delicate balance of secret herbs and spices and adding a dash more chilli pepper, because for 2019, we have the Yacht-Master 42 226659. Sometimes it may seem like Rolex isn’t listening, but believe me, they’ve got their ears glued to the ground, and the Yacht-Master 42 proves it.

The recipe is much the same as the 116655, but with two major differences. The first, more obvious in isolation, is the white gold case, which sets off the monochromatic theme very nicely, and the second, which a glance at the name of this watch will reveal, is the new, upsized case dimensions. Like the Explorer II and the Sky-Dweller, the Yacht-Master 42 is, well, 42mm in diameter.

This is simultaneously such a big deal and such a small one. It’s only two tiny millimetres bigger, yet the impact is somehow dramatic. It has a presence that dominates, like a new-found confidence after years of being the ugly duckling in a flock of swans. It’s like that bit at the end of the movie where the nerd gets a makeover and turns out to be solid ten out of ten after all, giving them a new lease of life. You could almost say it was arrogant, but isn’t that exactly what you want from the most luxurious of sports watches?

The 226659’s namesake has never been about reticence. You want the biggest yacht in the harbour, tender, helipad and all, and that’s why the Yacht-Master 42 has immediately become the king of its collection. There’s no room for tugboats and barges here: only the sleek, shiny and impressive need apply, and the Yacht-Master 42 is exactly that.

If there’s one thing Rolex has consistently achieved throughout its years making watches, it’s prophecy. The wristwatch, the dive watch, the Daytona—all these things were revealed by the brand before the world was fully ready to understand them. The Yacht-Master is perhaps the most surprising of all, a reaction to a changing market that only came to bloom several decades after inception. With the Yacht-Master 42 now leading the way, I think that’s what Rolex would call a win-win.

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The stealthy excellence of the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 in white gold (ref. 226659)

If you weren’t paying close attention you could easily miss the new Rolex Yacht-Master 42 in white gold. And I mean that in the best way. It’s a handsome timepiece, with a quiet presence that (despite its newness) feels reassuringly familiar in some hard-to-define way.

Despite being 2mm bigger than its Everose Gold brother (and a 42mm Oyster case wears quite big), it’s the opposite of in your face. In fact, thanks to the monochrome colour scheme of the dial, bezel and case, and the matt black Oysterflex strap, it may be the most discreet model in Rolex’s entire line-up.

I’m not suggesting that it can’t be a love-at-first-sight piece – but the more closely you look, the greater the rewards. The absence of colour draws your eye to the details, and emphasises the play of shiny and matt surfaces: the fine band of polished notches around the outer edge of the bezel contrasts with the matt Cerachrom insert, which in turn plays against the shine of the black lacquer dial. The polished surfaces of the raised numerals on the bezel (they are an integral part of the bezel, moulded with the ceramic, rather than applied) cast barely-there shadows on the surrounding matt surface. And when the light plays over the highly polished case-side, with its seamless cutaway from lugs to crown guards – well, it’s a beautiful thing. The curve is perfect and the white gold has a visual softness that you just don’t get with steel or platinum.

The matt black rubber Oysterflex strap is the Goldilocks element, tying everything together in just-right harmony (whereas the hardness and shine of a metal bracelet could throw things off-balance visually).

Having been introduced in 2015, the Oysterflex strap is no longer news but it’s worth revisiting because it’s such a great piece of design – possibly the most comfortable watch strap known to mankind. That’s thanks to the tiny, flexible ‘blades’ hidden on the underside between a pair of longitudinal cushions. The effect is a feeling of extraordinary lightness on the wrist (balanced in this case by the pleasant heft of the white gold case), absolute stability and … no sweat. Literally, since the air can circulate between skin and strap. The folding clasp has an integrated extension system that enables you to adjust it in 2.5mm increments, up to a total of about 15mm – instantly and without tools.

On the dial, simplicity of the markers and their assertive size make it highly legible (again, with no colour to distract the eye – not even the line of red text that appears on other Yacht-Masters). Thanks to the Chromalight lume (which glows blue in the dark) none of this clarity is lost at night.

Rolex scores more points by bringing its new-generation Calibre 3235 (launched last year) into the Yacht-Master range for the first time – a technical step up from the Everose Gold model. The key attributes of cal.3235: the patented Chronergy escapement, designed to maximise energy efficiency and made of magnetically neutral nickel-phosphorus, and the Parachrom hairspring, resistant to shocks and also paramagnetic. The benefit: accuracy of +2/-2 seconds per day (tested after casing), more than twice the standard chronometer specification.

As we expect from Rolex, this is an exceedingly well built and tremendously practical watch, ideally suited to everyday sporting wear. Although it’s water-resistant to 100 metres, it’s designed for above-water not underwater life. The bezel is bi-directional; it’s Yacht-Master, not Dive-Master. It’s not a tool watch. So while I briefly thought – as I’m sure many of you did – “Why not steel?” I no longer ask that (rhetorical) question. White gold is entirely appropriate and, in this handsomely sporty monochrome package, it’s the stealth Rolex par excellence.

Rolex Yacht-Master 42 (ref. 226659) price

Rolex Yacht-Master 42 , white gold on Oysterflex, $36,950

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4 Reasons Rolex Yacht Master Should Be Your Next Watch Investment

Chopard has been an esteemed label in high society for both its jewelry and timepieces. Chopard watches are loved by famous figures from different fields, ranging from Hollywood stars to international entrepreneurs. These luxury watches have frequently been spotted with them during public appearances including red carpets. So if you are looking for a perfect dress watch for any high end event, the Chopard is undoubtedly your top pick. The current Chopard watch family is offering several classic and dressy collections to cater different needs of watch collectors.  The Rich History of Chopard Watches The magnificent Chopard watch is not just all about its distinctive design and craftsmanship, but also its sophisticated combination with its high jewelry. Every Chopard dress watch is meticulously crafted with quality materials and features that are not commonly used in any regular watch. Its use of high level complications and precise calibers has always ensured the excellency of its watches, garnering the hearts of watch enthusiasts from all around the globe.  Since its jewelry is too popular in the global market, some people are even mistaken that Chopard is originally a jewelry brand. However, actually everything of the company started from its watches before it began to step foot in the jewelry industry. The acclaimed luxury watch brand Chopard can trace back its roots to the 1800s. It was when the talented watchmaker Louis-Ulysse Chopard set up a small traditional watchmaking workshop in Sonvilier Switzerland. During its early stage, its business was started as a manufacturer of handmade chronometers and pocket watches.  The high quality and reliable Chopard chronometers and timepiece had brought great success to the business and the company had grown rapidly into Switzerland’s biggest watchmaking manufacturer within just a few decades. Today Chopard has already become a world-class luxury brand that every watch and jewelry lover desires for.  More than a century after the company was founded, the family business Chopard watch was finally acquired by an entrepreneur Karl Scheufele in 1963 and was further passed to Caroline and Karl-Friedrich Scheufele two decades later. Under the leadership of the new owners, the brand developed more and more exciting new models and expanded further to the whole global market.  CHOPARD Alpine Eagle 295370-5002 After being through the tough quartz crisis in the 1970s, the Swiss watchmaker Chopard watch continued to deliver surprises to the collectors with the release of new collections in the 1980s, such as the Chopard Happy Diamonds dress watches and Chopard Alpine Eagle sports watches. This 1980s and the next years are considered the golden age of the brand’s innovation. The new Chopard watches have all set a milestone for the watchmaker that brought huge achievements to its history.  Chopard watch’s Milestones and Innovations If you would like to pick a Chopard watch to accompany you for any cocktail event, you may consider one of its popular models that are fitted with the brand’s renowned innovation.  Being also one of the major jewelry brands in the world, its beautiful combination of watches and diamonds is magnificent. The invention of dancing diamonds in 1976 is considered one of the brand’s greatest successes. Chopard watch added moving gem embellishments to their watch to further enhance a dynamic touch and shininess. This alluring feature has instantly become an iconic characteristic of the brand.  Besides, the innovative Chopard St. Moritz and Chopard Luna D’Oro watches were introduced respectively, in 1980 and 1984. Both of them were well crafted with robust metal and practical complications like a perpetual calendar and retrograde dial.  Another worth mentioning model is the Chopard L.U.C 1860 watch. Carrying the brand’s remarkable L.U.C Caliber 96.01-L, this Chopard dress watch was awarded as the Watch of the Year in 1997 from the Swiss Montres Passion/Uhrenwelt Magazine.  Popular Chopard Dress Watches for You Equipped with the best innovations of the brand, there are a few Chopard dress watch models that best fit for your cocktail attire dress code. Chopard L.U.C Watches CHOPARD L.U.C. GMT 168579-3001 Every watch from the Chopard L.U.C collection is capable of standing any accomplished businessman out from a formal event in these modern times. Coming up with classic design aesthetics, this collection is created to pair with yout tuxedo or any dressy outfit. You can choose from a more simplistic and contemporary design or a more vintage-looking design such as the models from L.U.C Heritage which was inspired from the Chopard pocket watches from the 1860s.  On top of the distinctive outlook, the Chopard LUC watches hold a high manufacturing standard. Every piece from this Chopard men’s watch collection is fully created in Switzerland from design to assembling at the brand’s two watchmaking hubs in Maison’s Geneva and Fleurier. With such craftsmanship the Chopard LUC watch for men is an award-winning masterpiece as the 1997 Watch of the Year.  Chopard Classic Watches CHOPARD Classic Manufacture 161289-1001 As stated in its name, the Chopard Classic collection is created to house a series of the brand’s classic models. It was to honor the vintage Chopard pocket watches. The Chopard Classic models are adorned with simplicity and elegance. If you are more fond of simple design, then the Chopard Classic watch should be a nice pick for you.  Just one thing you may need to check out is that the brand has divided these Chopard Classic models into two different lines: the Classic and the Classic Manufacture. Although both lineups are equipped with the brand’s inhouse automatic movements, the Chopard Classic uses a more traditional and standard caliber while the Classic Manufacture models are powered by a more advanced in-house movement exclusively made in Fleurier. Chopard Happy Diamonds Watches CHOPARD 204305-5301 As mentioned earlier, Chopard has been renowned for playing around with the combinations of jewels and timepieces. The Chopard Happy Diamonds collection is its emblematic jewelry watch. The Chopard watches from this collection are usually added three, five or seven gems, either on the dial face between two sapphire crystal glass or inside the inner and outer frames. These gems are not fixed and they would move along with the natural motion of the wearer, creating a lovely dancing effect. With such a dynamic flair, these Chopard diamonds watches are a true standout that could catch everyone’s attention at any event. 

• Yacht Master
• Oyster Perpetual
• Cosmograph Daytona
• Lady Datejust

Everyone who may not even be familiar with watches would know that owning a Rolex watch is considerably a solid investment in the market. Many people have chosen their most popular models to be their first Rolex watch like a Rolex Submariner or Rolex GMT Master . Yet how about your next one? 

If you are still considering, you should really take a look at the Rolex Yacht Master . 

Even though the Rolex Yacht-Master watch does not really have some kind of rich history that is directly related to military use or any significant sports achievement, it is still considered as a true luxury sports watch that is highly desired among many Rolex lovers in the market. Built with robust construction and distinctive aesthetics, the brand has been putting massive effort to the collection’s growth and development. 

Being one of the brand’s luxury models in the premium segment, the Rolex Yacht Master should be a great pick if you are looking for watches which hold values. So let us brief you a little bit of its story and why it is a good choice for investment. 

Brief Introduction of the Rolex Yacht Master Watch

The Rolex Yacht Master was introduced in 1992, as the brand’s first higher end luxury sports watch built for the open seas. To fully demonstrate the ultra luxury aspect of this new Rolex watch , this first Yacht Master watch is presented in a full gold profile. The 40mm case was entirely crafted out of solid 18k yellow gold and paired with a matching gold bi-directional rotating 60-minutes bezel as well as a matching gold Oyster bracelet. Supported with the initial success and overwhelming responses in the market, the brand has aggressively expanded the Yacht Master collection over these few decades, using a selection of premium materials. There are a wider variety of versions available in different dial colors and sizes as well. 

And around 15 years after the initial launch of the Yacht-Master Rolex watch , the brand introduced its new brother, the regatta chronograph Rolex Yacht-Master II in 2007. This new collection is designed specifically for regatta racing players. To cater the needs specifically of these athletes of extreme racing, Rolex has incorporated exceptional features that are essential to the sport. Such as a programmable countdown timer is fitted into the watch to measure precisely the exact time until the start of the race. Besides the flyback and fly-forward functions are equipped to easily synchronize the race committee when restarting the race sequence. Another main difference between the Yacht Master models is that the new Rolex Yacht-Master II is only available in a larger 44 mm size, that only fits for men with a thicker wrist. 

Reasons Why You Should Own a Rolex Yacht Master 

Among the world’s Rolex admirers and collectors, there are already endless discussions about the comparisons of the models such as GMT Master vs Submariner , or a Yacht Master vs Submariner . 

Within all those alluring Rolex watch models , why the Rolex Yacht Master be one of your Rolex collections ? 

The brand’s sailing history

Although the first Yacht Master was only released in 1992, this Swiss watchmaking brand’s relationship with sailing can actually date back to the 1950s. In 1958, Rolex partnered with the prestigious New York Yacht Club and supplied its robust timepieces to the club. At the time the brand had already built a solid status in the industry for its reliable waterproof watches with their own patented Rolex Oyster case. The partnership of the sports clubs is a natural and honorable step forward to a higher level. 

Grounded by the long term relationship between the brand and sailing, Rolex had further solidified its fame in this sport when the legendary navigator, Francis Chichester sailed around the globe with a Rolex Oyster Perpetual as one of his tools in 1966. He spent almost one year from August 1966 to May 1967 to sail 29,600 miles around the globe on his yacht, the Gipsy Moth IV, with only a few tools including his Rolex , nautical charts and a sextant. He used the Rolex wristwatch chronometer to keep a precise time amidst rough conditions for over two hundreds of days at the wide sea all by himself.

A Rolex watch was well proven as a reliable companion for sailing. In the 1960s, the brand released a prototype for the Cosmograph Daytona chronograph series with the name “ Yacht Master ” on the dial of the watch. It was an extremely rare vintage model in the current market and its only two known pieces of this prototype Daytona Yacht-Master today are the one which belonged to Eric Clapton and the other one owned by renowned Rolex collector John Goldberger.

Well Build with high Rolex’s standard

As the brand’s luxury oriented model, this Rolex Yacht Master collection has always been well crafted from the best materials and most premium metals such as full gold and platinum. The excellent build of this beautiful piece truly excels at its core objective. Every watch from the Rolex Yacht-Master collection is equipped with a practical 60-minute rotating timing bezel and offers an impressive water resistance up to a depth of 100 m. It is no doubt a masterpiece that would last decades and still hold values in the market even at that time. 

Exclusive Models

As a watch collector, one of the words you would love the most should be “exclusive”. It means uncommon, special and most importantly, values. For this collection, the brand released an exclusive Rolex Yacht Master Rolesium version in 1999. The Rolex Rolesium is a patented mixed metal combination of stainless steel and platinum construction that was invented in the early 1930s. It was firstly used on Yacht Master and is currently only used on this watch. Being a standout from other Rolex watches , the Yacht Master is one of the highly desired models in the market. 

Mid-size sporty models

For many female collectors, this Rolex collection offers some of the few Rolex sports watches for women. Although the Rolex Lady Datejust is offering countless exceptional dress watch choices for the ladies, there are still fewer sporty options. The Rolex Yacht Master 37mm is a just-right unisex sized sports watch model for both women and men with smaller wrists. Within the Rolex 37mm Yacht Master watches , the Rolex Yacht Master rose gold version is amongst the most sought-after models that hold high popularity in the secondary market. 

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Prospex is one of the flagship collections of Japanese watchmaking giant Seiko. This impressive lineup primarily offers diving timepieces, sports chronographs and tool watches designed for outdoor activities. The iconic brand has created five core groups — Sea, Land, Speedtimer, LX Line and Street Series — to categorize various types of models from this sports-watch […]

Chopard has been an esteemed label in high society for both its jewelry and timepieces. Chopard watches are loved by famous figures from different fields, ranging from Hollywood stars to international entrepreneurs. These luxury watches have frequently been spotted with them during public appearances including red carpets. So if you are looking for a perfect […]

Introduction Founded by Gabrielle Chanel in 1910, Chanel watch is one of the most revered haute-couture houses in the world. With its operational headquarters in London and creative hub in Paris, the company specializes in women’s ready-to-wear, lifestyle accessories, perfumes and luxury watches. The brand launched its first watch collection in 1987. Named PREMIÈRE, this […]

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At 8:30 AM last Wednesday (Geneva time), when everyone stateside was tucked into their beds, the entire set of new Rolex novelties hit the internet. We immediately turned our focus to a certain left-sided crown GMT-Master II with a green and black bezel, and the new Air-King with crown guards and professional case. But those weren't the only releases from The Crown this year. In fact, when the HODINKEE team visited the Rolex booth (I really need to stop calling these things booths) at Watches & Wonders, one collection took us all by surprise: The Yacht-Master.

Now, I don't have a complete understanding of the personal lives of my colleagues, but I think it's fair for me to say that not one of us is a competitive yachts-person and yet nearly every one of us was jazzed to handle the new 42mm Yacht-Master in yellow gold on the Oysterflex bracelet. Yellow gold has a tendency to do that.

In fact, this is one of the reasons I am so happy that trade shows are back and we're able to handle watches in person and report back to you, the readers, on our observations. I think it's likely that we would have overlooked this release as nothing more than a change in metal. But to my mind, this new case material results in a Yacht-Master the way it always should have been: Flashy, but no less sporty. The yellow gold execution just feels right.

Of course, that wasn't the only news to come off the yacht. We weren't able to see it, but Rolex unveiled a new white gold variant with something called a Falcon's Eye dial which looks about as cool as anything I've seen out of the "house that Wilsdorf built" in years. I'll reserve full judgment until I see it in person, though.

Yacht-Master with Falcon's Eye dial

But there was even more yacht-watch action that had the room waiting to touch and feel (I'll never stop saying that). I'm talking about the 40mm white gold Yacht-Master with diamond-set lugs, and a rotating bezel fully set with an array of colorful sapphires.

I don't want this point to be lost on anyone. The bezel has no text, numerals, or any useful markings. It's just adorned with sapphires and yet – Rolex still made it rotate. You just have to love that. It almost bears repeating the "no sapphire left unturned" joke I made in the introductory article. Well, I guess I just repeated it anyway.

It really is interesting that the watches you think we'd scoff at in press photos are the ones we were most excited to try on in person. The sapphire YM made its way around the table multiple times, as each of us wanted a second and third time with it on the wrist. From a size perspective, I have always loved the 40mm YM , and the colorful blingy-ness of this one really makes it a larger-than-life timepiece.

But it was the YG YM that really caught my eye. Prior to W&W, we wrote an article about Rolex watches we hoped to see this year. I chose one I knew we would never see, which was a Submariner with a Yacht-Master bezel. I just love the matte-ceramic look and feel of this bezel with the tone-on-tone raised numerals. For a model range that comes predominantly in precious metals, it is interesting to see such a utilitarian, toolish look paired with gold. This is in contrast to the steel Submariner, which utilizes a shiny Cerachrom bezel.

On the wrist, the 42mm version wears exactly like you would expect a 42mm watch to wear. It isn't deceptively small, or overly large – but it is big. I have a six-and-a-third-inch wrist and I am not sure I could wear this one daily. Much of that has to do with the Oysterflex bracelet – and yes it is technically a bracelet and not a strap. You see, as comfortable as it is (and it's mighty comfortable), it bows out slightly and doesn't hug the wrist as tightly as a traditional bracelet does. Unfortunately, this makes a 42mm watch wear exactly as advertised, which in my case makes the watch a tad too big (though fingers crossed for a future 37mm version).

This was a bit of a bummer for me to experience in the room because as a design object, the yellow gold Yacht-Master is a total stunner. The black dial, maxi lume plots, and the date window all work to form a well-proportioned timepiece. Of course, this is a purely aesthetic update and the watch continues to feature the Superlative Chronometer-rated 3235 caliber.

I really think the entire YM collection is criminally underrated by the general watch-loving public, but I also understand that price is a factor in these things, and at $28,300 the yellow gold model isn't necessarily a bargain. Of course you can always spring for the steel model with platinum bezel in 40mm sizing, but that really feels like a different watch entirely.

My high-level observations of this watch are that it's a logical addition to the Yacht-Master fray. I suspect we'll see more of these in the wild than we did the white gold model because WG is a metal that flies under the radar. If you're buying gold, you want someone to know. It has the heft you want from a solid gold watch, but it's balanced by the cushioned comfort of the Oysterflex. In a world where steel Rolex sport watches are trending around the price of this model on the secondary market, is it so crazy to spring for YG and get your name on the warranty card?

Live photos, Tiffany Wade. For full specs and pricing,  check out our Introducing post.

For more information about Rolex, visit the brand's  website . The HODINKEE Shop features  pre-owned  and  vintage  Rolex watches.

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Is rolex yacht master 2 a good investment? (2024)

• 1. Is rolex yacht master 2 a good investment?
• 2. Will a Rolex Yacht Master 2 go up in value?
• 3. Is Yacht Master 2 discontinued?
• 4. Will Rolex discontinue the Yacht-Master?
• 5. Is Rolex Yacht Master rare?
• 6. How much is a Rolex Yacht-Master 2?
• 7. How many links does a Rolex Yacht-Master 2 have?
• 8. Which Rolex will go up in value?
• 9. Do discontinued Rolex go up in value?
• 10. Will Rolex increase prices in 2022?
• 11. Is yacht-master hard to get?
• 12. Which Rolex will be discontinued 2022?
• 13. Which Rolex watches are discontinued for 2022?
• 14. Does Rolex Yachtmaster hold value?
• 15. When did the Rolex Yacht-Master 2 come out?
• 16. What is the point of the Rolex Yacht-Master?
• 17. How do I use my Rolex Yacht-Master 2?
• 18. How can you tell if a Rolex Yacht-Master 2 is real?
• 19. What is the cheapest Rolex?
• 20. Is Yacht-Master 2 waterproof?
• 21. Which is better Jubilee or Oyster bracelet?
• 22. How many links should you have on day 40?
• 23. Which is the best Rolex to buy?
• 24. Is a second hand Rolex a good investment?
• 25. Can you wear a Rolex everyday?
• 26. Is GMT Master 2 discontinued?
• 27. Which Rolex will be discontinued 2020?
• 28. Will the Rolex bubble burst?
• 29. Will Rolex increase price in 2021?
• 30. Should I buy a Rolex in 2022?
• 31. Is there a Rolex shortage?
• 32. How long does it take to get Yachtmaster?
• 33. What is the difference between a yacht-master and a submariner?
• 34. How long does it take to get a yacht-master?
• 35. Will Rolex release new Watches 2022?
• 36. What have Rolex discontinued?
• 37. Which models did Rolex discontinue?
• 38. Is Rolex Wimbledon discontinued?
• 39. Is the Rolex Batman discontinued?
• 40. Is a Rolex Air King a good investment?
• 41. How much is my Rolex Yachtmaster worth?
• 42. What size is Yacht-Master 2?
• 43. Is Yacht-Master water proof?
• 44. What is a Yacht-Master watch?
• 45. How do I use my Yacht-Master watch?

Is rolex yacht master 2 a good investment?

Yes. The Rolex Yacht-Master is a good investment for collectors for two main reasons. For one, these watches have historically held great value because of their uniqueness and sportiness; however, at the present time, they remain somewhat undervalued compared to their siblings in the Rolex catalog.

No Price Increase for the Rolex Yacht-Master II in 2022 To kick off the new year, Rolex raised its retail prices for 2022. The price increase can be seen across Rolex's entire catalog, and virtually every single model saw its retail price go up for 2022 - except the Yacht-Master II.

The Rolex Yacht-Master II, pre-facelift model, now discontinued .

No 2022 Price Increase for Rolex Yacht-Master II Watches However, it isn't likely that Rolex would discontinue the Yacht-Master II altogether , so I have a feeling that we will be seeing a whole new generation of Rolex's regatta timer at Watches & Wonders Geneva in a couple weeks.

Among the Rolex catalog, the Yacht Master II collection is a standout, and among the Yacht Master II's, the white gold and platinum combination, reference 116689, is quite possibly the most remarkable.

Retail prices for Rolex Yacht-Master II watches starts at $18,750 for the stainless steel model with a blue Cerachrom bezel , and increase from there with the use of precious metals. The most expensive Yacht-Master II model is the solid 18k white gold and platinum version, which costs $48,150 when purchased brand new.

Professional models from Rolex come with 12 links plus the end link and either EasyLink extension system.

As a general rule, steel Rolex sports watches reliably hold or appreciate in value. This includes, in particular, the GMT-Master II with its famous two-coloured bezel, the Cosmograph Daytona, and the ever-popular Submariner 16610.

Your Rolex price could increase in value over the years . But there is no exact formula to determine if a particular Rolex model will go up or not. Some Rolex watches become more expensive when they acquire vintage status. Others raise in value because they are made in Oystersteel.

Rolex prices likely to rise as demand shows no sign of easing in 2022 .

Is yacht-master hard to get?

The Yachtmaster course is undeniably difficult ; much more difficult than I had anticipated. But that is what Yachtmaster prep courses are for.

Discontinued Rolexes in 2022: Oyster Perpetual 124300 (41mm, turquoise, coral red or yellow dial), 126000 (36mm, coral red or yellow dial), 277200 (31mm, coral red or yellow dial) Deepsea 126660 (replaced by 136660) Air King 116900 (replaced by 126900) Day-Date 40 platinum 228206 (replaced by 228236)

Discontinued Rolex models for 2022 include the legacy Air King reference, colorful dial Oyster Perpetual 41 references, and Deepsea references .

Secondly, the Rolex Yacht-Master is a luxury watch and is often outfitted in precious metals. These precious metals inherently allow it to hold great value as the years go on , and its premium construction guarantees that it will always be worth something.

The Rolex Yacht-Master II is a sport watch made by Rolex, unveiled in 2007 and first introduced in March 2010 with the models 116688 (Yellow Gold) and 116689 (White Gold). One year later, in 2011, Rolex introduced the model 116681 which was made from steel and everose gold.

As its name would suggest, the Rolex Yacht-Master was developed as a tool-watch for sailing , offering water-resistance up to 100 meters (330 feet) via a Triplock screw-down crown, a highly legible dial, and a bidirectional rotating timing bezel.

How to set your Rolex Yacht-Master II - YouTube

FAKE or REAL? Rolex Yacht-Master - YouTube

What Is The Cheapest Rolex. The cheapest Rolex is the 36mm Oyster Perpetual which costs $5,800 MSRP. The Oyster Perpetual is a no date stainless steel sports model that is considered the most affordable or entry level men's Rolex.

The crown is completely screwed down against the case. When the crown is in this position, the Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet) .

Which is better Jubilee or Oyster bracelet?

They are both made from Rolex's solid and durable Oystersteel, 904L which will last you a lifetime and more! The jubilee does tend to hide scratches better than the oyster bracelet due to there being less surface area to make contact with on the jubilee since it is made up of tiny arches.

The prestigious President bracelet of a Day-Date also has a total of 22 links , not counting the two end links.

• Rolex Submariner. ...
• Rolex Daytona. ...
• Rolex Sky-Dweller. ...
• Rolex GMT Master II. ...
• Rolex Day-Date 40. ...
• Rolex Sea-Dweller. ...
• Rolex Datejust 41. ...
• Rolex Yacht-Master II.

Rolex watches are an excellent investment, but some are more valuable than others . The best pre-owned Rolex watches for investment are the Daytona, Explorer II, Submariner, and Day-Date President. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual, Sea-Dweller and Datejust are also among the best pre-owned Rolex models worth investment.

When you wear your Rolex daily, you don't need to wind it . If you take it off and set it aside, the watch will retain its “charge” for two days or more, depending on the model.

This year, Rolex consolidated the GMT-Master II collection. A total of four references were discontinued , including the Ref 116710LN. Not only that, the steel models are now only available on Jubilee bracelets. And all models are only available with bi-colour ceramic bezels.

Rolex Green Submariner (The Hulk) With the launch of the innovative Submariner 41 collection, Rolex has inevitably discontinued the existing Submariner Date 11661x and Submariner 114060 versions.

Will the second hand Rolex bubble burst in 2022? Not likely , if the results from one of the first major auctions this year are an indicator of what's to come.

Here's what we know about the price hike The 4.2% increase may not affect long-term collectors . The Ref. 124060 Rolex Submariner (from the Professional Collection) was earlier priced at $8,100 in 2021. Its price has increased by 10.5% amounting to $8,950 in the US market this year.

If the Rolex Submariner is your dream watch and you have the financial means, don't hesitate to buy one in 2022 . I don't anticipate Rolex watches to drop abruptly in value anytime soon. And even if prices do ultimately go down for some reason, you'll already be wearing the timeless icon you've always dreamed of.

Is there a Rolex shortage?

In a year marked by shortages, one in particular is not like most of the others. Although the supply of Rolex watches may have briefly been disrupted by production and supply chain problems at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic , that's not the reason they're so hard to find – or so expensive when you do locate one.

Sea time requirements for the Yachtmaster Offshore exam All completed within the last 10 years: 50 days at sea on yachts upto 500GT and a minimum of 2,500 miles logged before you sit the exam . At least half the sea time must be in tidal waters. During this time you would have completed five passages of over 60 miles**.

The Yacht-Master's bezel is bidirectional with 60-minute graduations that are raised and polished to stand out clearly. The Yacht-Master is 100-meter water-resistant compared to the Submariner's 300-meter water-resistant case .

It is a comprehensive theory and live aboard course consisting of five days classroom theory and a practical component of six days for sail or five days for power including the practical on the water examination . The minimum age to obtain this certification is 18.

Brand new color combinations, a revamped king, and the “most prestigious metal available." While the Watches & Wonders trade show in Geneva brings an avalanche of new pieces from nearly every watchmaker on the planet, none are quite as eagerly anticipated as the Crown's.

The most notable discontinued models are some dial variations of the Oyster Perpetual 31, 36, and 41mm . Most importantly, perhaps the most sought-after watch in the whole of Rolex's collection, reference 124300 with turquoise “Tiffany” dial was discontinued. Only 2 years after first having been introduced in 2020.

• Series Datejust (9)Day-Date II President (8)Daytona (14)Explorer II (2)Sea-Dweller (1)Submariner (2)Submariner Date (5)
• Price $3,500-$10,000 (16)$10,000-$20,000 (4)$20,000-$50,000 (18)Over $50,000 (3)
• Buckle Deployant (35)
• Case Gold - Rose (5)Gold - White (6)Gold - Yellow (16)Steel (19)

Rolex Datejust II / 41, ' Discontinued part of Wimbledon Range ', Box & Papers.

The Rolex Batman was in production for seven years and discontinued in 2019 to make way for a newer version.

Is a Rolex Air-King a good investment? The Rolex Air-King is a great investment piece . Because you can get this watch (retail or second-hand) at such a reasonable price point, it is a great watch to invest in if you do not want to spend too much money but still get a beautiful, timeless, and valuable Rolex.

How much is my Rolex Yachtmaster worth?

All Rolex Yacht-Master II models come in the same 44mm case size . Models are available in the following metals: Yellow Gold. White Gold and Platinum.

Unlike the Submariner, the Yacht-Master's water resistance is “only” 100 meters . This means that the Yacht-Master is not designed to be a professional dive watch, which requires water resistance of at least 200 meters.

The Rolex Yacht-Master is a luxury sports watch manufactured by Rolex and first introduced in 1992 as Reference 16628 in 18-karat yellow gold.

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.css-1obzumv{font-weight:700;font-size:clamp(1.875rem, 1.25rem + 1.5625vw, 3.125rem);line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:1rem;line-height:1.1;}.css-1obzumv:lang(th){line-height:1.5;} Yacht-Master 40 .css-18uwo57{font-size:clamp(1.125rem, 1.0625rem + 0.1563vw, 1.25rem);line-height:1.6;font-weight:300;line-height:1.2;text-wrap:balance;}.css-18uwo57 span{display:block;} Oyster, 40 mm, Everose gold Reference 126655

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Stay the course

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 40 in 18 kt Everose gold with an Oysterflex bracelet.

Diamond-paved dial, optimal brilliance.

Diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds – the noblest and most precious stones are selected to grace Rolex timepieces. The brand has in-house expertise and equipment enabling it to bejewel any model in its catalogue.

Experienced gemmologists first select gemstones of the highest quality. For this, they can rely on their own seasoned judgement as well as state-of-the-art analysis equipment. The stones are then entrusted to the gem-setters, who skilfully place each precious stone onto the watch by hand, one by one, assuring precision to within hundredths of a millimetre. Such stringent tolerances guarantee that each stone shines with optimal brilliance and is perfectly aligned with those around it. These time-honoured gestures, which may be repeated many hundreds of times, ensure that each gem-set watch produced by Rolex sparkles with exceptional intensity and reflects the standard of excellence required by the brand.

Bidirectional Rotatable Bezel

Timing the distance.

The Yacht-Master’s bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel is made entirely from precious metals or fitted with a Cerachrom insert in high-tech ceramic. The raised polished numerals and graduations stand out clearly against a matt, sand-blasted background.

This functional bezel – which allows the wearer to calculate, for example, the sailing time between two buoys – is also a key component in the model’s distinctive visual identity.

The Oysterflex Bracelet

Highly resistant and durable.

The Yacht-Master’s new Oysterflex bracelet, developed by Rolex and patented, offers a sporty alternative to metal bracelets. The bracelet attaches to the watch case and the Oysterlock safety clasp by a flexible titanium and nickel alloy metal blade.

The blade is overmoulded with high-performance black elastomer which is particularly resistant to environmental effects, very durable and perfectly inert for the wearer of the watch. For enhanced comfort, the inside of the Oysterflex bracelet is equipped with a patented longitudinal cushion system that stabilizes the watch on the wrist and fitted with an 18 kt Everose gold Oysterlock safety clasp. It also features the Rolex Glidelock extension system, designed by the brand and patented. This inventive toothed mechanism, integrated beneath the clasp, allows fine adjustment of the bracelet length by some 15 mm in increments of approximately 2.5 mm, without the use of tools.

18 kt Everose gold

An exclusive patent

To preserve the beauty of its pink gold watches, Rolex created and patented an exclusive 18 kt pink gold alloy cast in its own foundry: Everose gold.

Introduced in 2005, 18 kt Everose is used on all Rolex Oyster models in pink gold.

More Yacht-Master technical details

Reference   126655

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Oyster, 40 mm, Everose gold

Oyster architecture

Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

Bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel with matt black Cerachrom insert in ceramic, polished raised numerals and graduations

Winding crown

Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system

Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date

Water resistance

Waterproof to 100 metres / 330 feet

Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding

3235, Manufacture Rolex

-2/+2 sec/day, after casing

Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting

Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers

Bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor

Power reserve

Approximately 70 hours

Flexible metal blades overmoulded with high-performance elastomer

Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system

Diamond-paved

Highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence

Certification

Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing)

Learn how to set the time and other functions of your Rolex watch by consulting our user guides.

Yacht-Master 40

Contact an Official Rolex Jeweler

Only official Rolex jewelers are allowed to sell and maintain a Rolex watch. With the necessary skills, technical know-how and special equipment, they guarantee the authenticity of each and every part of your Rolex and help you make the choice that will last a lifetime.

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Best Rolex Investment: Ultimate Guide

In the world of luxury timepieces, Rolex stands out as a symbol of prestige, craftsmanship, and timeless value. Investing in a pre-owned Rolex watch model is not just about acquiring a piece of exquisite horology; it’s about making a savvy financial decision that could yield significant returns in the future. With a rich history and a reputation for retaining, if not appreciating, in value, certain Rolex models have become highly sought after by collectors and investors alike. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the luxury watch market, understanding which Rolex watches hold the best potential for investment can guide you in making an informed purchase.

We always recommend that people should buy what they love and that personal preference should be the number one determining factor when choosing a watch . However, the fact remains that watches can often serve as investments, and the potential future value of a watch is something to consider while you make your decision. So, what are the best investment watches for 2024?

Before we get started, it is important to clarify what we mean by an “investment watch” and let you know that there is no “get rich quick” scheme to be found here. Instead, this guide is meant to highlight some currently undervalued Rolex watches , references that have recently become discontinued, and models that will likely be more expensive to acquire should you delay your purchase by another year. Now, without further ado, here are the best Rolex watches to invest in for 2024.

Rolex Submariner

Submariner Models to Invest in:

• Ref. 116610LN

There are few luxury watches in existence more widely regarded as blue-chip investments than the Rolex Submariner watch collection . Like with any stainless steel Rolex sports model, open market prices for the new Submariner watches are incredibly high and demand continues to be strong.

Despite the 1mm difference in size and some slightly altered proportions, the current Rolex 12661 watch wears incredibly similar to the previous Rolex 116610 Submariner watch . While the older model lacks the updated Cal. 3235 movement, it can now be purchased for a few thousand dollars less than the brand-new version, while still offering the vast majority of the same features like a Cerachrom (ceramic) bezel, blue-glowing Chromalight lume, and a solid-link bracelet with Glidelock clasp.

Additionally, the older generations with 40mm cases and aluminum bezel inserts, particularly the Rolex 16610 model number and the Rolex 14060 no-date Submariner also offer strong investment potential for 2024. Not only are they among the least expensive Rolex Submariner models available, but they are also the last generation to feature the classic proportions of the watch before the introduction of Super Cases and Maxi dials.

Lastly, two-tone watches have been experiencing a resurgence in popularity in recent years, so if it’s a two-tone Submariner that you’re interested in adding to your collection, you can snag the stainless steel and 18k yellow gold Rolex 16613 Submariner watch for nearly the same price as the all-stainless steel model. For those who are looking for the steel and gold aesthetic, this is a deal that is incredibly hard to pass up, and you will even have the option of either blue or black dials and bezels when choosing a two-tone Submariner.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual

Oyster Perpetual Models to Invest in:

• Ref. 124300
• Ref. 126000
• Ref. 114300
• Ref. 116000

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual line is one of the oldest names in Rolex’s catalog and for the last several years, it has occupied the position of being Rolex’s entry-level collection of watches. While there has historically not been all that much hype surrounding the line, 2020 marked a huge year for the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, and the updates to the collection even stole some of the headlines away from the brand-new Submariner.

Along with new Rolex movements and a range of vibrant dial colors came a brand new 41mm version of the Oyster Perpetual, which took the place of the largest model in the lineup. The vibrant dial versions of both the 41mm ref. 124300 and 36mm ref. 126000 are both extremely popular and are currently trading hands for anywhere between 50% to 150% above their brand-new retail prices on the open market.

Outside of the current catalog, the recently discontinued Oyster Perpetual 39 ref. 114300 also offers a lot of investment potential as we enter the back half of 2022. In addition to a rather short period of production (given that it was only part of Rolex’s catalog from 2015 to 2020), 39mm is considered to be somewhat of a sweet spot in terms of case size for many collectors, and open market prices for the ref. 114300 have continued to stay on the rise in the time since it was discontinued.

Lastly, with prices for the current production Oyster Perpetual being as high as they are now, the previous generation suddenly now offers collectors a lot of value for the money. While they may lack the new generation of movements, timekeeping performance will be identical at -2/+2 seconds per day, and the lugs of the case on the older ref. are slightly larger than the current model, giving it a slightly larger and more sporty feel on the wrist.

Rolex Explorer & Rolex Explorer II

Explorer Models to Invest in:

• Ref. 214270
• Ref. 216570

The Rolex Explorer watch collection is the brand’s original collection of sports watches, and the Explorer II first appeared in 1971, meaning that this year marks its 50th anniversary. To celebrate the occasion, the brand released an updated Rolex Explorer II model and also brought back the classic 36mm sizing for the time-only Explorer, along with introducing a new two-tone version of the watch. Although the new Rolex Explorer II reference 226570 features a new movement and a number of other small refinements, it is largely the same watch as its reference 216570 predecessor, which now represents a strong value proposition compared to the current production model that costs a few thousand dollars more on the open market.

Additionally, due to the fact that the Rolex Explorer II 226570 is so similar to the previous generation, the older reference 16570 is now all the more unique. In addition to featuring smaller 40mm cases, the Explorer II 16570 also features a different GMT hand and a significantly different bracelet design, resulting in a substantially different watch and a favorite among many collectors. Given that the current Rolex Explorer II collection seems to be continuing to head in the direction set by the previous ref. 216570, the older 40mm models such as the ref. 16570 and ref. 16550 are now the go-to options for those seeking a slightly more compact Explorer II watch.

One of the more surprising moves from Rolex way back in 2021 was the return of the classic 36mm case size for the Rolex Explorer 124270 model number and the introduction of a two-tone Explorer 124273. While many collectors are happy to see the return of the 36mm case size, there are some who feel that it is too small and prefer the sweet-spot size of the previous 39mm edition. The reference 214270 is now the only 39mm Explorer ever produced but prices haven’t yet spiked to reflect this, so now is the time to buy one should you want to add one to your collection. Additionally, the increased awareness of 36mm Explorer watches has resulted in prices for older models rising, and the reference 14270 has seen a steady increase in price over the course of the last year.

Rolex GMT-Master & Rolex GMT-Master II

GMT-Master Models to Invest in:

• Ref. 116710LN

The Rolex GMT-Master II line is one of the most popular watches in the world and while you can immediately turn a quick profit should you be lucky enough to purchase one of the stainless steel models at a retail level, some of the best investment opportunities among GMT-Master watches in 2024 are the older and discontinued models.

Vintage Rolex prices can be notoriously high , and the ref. 1675 GMT-Master has been rather expensive for a number of years now. However, the subsequent ref. 16570 offers much of the same vintage look and feel with a similar case and acrylic crystal – you can even find older examples with matte dials, but you can typically find ref. 16750 watches for several thousand dollars less than matte dial ref. 1675 watches and nearly half the price of the older gilt dial examples.

In terms of GMT-Master II models, some of the best value for the money exists in the first two generations of the watch, the ref. 16760 and the ref. 16710. The reference 16760 (aka “Fat Lady”) holds the distinction of being the very first iteration of the GMT-Master II, yet it sells for only a very slight premium above the similarly-styled ref. 16710. With that in mind, both models are among the least expensive Rolex GMT-Master II watches available and offer classic styling and case proportions that are becoming increasingly popular among today’s collectors.

Almost equally affordable to the 5-digit series of Rolex GMT-Master II watches is the first of the 6-digit models, the ref. 116710LN. While it does not feature a split-color bezel insert (which is probably why it often gets missed), the reference 116710LN does hold the distinction of being the first stainless steel Rolex watch to feature a ceramic bezel and also the only time that the color green has ever made an appearance on a stainless steel Rolex GMT watch. Given its unique appearance and its important role in the context of the history of the brand’s legendary pilot’s watch, it is not likely for prices to stay low forever.

Rolex Datejust

Datejust Models to Invest in:

• Ref. 116233

To the average person, it is the classic two-tone Rolex Datejust that is the model most emblematic of the brand. The Datejust is Rolex’s best-selling watch of all time and the 36mm model in stainless steel and yellow gold became an absolute icon during the peak of its popularity in the 1980s. Instantly recognizable, and arguably one of the most important watches that Rolex has ever created, the classic Rolex Datejust 36 remains shockingly affordable on the pre-owned market relative to the brand’s other mega-famous models.

Because it is such a staple of Rolex’s catalog, the classic two-tone Rolex Datejust with a fluted bezel has been continuously available over the years, and it can now be found in a number of different forms on the pre-owned market. This availability has historically helped to keep prices down; however, as the values for all of Rolex’s other watches continue to increase over the years, the classic two-tone Datejust has suddenly become an undervalued option for those searching for a used Rolex watch for sale .

Whether you choose the ref. 1601 with its pie-pan dial and acrylic crystal, the ref. 16013 with its flat dial and acrylic crystal, or the ref. 16233 with its flat dial and sapphire crystal, you can add one of these classic Rolex designs to your collection for anywhere between $5k and $8k on the pre-owned market, and this represents only a minor premium in price compared to their stainless steel counterparts.

On the modern side of things, the ref. 116233 offers much of the same look and feel as the current-production model with its solid-link bracelet and redesigned case with thicker lugs. However, with an open market price of several thousand dollars less than the current version, the Datejust 36 reference 116233 represents a relatively small increase in cost over the previous 5-digit generation and a highly attractive option for buyers on the secondary market.

Rolex Day-Date President Watches

Day-Date President Models to Invest in:

• Ref. 118238
• Ref. 218238

With prices for stainless steel Rolex models on the rise for a number of years now, gold Rolex watches have suddenly started to offer strong relative value on the secondary market. Likely helped along by surging gold prices and the economic uncertainty that accompanies a global pandemic, gold watches have been experiencing a resurgence in popularity and one that is most obvious when looking at the popular Rolex Day-Date collection .

Just like the Datejust, the Rolex Day-Date President is an iconic design and a true industry staple that is instantly recognizable all over the world. To many individuals, the Rolex President is the quintessential gold watch , and models such as the ref. 1803 and ref. 18238 are older iterations of a timeless classic that will always be in style and guaranteed to never be worth a cent less than their weight in 18-karat gold.

For a more modern look and feel, the ref. 118238 offers a similar overall wearing experience to the current-production 36mm model due to its solid-link 18k gold bracelet and updated case with thicker high-polished lugs. With prices currently hovering around $23k, the ref. 118238 does represent a significant step up in price compared to the previous 5-digit generation, but this is still more than $10k below the retail price of the current model and we anticipate this gap to narrow if gold prices continue to remain high.

Many collectors forget about the Rolex Day-Date II – the biggest Rolex President ever created. Only produced between 2008 and 2015 and offering a design that is bolder and more sporty in its overall appearance, the Rolex Day-Date II watch has a 41mm case, making it 1mm larger than the current Day-Date 40 model. Much of the current Rolex collecting world is focused on the brand’s various vintage sports models and at the present time, Day-Date II watches sell for similar prices to their 40mm siblings. With that in mind, not all that many Rolex Day-Date II watches were made, and there’s a good chance that these super-sized Presidents may become the next hot model for tomorrow’s collectors.

Date Models to Invest in:

The 34mm Rolex Date watch collection has always existed as a slightly smaller and more affordable alternative to the classic 36mm Datejust but just this year, Rolex finally discontinued it entirely from its catalog. Prior to being discontinued, Rolex only offered the 34mm Date in either stainless steel or White Rolesor (stainless steel with a white gold bezel); however, it has been the older full yellow gold models that have seen the greatest surge in popularity in recent years.

Initially produced in 14k and then later 18k gold, these premium versions of the Rolex Date offer significant savings compared to their 36mm siblings. Generally speaking the 14k models like the Rolex 1503 Date collection and ref. 15037 are less expensive than their 18k counterparts such as the ref. 15238; however, prices for all of these solid yellow gold Rolex Date models currently hover around the $8k to $12k price range. While this still represents a significant step up from the price range of similar stainless steel models, it also represents about half the price you might expect to pay for a yellow gold example from the 36mm Rolex Day-Date President collection.

It is also worth noting that you will find a fair number of interesting design details and quirks when it comes to these unusual 34mm gold Rolex watches. Models like the ref. 1503 and ref. 15037 feature 14k gold (all modern Rolex watches use 18k, regardless of color), while the reference 15238 features a gold rivet link bracelet despite not being released until the very end of the 1980s, which was long after the rivet-style had been replaced on other models.

Given the costly nature of their raw materials, there exists somewhat of a price floor for solid gold watches, and one that can fluctuate with the current price of gold. However these 34mm models represent some of the least expensive solid gold Rolex watches available, and collectors have been taking note of these often overlooked models in more recent years. Furthermore, due to the fact that the Rolex Date is now discontinued entirely, it is likely that interest will continue in these models throughout the rest of 2021, especially if gold prices continue to stay high as they have been during the last several years.

Rolex Sea-Dweller

Sea-Dweller Models to Invest in:

• Ref. 116600

As an entire collection, the Rolex Sea-Dweller is relatively undervalued. Due to the massive notoriety of the Submariner, the brand’s other series of professional dive watches often gets overlooked by collectors. Despite the fact that the Rolex Sea-Dweller model offers superior performance and is less common than the Submariner, you can often purchase a Rolex Sea-Dweller for roughly the same price on the secondary market.

Given that it was the very first Rolex Sea-Dweller and the model that helped pioneer the helium escape valve, it is slightly surprising that the ref. 1665 is not more expensive than it is today. The ultra-collectible Double Red (DRSD) and Single Red (SRSD) watches are certainly quite expensive, but the “Great White” ref. 1665 is remarkably attainable for being the first iteration of one of Rolex’s premier tool watch collections, and the only Sea-Dweller reference to ever be fitted with an acrylic crystal.

The two subsequent generations of the Rolex Sea-Dweller, the ref. 16660 “Triple Six” and ref. 16600 both feature 40mm cases with flat sapphire crystals and aluminum bezel inserts. Unless you want a matte dial version of the transitional Rolex 16660 Sea-Dweller, you can expect to pay somewhere in the neighborhood of $11k for one of these watches, which is roughly the same as the point of entry for the Submariner collection, despite the Sea-Dweller’s superior performance metrics.

Just like the rest of the Rolex Sea-Dweller collection, the ref. 116600 is a truly special watch that often just gets overlooked by many collectors. The reference 116600 was only produced between 2014 and 2017 and it represents both the last 40mm Sea-Dweller and the first one to feature a ceramic bezel insert. Additionally, it was the last Sea-Dweller model that Rolex produced with a Cyclops-free crystal before one was added with the arrival of the next generation. Not that many examples of the ref. 116600 were produced, and although prices are still relatively affordable at this time, they will likely only continue to increase as they have been for the last several years as more collectors become aware of this unique reference.

Rolex Air-King

Air-King Models to Invest in:

• Ref. 114200
• Ref. 114234

We have been saying it for years, but the older 34mm Rolex Air-King watches represent some of the best value for the money in all of watch collecting. While the current production 40mm model may now be trading hands for more than its retail price on the open market, the older iterations of the Air-King are some of the most affordable Rolex watches available.

The ref. 5500 is the quintessential vintage Rolex Air-King, and due to its long production period of approximately 1958 to 1989, examples are plentiful on the pre-owned market with prices starting out between $4k and $5k. Classic, minimal, and instantly recognizable as a Rolex, the Rolex 5500 Air-King has historically been one of the most affordable Rolex watches and as demand for the brand continues to grow, it is only natural for the value of this entry-level model to also increase.

For a slightly more modern and intricate take on the classic 34mm Air-King, the ref. 14010 offers an updated movement, a sapphire crystal, and a unique engine-turned bezel . Some collectors may prefer the classic smooth bezel of the ref. 14000 but the engine turned version on the ref. 14010 gives the watch a slightly larger wrist presence and helps set it apart from other models, as this style of bezel was never made available on Rolex’s various 36mm watches. Prices and demand for this generation of Air-King have been on the rise for a few years now, and it is a trend that we anticipate will continue as we enter the second half of 2021.

Lastly, the discontinued 34mm models with 6-digit reference numbers, such as the ref. 114200 and ref. 114234 offer arguably the most value for the money among the entire Rolex Air-King collection. In terms of price, they are negligibly more expensive than the 5-digit generation, but that extra money gets you a chronometer-certified movement, a solid-link bracelet with a redesigned clasp, and access to a number of unusual and colorful dial styles. With the popularity of the current production Air-King now bringing a greater amount of attention to this often overlooked Rolex collection, it is only natural for prices to increase across the board as an increasing number of people try to add them to their collections.

Ladies Rolex Watches

Ladies Rolex Models to Invest in:

• Ref. 169622
• Vintage Cocktail Watches

When purchasing women’s Rolex watches , some of the best investment pieces for 2021 come from older, discontinued models that are only now starting to experience a resurgence of appreciation. For many years, modern trends were all favoring larger watches for women, which has helped keep prices low for the classically sized 26mm models and other smaller watches from the brand’s history.

Models such as the two-tone Lady-Datejust ref. 69173 and solid 18k gold with diamond bezel Lady-President ref. 69138 offer all of the same quality and iconic styling that defines the brand today, just with 26mm cases that are slightly smaller than the current 28mm models that Rolex now produces. Both of these 26mm watches sell for roughly half the price of their newer 28mm counterparts on the pre-owned market, and women have taken note of the fantastic value that they offer. We have seen a big increase in the overall popularity of older 26mm ladies’ watches, and we only expect this to continue throughout the rest of 2021.

While the current smallest sports model is the Yacht-Master 37, Rolex previously produced both 35mm midsize and 29mm Lady Yacht-Master models, such as the ref. 169622. With a very manageable case diameter, the Rolex Lady Yacht-Master is an obvious choice for women who desire a model with a sporty design, but who do not want to wear a large or oversized watch. While it only represents a small premium in price compared to a standard two-tone Lady-Datejust from a similar era, the Lady Yacht-Master will likely only become more expensive in the coming years as it remains the only women’s sports watch Rolex has ever created during the modern era.

Before Rolex started using its Oyster case as the basis for all its watches outside the Cellini collection, the brand produced a number of incredibly small and elegant women’s timepieces that are today collectively known as Rolex ladies cocktail watches. Blurring the lines between timepieces and jewelry, these models are typically crafted from solid gold and often set with diamonds. However, due to their small size, inherently vintage aesthetic, and relative obscurity, you can pick up a solid yellow gold example with a diamond bezel for under $3k on the pre-owned market and we don’t expect that to be a value proposition that lasts forever.

About Bobs Watches Editorial

With over two decades of experience in the luxury watch industry, the Bob's Watches Editorial Team stands at the forefront of watch expertise and insight. Our team, composed of seasoned watch enthusiasts, skilled horologists, and knowledgeable industry insiders, is dedicated to bringing you the latest and most accurate information in the world of luxury timepieces. We pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail and our unwavering commitment to authenticity. Our editorial content is a reflection of our passion for luxury watches and our dedication to providing our readers with comprehensive, unbiased, and up-to-date information. Our expertise spans a wide range of topics, including in-depth reviews of the latest models, historical retrospectives of iconic timepieces, and insightful analyses of market trends. We are also renowned for our detailed guides on watch maintenance and investment advice, making us a trusted resource for both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts alike. As thought leaders in the watch industry, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve. That's why we continually update our knowledge and skills, ensuring that our readers receive the most current and relevant information. Whether you're seeking advice on your next luxury watch purchase or looking to deepen your understanding of watch craftsmanship, the Bob's Watches Editorial Team is here to guide you.

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