rolex oyster perpetual yacht master ii watch

aBlogtoWatch Monthly Giveaway

Win: Bausele Royal Australian Air Force Centenary 2021

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II Hands-On

For this reason, the Ring Command rotating bezel system was designed in a way so that it allows the wearer to set the regatta countdown to the desired time by rotating the bezel to the left by 90° and adjusting the easy-to-read red triangle hand to the desired position. Once the bezel is rotated back to its original position, the chronograph’s timer is locked. When this happens, the fly-back function of the chronograph allows the wearer to stop the running chronograph, reset it to the pre-set time between 5-10 minutes and start it again – all at a single press of the lower pusher. Rolex was thoughtful as ever: while the regatta timer’s setting can’t be messed up thanks to its locking by the bezel, the pushers are not locked by a stupid screw-down system (that wouldn’t belong on the Daytona either if they weren’t part of the recognized design). So while the Yacht-Master II is aptly water-resistant with its 100m (330ft) rating without screw-down pushers, the chronograph can be easily modulated on mark of the officials. All these are also incredibly useful features during the high-intensity moments of cooking pasta or boiling an egg – and it is here where I should add that the countdown can be set freely between 1 and 10 minutes on the Yacht-Master II, even if regatta races only need the 5-10 minute adjustability.

As recently as last year, Rolex has quietly restyled the Yacht-Master II by fitting what Rolex calls the Professional handset – and what us mortals often call the Mercedes hands. Prior to these, the YMII came fitted with stick hour and minute hands, and if its those that you liked better, well, I checked and there’s still plenty of brand new YMIIs on the market with those hands as well. It has to be said that the Professional hands perform here as they do on other Professional Rolexes (yes, that’s an official Rolex product category): the two main hands are easy to distinguish and, kudos to Rolex on this one, they don’t affect legibility either thanks to a few intelligent design choices.

First, the minute hand was skeletonized in a way so that its second half is hollow, therefore allowing for an easy and accurate reading of the regatta minute timer’s red triangle, should the two overlap. Although the hour hand is fixed to the column pinion above the red triangle hand, the latter is still large enough to stand out from underneath – as the circle wouldn’t overlap all of the triangle. Not as ideal as the two being the other way around with the regatta hand falling between the hour and minute hands, but I doubt this would cause any real issue.

I already mentioned how setting of the regatta timer works, but I did mean to add that setting it is either something you learn or won’t figure out. I wish I knew how many Yacht-Master II wearers were out there in the world right now who’d freak out if they were told the bezel on their watch could rotate. OK, that is an unfair assessment, so I’ll just tone it down to how many could set their regatta timer to 7 minutes immediately, without hesitation. I guess the percentage of those owners is about the same as that of those who know how to use the slide rules on their Navitimers, or those who at least once push their supercars to their limits. I’d imagine it’s a low, low percentage – which isn’t a bad thing or something to be mad about, just fun to think about.

On the wrist, the Yacht-Master II shows many faces. First of all, the material its case and bracelet are crafted from make a big difference. You can have the Yacht-Master II in all-Oystersteel and this is the least-expensive version with a retail price of around $19,000. Strangely, to my eyes at least, this all-steel model isn’t the least flashy version, because that’d be the Oystersteel-Everose gold Rolesor (Rolesor is Rolex-speak for two-tone). This $25k Rolesor version is one of the two pieces pictured in this article and it is this that I think is the least obtrusive one – because it combines the sensible message that two-tone sends, as opposed to the “look-at-me, I’m a big steel watch” vibe that the all-steel version seems to have going on.

Then things take a drastic, and I do mean drastic turn with the $44k all-yellow-gold version that makes you feel like you’re an aptly dressed extra in Wolf of Wall Street . Any all-gold Rolex is a statement watch, but while you can make a case for yourself wearing, say, a yellow gold Day-Date 40, this one right here is less of a President’s watch and more of a premiership footballer’s. There is something amusing about having a watch with this level of visual complexity and the ostentatiousness of yellow gold around the wrist. Still, as a practical joke, it’s not as good as this factory-bedazzled GMT , so yeah, you can always be one-upped, even within Rolex territory – so just get the two-tone. The end of the line is the piece with an all white gold bracelet and a platinum bezel that costs a good couple grand more than the yellow gold version.

With a properly sized bracelet –  not  as seen directly above – the two-tone, steel, and Everose gold versions make for a great everyday wearer, pretty much the same way an Audi R8 is a great everyday driver. The YMII is large at 44mm wide, but has a strangely good weight to it, especially in this configuration – the all-gold version is as heavy on the wrist as it is on the eyes.

At a time and age when people are buying perpetual calendars because “ do you even know how complicated it is ?” wearing a Yacht-Master II shouldn’t be as odd as it may at first appear. Its engineering is absolutely mind-boggling, more exotic, arguably more useful on a daily basis – for those who like the idea of getting their pasta al dente  with a $25,000 watch – and you can play with it at any given time, whereas touching a perpetual calendar the wrong way will make you wish you didn’t.

After all is said and done, the Yacht-Master II surprised me in a positive way and made me feel stupid for secretly disliking and ignoring it for so long. It’s a great piece of machinery with a styling to its case, bezel, and dial that can only truly be appreciated in the metal. It’s distinctly Rolex down to its last detail, but it’s also unlike any other Rolex ever. In the eerily classy steel-Everose combination, with its neatly labeled, blue ceramic bezel and crisp white dial with further Everose gold accents, it’s a visually pleasing watch that I wouldn’t mind wearing on a daily basis.

Now, my only worry is Rolex dropping this quirky, dedicated, and high-effort side and letting us all die without seeing a comparable exercise ever again. I am eager to see what their next unexpected, highly complicated piece is going to be. If you feel the same but don’t want to wait and have the money to spend, I’d recommend filling this void with the Yacht-Master II.

Prices for the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II range between around $19,000 and $48,000 , depending on the variation. rolex.com

By Category

Anytime. anywhere., by collection.

• Discover Rolex
• Rolex Watches
• New Watches 2024
• Watchmaking
• World of Rolex
• Rolex at Mayors

Cosmograph Daytona

• GMT-Master II

Lady-Datejust

Oyster Perpetual

Sea-Dweller

Sky-Dweller

Yacht-Master

• Men's Watches
• Ladies Watches
• Gold Watches

• Rolex Certified Pre-Owned
• Mens Watches
• New Arrivals
• Pre-Owned TAG Heuer
• Pre-Owned Breitling
• Pre-Owned OMEGA
• Pre-Owned Tudor

Watch Brands

• Arnold & Son
• Bell & Ross
• Carl F. Bucherer
• Girard-Perregaux
• Grand Seiko
• IWC Schaffhausen
• Jacob & Co
• Jaeger-LeCoultre
• Kross Studio
• L’epee 1839
• Massena LAB
• Nivada Grenchen
• NOMOS Glashütte
• Raymond Weil
• Speake Marin
• Ulysse Nardin
• Vacheron Constantin
• William Wood Watches

Jewelry Brands

• Bijoux Birks
• Mappin & Webb
• Marco Bicego
• Nouvel Heritage
• Pamela Love
• Paul Morelli
• Pasquale Bruni
• Penny Preville
• Roberto Coin
• Royal Asscher
• Serafino Consoli

• All Jewelry
• Bespoke Jewelry
• Yellow Gold

By Gemstone

• All Gemstones
• Luxury Jewelry
• Designer Jewelry
• Birthstones
• Mens Jewelry
• Wedding Jewelry
• Glacial Grandeur
• Naughty List
• Out Of Office
• Fireside Glamour
• Midnight Magic
• Grinch Glam
• Black Fri-Yay
• Spring Calls For Layers
• To Catch The Shimmer
• Stay Golden
• Passing Time
• Diamond Expression
• Force of Nature
• Feel The Glow

• All Engagement Rings
• Multi Stone

• Select a setting/diamond

• Ladies Rings
• Plain Rings
• Diamond Set Rings
• Eternity Rings
• All Wedding Jewelry
• Fashionable Bride
• Traditional Bride
• Glamorous Bride
• Romantic Bride
• Modern Bride
• Vintage Bride
• Sophisticated Bride
• All Wedding Looks

• Sell Your Watch

Brands we buy

• Shop by Category
• Shop All Watches
• All Watches
• Pre-Owned Watches
• Vintage Watches
• Cases & Accessories
• Moodymann Featuring Omega
• Medina Featuring Longines
• Shuto Featuring TAG Heuer
• Fantasy Featuring Omega
• Advantage In Featuring TAG Heuer
• Joel Hyppönen Featuring Ulysse Nardin
• Kodama Featuring Grand Seiko
• Best Sellers
• Exclusive Watches
• Dive Watches
• Smart Watches
• Dress Watches
• Sport Watches
• Pilot Watches
• Classic Watches
• Luxury Watches
• NOMOS Glashutte
• Shop All Pre-Owned
• Pre-Owned Home
• View All Brands
• Mappin & Webb
• Shop All Jewelry
• Glacial Grandeuer
• Shop All Engagement Rings
• Shop All Wedding Rings
• Wedding Day & Beyond
• Store Finder
• Request an Appointment
• Delivery Information
• Click & Collect
• Affirm Finance
• Mayors Credit Card

• Rolex watches
• New watches 2024

Rolex Yacht-Master Marine character

Launched in 1992, the Yacht-Master was designed specifically for navigators and skippers. This Professional-category watch provides a perfect blend of functionality and nautical style, making it equally at home on and off the water.

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master embodies the privileged ties between Rolex and the world of sailing that stretch back to the 1950s. Specially designed to meet the needs of sailors, it is a technical, elegant and sporty watch that is above all a useful and reliable nautical instrument.

An immediately recognizable bezel

The Yacht-Master is easily recognizable for its bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel made entirely from precious metal (Everose gold or platinum) or fitted with a black Cerachrom insert in high-technology ceramic. The raised polished graduations and numerals stand out clearly against a matt background. This characteristic and functional bezel – which enables the wearer to read time intervals, for example, the sailing time between two buoys – plays a full part in creating the unique visual identity of the watch.

Exclusive materials

Robust, accurate and perfectly waterproof, the Yacht-Master is one of the only Rolex Professional watches offered in several diameters (37, 40 and 42 mm).

The Yacht-Master 37 and Yacht-Master 40 are available in a Rolesium version (combining Oystersteel and platinum, exclusive to the Yacht-Master range) and in an Everose Rolesor version (combining Oystersteel and Everose gold) with a bezel in precious metal and fitted with an Oyster bracelet. Both models are also offered in 18 ct Everose gold featuring a Cerachrom bezel insert in black ceramic and an Oysterflex bracelet.

The Yacht-Master 42 is available in 18 ct yellow or white gold with an Oysterflex bracelet and in RLX titanium – a particularly lightweight alloy with excellent corrosion-resistance properties and high mechanical strength – with an Oyster bracelet. This version, unveiled in 2023, stands out for its technical satin finish, a finish with a visible grain.

Perpetual calibres 2236 and 3235

Yacht-Master models are equipped with calibre 2236 (Yacht-Master 37) or calibre 3235 (Yacht-Master 40 and Yacht-Master 42), self-winding mechanical movements entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. They offer outstanding performance, particularly in terms of precision, power reserve, convenience and reliability. Both movements’ power reserve extends to approximately 70 hours.

Superlative Chronometer certification

Like all Rolex timepieces, the Yacht-Master is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification. This designation testifies that every watch leaving the brand’s workshops has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories, according to its own criteria. The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolized by a green seal and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.

Keep exploring

GMT-Master-II

Shop New Arrivals

Rolex Yacht-Master vs Yacht-Master II Watch Comparison

Within the greater Rolex Yacht-Master collection, there are two very different lines of watches. Although they share a similar name and are even members of the same collection, the Rolex Yacht-Master and the Yacht-Master II are very different timepieces, both inside and out. Historically, the “II” designation at the end of Rolex watch names has been used to denote an evolution or upgrade to the existing line of watches. However, the Yacht-Master II is not an update to any of Rolex’s previous watch lines, and is truly unlike anything that has ever appeared before in a Rolex catalog.

So, what exactly are the differences between the Rolex Yacht-Master and the Rolex Yacht-Master II? Read the rest of our comparison guide to find out.

Rolex Yacht-Master

Yacht-Master Collection Key Details:

• Year of Introduction: 1992
• Case Size: 29mm (discontinued), 35mm (discontinued), 37mm, 40mm, 42mm
• Materials: Rolesium (stainless steel & platinum), Yellow Rolesor (stainless steel & yellow gold), Everose Rolesor (stainless steel & Everose gold), 18k Yellow Gold, 18k White Gold, 18k Everose Gold
• Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display, Elapsed Time Bezel
• Bezel: Bidirectional, Gold/Platinum/Ceramic w/ 60-Minute Scale
• Dial: Multiple Options Available w/ Luminous or Gem-Set Hour Markers
• Luminous Material: Tritium, Luminova, Super-LumiNova, Chromalight
• Crystal: Sapphire (Flat w/ Cyclops Lens)
• Movement: Automatic, Chronometer Certified
• Water Resistance: 100 Meters / 330 Feet
• Strap/Bracelet: Oyster or Oysterflex Bracelet

Click here for our Ultimate Buying Guide on the Rolex Yacht-Master.

Rolex Yacht-Master II

Yacht-Master II CollectionKey Details:

• Year of Introduction: 2007
• Case Size: 44mm
• Materials: Oystersteel (904L stainless steel), Everose Rolesor (stainless steel & Everose gold), 18k Yellow Gold, 18k White Gold (discontinued),
• Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Programmable Countdown Timer w/ Mechanical Memory and Flyback/Fly-Forward Functionality
• Bezel: Ring Command, Blue Cerachrom or 950 Platinum w/ 10-Minute Countdown Scale
• Dial: White w/ Luminous Hour Markers
• Luminous Material: Chromalight
• Crystal: Sapphire (Flat)
• Strap/Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet

Click here for our Ultimate Buying Guide on the Rolex Yacht-Master II.

Design: Yacht-Master vs Yacht-Master II

First released in 1992 as a luxury-oriented version of the traditional Rolex sport watch, the original Yacht-Master model did not have any specific features or complications that would make it specifically tailored to boating or regatta races. Featuring a fairly standard depth rating of 100 meters and a bi-directional rotating bezel crafted entirely from either solid 18-karat gold or 950 platinum, the Yacht-Master is a watch that is designed for those who enjoy the aesthetic of sport watches, but whose lifestyles do not actually require all of their highly-specialized functionality.

With a 40mm case, a traditional 3-hand display, and a dial that follows the usual Rolex sport watch design, the appearance of the original Yacht-Master can most accurately be described as a luxury-oriented version of Rolex’s iconic Submariner. Although a few key aesthetic differences help distinguish it from Rolex’s other lines of watches, the overall design of the Yacht-Master is one that is fundamentally similar to the classic Rolex sport watch.

In contrast, the Rolex Yacht-Master II is a highly specialized regatta chronograph that features a programmable countdown timer with mechanical memory that allows for on-the-fly synchronization to the official countdown clock with both flyback and fly-forward functionality. With a case diameter of 44mm, and a bezel (and dial) design that are specifically designed for use with its regatta timer, the Rolex Yacht-Master II is a watch that was designed from the ground up for boat racing.

Movements: Yacht-Master vs Yacht-Master II

Although the aesthetic differences between the Rolex Yacht-Master and the Yacht-Master II are rather dramatic, an even bigger difference lies in the two movements that are used to power each watch. While one movement follows a conventional time plus date setup, the other is a totally unique and highly specialized movement that is unlike anything found inside any other watch.

The current versions of both the standard 40mm men’s size Yacht-Master and its larger 42mm sibling are powered by Rolex’s Caliber 3235 movement, which is Rolex’s latest three-handed, date-displaying movement that can be found throughout a variety of its current-production watches. While it does offer a longer 70-hour power reserve compared to the previous generation of movement, the overall functionality of the Caliber 3235 is not unlike what you will find from many other self-winding mechanical movements.

On the other hand, the Yacht-Master II houses Rolex’s state-of-the-art Caliber 4161 chronograph movement, which is made up of more than 360 components and packed full of Rolex’s latest and most innovative technologies. The patented function of the Caliber 4161 movement is so highly specialized and unique, that some of the parts of the movement must be made by UV-LiGA, a micro-manufacturing technology that has been mastered entirely in-house by Rolex.

Subtle Differences: Yacht-Master Vs Yacht-Master II

Given how little the Rolex Yacht-Master and the Yacht-Master II resemble one another, some of the less obvious differences can often be eclipsed by the stark visual separation between the two lines of watches. Among the almost endless list of aesthetic differences between the two timepieces are a number of other differences that pertain to a specific part or function of the watch.

From a visual perspective, the bezel on the Yacht-Master and the bezel on the Yacht-Master II could not look anything less alike. Consequently, it can be easy to overlook how differently they function, and how differently the various parts attach to their respective watches. The precious metal bezel on the Yacht-Master has a 60-minute scale in relief upon it, and it has been given bidirectional motion so that it can be used as a rudimentary timer. This type of bezel function is common on sport watches, and can be found on a number of different timepieces, from a wide variety of manufacturers.

On the Rolex Yacht-Master II, the bright-blue Cerachrom insert with 0 to 10-scale and “Yacht-Master II” name in large letters gives the bezel a truly unique appearance. The look is so distinct that one could easily overlook the special function of the Yacht-Master II’s bezel. Unlike traditional rotating bezels that are simply connected to the exterior of the watch, the Ring Command bezel on the Yacht-Master II links the outer rotating bezel to the internal works of the movement, allowing for easier and more efficient setting of the Yacht-Master II’s adjustable countdown timer.

Both the Yacht-Master and the Yacht-Master II are excellent luxury watches from Rolex; however, in terms of functionality and appearance, the two timepieces could not be any further apart. One watch adheres to the traditional form and function of the classic Rolex sports watch, while the other is an entirely new approach to the regatta chronograph that is unlike anything that Rolex has ever put forward. Due to how different they are, neither timepiece can be said to be “better” than the other. Instead, the Rolex Yacht-Master line as a whole benefits from the diversity of the various watches that make up its collection.

About Paul Altieri

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

Bob's Watches Blog Updates

Sign up and be the first to read exclusive articles and the latest horological news.

Bob's Watches / Rolex Blog / Rolex Info

Recommended Articles

Rolex Oysterdate Precision 6694 Ultimate Buying Guide

The Rolex Yacht-Master II Reference 116681

Dawn Patrol: Cruising With the Rolex Deepsea in the New Rolls-Royce

You may also like.

Patek Philippe Gondolo

Patek Philippe Gondolo 18k Yellow Gold on Leather Strap

Rolex GMT-Master

Rolex GMT-Master II Ref 126718 18k Yellow Gold Jubilee

Rolex Sea-Dweller

Pre-Owned Rolex Sea-Dweller 126603

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

• Welcome to Louis Anthony Jewelers!
• Address 1775 North Highland Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15241
• Phone 412.854.0310

• Compare Products

Rolex Yacht-Master

• Rolex watches

• Yacht-Master

Launched in 1992, the Yacht-Master was designed specifically for navigators and skippers. This Professional-category watch provides a perfect blend of functionality and nautical style, making it equally at home on and off the water.

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master embodies the privileged ties between Rolex and the world of sailing that stretch back to the 1950s. Specially designed to meet the needs of sailors, it is a technical, elegant and sporty watch that is above all a useful and reliable nautical instrument.

An immediately recognizable bezel

The Yacht-Master is easily recognizable for its bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel made entirely from precious metal (Everose gold or platinum) or fitted with a black Cerachrom insert in high-technology ceramic. The raised polished graduations and numerals stand out clearly against a matte background. This characteristic and functional bezel – which enables the wearer to read time intervals, for example, the sailing time between two buoys – plays a full part in creating the unique visual identity of the watch.

Exclusive materials

Robust, accurate and perfectly waterproof, the Yacht-Master is one of the only Rolex Professional watches offered in several diameters (37, 40 and 42 mm).

The Yacht-Master 37 and Yacht-Master 40 are available in a Rolesium version (combining Oystersteel and platinum, exclusive to the Yacht-Master range) and in an Everose Rolesor version (combining Oystersteel and Everose gold) with a bezel in precious metal and fitted with an Oyster bracelet. Both models are also offered in 18 kt Everose gold featuring a Cerachrom bezel insert in black ceramic and an Oysterflex bracelet.

The Yacht-Master 42 is available in 18 kt yellow or white gold with an Oysterflex bracelet and in RLX titanium – a particularly lightweight alloy with excellent corrosion-resistance properties and high mechanical strength – with an Oyster bracelet. This version, unveiled in 2023, stands out for its technical satin finish, a finish with a visible grain.

Perpetual calibers 2236 and 3235

Yacht-Master models are equipped with caliber 2236 (Yacht-Master 37) or caliber 3235 (Yacht-Master 40 and Yacht-Master 42), self-winding mechanical movements entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. They offer outstanding performance, particularly in terms of precision, power reserve, convenience and reliability. Both movements’ power reserve extends to approximately 70 hours.

Superlative Chronometer certification

Like all Rolex timepieces, the Yacht-Master is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification. This designation testifies that every watch leaving the brand’s workshops has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories, according to its own criteria. The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolized by a green seal and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.

Rolex Yacht-Master A selection of models

©1992-2024, Louis Anthony Jewelers, All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy |   Sitemap

• Rolex Certified Pre-Owned
• Brands Featured Rolex Rolex Certified Pre-Owned Breitling Cartier Hublot IWC Schaffhausen OMEGA TAG Heuer TUDOR Brands A-Z 886 by The Royal Mint Amor Accurist Arnold & Son BALL Bamford Baume & Mercier Bell & Ross Bijoux Birks BOSS Breitling Bremont BVLGARI Calvin Klein Cartier Certina CHANEL Chopard   Citizen DOXA Elliot Brown Emporio Armani Encelade 1789 Fabergé FENDI FOPE FRED Frederique Constant Garmin Georg Jensen Gerald Charles Girard-Perregaux Glashütte Original Goldsmiths Grand Seiko Gucci   Hamilton Hublot ID Genève IKEPOD IWC Schaffhausen Jacob & Co Jaeger-LeCoultre Jenny Packham Junghans Kiki McDonough Lauren By Ralph Lauren Longines Louis Erard --> Mappin & Webb Marco Bicego MARIA TASH Maurice Lacroix MeisterSinger --> Michael Kors Messika   Mondaine Montblanc Nivada Grenchen NOMOS Glashütte NORQAIN Olivia Burton OMEGA Oris Panerai Parmigiani Fleurier Pasquale Bruni Piaget Pomellato QLOCKTWO Rado RAYMOND WEIL Repossi Roberto Coin Sekonda -->   Rolex Rolex Certified Pre-Owned Seiko Skagen Susan Caplan SUZANNE KALAN SWAROVSKI Swiss Capsule --> TAG Heuer Ted Baker THOMAS SABO Tissot Tommy Hilfiger TUDOR Ulysse Nardin Vivienne Westwood William Wood Watches WOLF ZENITH

• Sell Your Watch Sell your watch We will expertly assess your watch and offer you a competitive and accurate valuation for the watch you wish to sell to us. Free Instant Valuation Drop off at any Showroom Unrivalled Knowledge & Expertise Get Your Valuation Information Get a Valuation Sell Your Watch FAQ Terms & Conditions

• Shop by Category
• Shop All Sale
• All Sale Jewellery
• Diamond Jewellery
• Engagement Rings
• Wedding Rings
• Eternity Rings
• All Sale Watches
• Mens Watches
• Ladies Watches
• Luxury Watches
• Designer Watches
• Mappin & Webb
• Vivienne Westwood
• View All Brands
• Less Than £50
• £101 - £250
• £251 - £500
• £501 - £1,000
• £1,001 - £2,500
• £2,501 - £5,000
• More Than £5,000
• Diamond Jewellery Offers
• Shop All Diamonds
• Diamonds Home
• Diamond Bracelets
• Diamond Earrings
• Diamond Necklaces
• Diamond Rings
• Diamond Gifts
• Bridal Sets
• Bijoux Birks
• Jenny Packham
• SUZANNE KALAN
• Goldsmiths Brightest Diamond
• Limited Edition
• Engagement Ring Offers
• Shop All Engagement Rings
• Engagement Rings Home
• Diamond Engagement Rings
• Coloured Gemstones Rings
• Solitaire Rings
• Three Stone Rings
• Cluster Rings
• Vintage Rings

• Yellow Gold
• 20% Off Selected Wedding Rings
• Wedding Ring Offers
• Shop All Wedding Rings
• Wedding Rings Home
• Ladies Rings
• Diamond Set
• Shop All Bridal Jewellery
• Bespoke Wedding Rings
• Bespoke Eternity Rings
• Recycled Wedding Rings
• Wedding Guide
• Jewellery Offers
• Shop All Jewellery
• Jewellery Home
• Men's Jewellery
• Jewellery Gifts
• Cases & Boxes
• All Gold Jewellery
• Pearl Jewellery
• Ruby Jewellery
• Sapphire Jewellery
• All Coloured Gemstones
• All Gemstone Jewellery
• 886 by The Royal Mint
• Calvin Klein
• Emporio Armani
• Georg Jensen
• Kiki McDonough
• Lauren By Ralph Lauren
• Marco Bicego
• Michael Kors
• Olivia Burton
• Pasquale Bruni
• Roberto Coin
• Susan Caplan
• THOMAS SABO
• Tommy Hilfiger
• Team GB x Mappin & Webb
• Luxury Jewellery
• Designer Jewellery
• Vintage Jewellery
• Online Exclusives
• Birthstones
• Ear Curation
• Luxury Collection
• Watch Offers
• Shop All Watches
• Watches Home
• Pre-Owned Watches
• Cases & Accessories
• Watch Winders
• Watches & Wonders 2024
• Best Sellers
• Classic Watches
• Limited Editions
• Diamond Watches
• Dive Watches
• Smart Watches
• Baume & Mercier
• Bell & Ross
• Frederique Constant
• Girard-Perregaux
• Glashütte Original
• Grand Seiko
• IWC Schaffhausen
• Jaeger-LeCoultre
• MeisterSinger
• Nivada Grenchen
• NOMOS Glashütte
• RAYMOND WEIL
• Ulysse Nardin
• Maurice Lacroix
• Discover Rolex
• Rolex Watches
• New Watches 2024
• Watchmaking
• World of Rolex
• Rolex at Goldsmiths
• Cosmograph Daytona
• GMT-Master II
• Lady-Datejust
• Oyster Perpetual
• Sea-Dweller
• Sky-Dweller
• Yacht-Master
• Arnold & Son
• Elliot Brown
• Encelade 1789
• Gerald Charles
• Parmigiani Fleurier
• William Wood Watches
• Gifts For Her
• Gifts For Him
• Watch Gifts
• Jewellery Cases
• £5,000 - £10,000
• More Than £10,000
• Shop All Pre-Owned
• Pre-Owned Home
• New Arrivals
• Pre-Owned Patek Philippe
• Pre-Owned TAG Heuer
• Pre-Owned Cartier
• Pre-Owned Jaeger-LeCoultre
• Pre-Owned Breitling
• Pre-Owned OMEGA
• Pre-Owned Longines
• Pre-Owned Tudor
• Pre-Owned IWC
• Pre-Owned Panerai
• Pre-Owned Blancpain
• Pre-Owned Breguet
• Pre-Owned Chopard
• Pre-Owned Rado
• Pre-Owned Vacheron Constantin
• Pre-Owned Zenith
• Sell Your Watch
• Calibre - Watch News & Inspiration
• The Jewellery Edit - Jewellery News & Inspiration
• Store Finder
• Book an Appointment
• Delivery Information
• Click & Collect
• Returns & Refunds
• Payment Options
• Finance Options
• Rolex Certified Pre-Owned at Goldsmiths
• Our Selection
• The Rolex Certification
• Show Next Day Delivery On Off
• Click & Collect (123)
• Next Day Delivery (27)
• £5,001 - £10,000 (2)
• Over £10,000 (121)
• Platinum (21)
• Rhodium (7)
• Chocolate (3)
• Automatic (121)
• Oystersteel and Platinum (45)
• 18ct Everose Gold (27)
• Platinum (13)
• Oystersteel (12)
• Oystersteel and Everose Gold (11)
• 18ct White Gold and Platinum (8)
• 18ct Yellow Gold (3)
• 18ct White Gold (2)
• 18ct Yellow Gold & Platinum (1)
• Oystersteel and Yellow Gold (1)
• Large size (30)

© 2024 Goldsmiths

Goldsmiths is a trading name of Watches of Switzerland Company Limited. Registered Office: Aurum House, 2 Elland Road, Braunstone, Leicester, LE3 1TT, Registered in England and Wales, Company number 00146087. Registered VAT Number 834 8634 04. Watches of Switzerland Company Limited acts as a broker and not a lender and offers finance from Secure Trust Bank PLC trading as V12 Retail Finance and PayPal UK Ltd, Whittaker House, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond-Upon-Thames, Surrey, United Kingdom, TW9 1EH trading as PayPal Credit. Watches of Switzerland Company Limited is authorised and regulated by the Finance Conduct Authority. Our registration number is 308710. Credit provided is subject to age and status, minimum spend applies. Terms and Conditions apply. UK residents only. We may receive a commission if your application is successful, and the amount may vary depending on the product chosen and the amount of credit taken out. Not all products are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and FOS protection will not be extended to unregulated agreements. Please note the Consumer Credit Act states that should your purchase / loan amount cost more than £30,000 you will not be covered under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.

*Next day delivery available on most items. See product pages for more information.

• Skip to content
• Skip to footer

• Français

GMT-Master II

THE COSMOPOLITAN WATCH

The Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II was designed to display the time in two different time zones simultaneously. Robust and functional, it is the ideal watch for criss-crossing the globe.

In function as well as in name, the GMT-Master II evokes long-distance travel across time zones. Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) marks mean solar time at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London – historically the location of the official prime meridian used for calculating longitude and determining different time zones around the world. A cosmopolitan watch, the GMT-Master II is designed for those who criss-cross the globe or whose activities take place simultaneously across several time zones.

ACROSS TIME ZONES Launched in 1955, the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master witnessed the rapid expansion of intercontinental travel in the latter half of the 20th century. It even became the official watch of Pan American World Airways, better known worldwide as Pan Am, the most prominent American intercontinental airline at the time. In 1959, a major event marked the partnership: the first non-stop Pan Am Jet Clipper flight from New York to Moscow. The captain was wearing a GMT-Master, which was used as a navigation aid during the flight. The GMT-Master, a true ‘tool watch’, evolved continually to offer increasing technical performance. In 1982, Rolex introduced a new movement that allowed the hour hand to be set independently of the other hands. To clearly mark this evolution, and to avoid any confusion with the GMT-Master, the model fitted with the optimized movement was named the GMT-Master II.

24-HOUR DISPLAY AND INDEPENDENT HOUR HAND In addition to conventional hour, minute and seconds hands, which display the local time (the time in the wearer’s current location), the GMT-Master II features an arrow-tipped hand which circles the dial once every 24 hours, as well as a bidirectional rotatable bezel and a 24-hour graduated monobloc Cerachrom insert in two-colour ceramic. When the bezel is in the neutral position, that is with the triangle at 12 o’clock, the 24-hour hand displays a reference time (home time, for example), which can be read using the graduations on the bezel . When abroad, travellers can set the local time easily, with the hour hand ‘ jumping ’ from hour to hour thanks to a mechanism operated via the winding crown. The adjustment can be made independently of the minute and seconds hands, and without affecting the 24-hour hand. As a result, travellers can simultaneously read their local time as well as the reference time .

ROTATABLE BEZEL AND ALTERNATIVE TIME ZONE The time in an alternative time zone can be displayed by simply turning the rotatable bezel. In this case, the reference time is no longer shown, as it is the alternative time zone that is now read via the 24-hour hand against the graduations on the bezel. The bezel was carefully designed to ideally fulfil its function. Rolex developed a bezel rotation system with a trigonal spring that allows the bezel to be turned crisply and securely in either direction and locate with a positive click in each of the 24 different hour positions. The bezel can be turned with ease thanks to its knurled edge, which offers excellent grip.

CERACHROM BEZEL INSERT The bidirectional rotatable bezel of the GMT-Master II is equipped with a 24-hour graduated, monobloc two-colour Cerachrom insert. This patented insert is made of extremely hard, virtually scratchproof ceramics whose colours are unaffected by ultraviolet rays. In addition, thanks to its chemical composition, the high-tech ceramic is inert and cannot corrode. The moulded, recessed graduations and numerals are coated with gold or platinum using a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) process. Over and above its functions and its intrinsic technical assets, the bezel of the GMT-Master II contributes to the model’s strong visual identity. In 2013, Rolex broke new ground when it introduced its first single-piece, two-colour ceramic bezel insert – blue on one half and black on the other – on an Oystersteel version of the GMT-Master II. A year later, it unveiled the two-colour bezel insert in red and blue ceramic, on a GMT-Master II in 18 ct white gold. In 2018, the brand presented a two-colour bezel insert in brown and black ceramic, on two variants of the GMT-Master II – one in 18 ct Everose gold and the other in an Everose Rolesor version (combining Oystersteel and Everose gold). The two-colour bezel insert in green and black ceramic was introduced in 2022 on an Oystersteel GMT-Master II with the winding crown on the left side of the case and the date aperture at 9 o’clock – the only Rolex watch with this configuration. In 2023, a two-colour Cerachrom insert in grey – a new shade – and black was unveiled on two variants of the model, one in a yellow Rolesor version (combining Oystersteel and yellow gold) and the other crafted entirely from 18 ct yellow gold. These Cerachrom inserts blend the exceptional resistance of high-technology ceramic with the iconic aesthetics of the original GMT-Master.

THE GMT-MASTER II, SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER CERTIFIED Like all Rolex watches, the GMT-Master II is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification redefined by Rolex in 2015. This exclusive designation testifies that every watch leaving the brand’s workshops has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories and according to its own criteria. These certification tests apply to the fully assembled watch, after casing the movement, guaranteeing superlative performance on the wrist in terms of precision, power reserve, waterproofness and self-winding. The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolized by the green seal that comes with every Rolex watch and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee. The precision of every movement – officially certified as a chronometer by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) – is tested a second time by Rolex after being cased, to ensure that it meets criteria that are far stricter than those of the official certification. The precision of a Rolex Superlative Chronometer is of the order of −2/+2 seconds per day – the rate deviation tolerated by the brand for a finished watch is significantly smaller than that accepted by COSC for official certification of the movement alone. The Superlative Chronometer certification testing is carried out after casing using state-of-the-art equipment specially developed by Rolex and according to an exclusive protocol that simulates the conditions in which a watch is actually worn and more closely represents real-life experience. The entirely automated series of tests also checks the waterproofness, the self-winding capacity and the power reserve of 100 per cent of Rolex watches. These tests systematically complement the qualification testing during development and production, in order to ensure the watches’ reliability, robustness, and resistance to strong magnetic fields and to shocks.

THE OYSTER CASE, SYMBOL OF WATERPROOFNESS The GMT-Master II’s Oyster case, 40 mm in diameter and guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet), is a paragon of robustness and reliability. The middle case is crafted from a solid block of Oystersteel or 18 ct gold. The case back, edged with fine fluting, is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that allows only certified Rolex watchmakers to access the movement. The Triplock winding crown, fitted with a triple waterproofness system and protected by an integral crown guard, screws down securely against the case. The crystal, with a Cyclops lens for easy reading of the date at 3 o’clock – or at 9 o’clock on the version with the winding crown on the left side of the case – is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire and benefits from an anti-reflective coating. The waterproof Oyster case provides optimal protection for the movement it houses.

CALIBRE 3285 The GMT-Master II is equipped with calibre 3285, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. A consummate demonstration of technology, this movement carries a number of patents. It offers outstanding performance, particularly in terms of precision, power reserve, convenience and reliability.

Calibre 3285 incorporates the patented Chronergy escapement, made of nickel-phosphorus, which combines high energy efficiency with great dependability and is also resistant to strong magnetic fields.

The movement is fitted with the blue Parachrom hairspring, manufactured by Rolex in a paramagnetic alloy. In addition to resisting strong magnetic fields, this hairspring offers great stability in the face of temperature variations as well as high resistance to shocks. It is equipped with a Rolex overcoil, ensuring the calibre’s regularity in any position.

The oscillator of calibre 3285 has a large balance wheel with variable inertia regulated extremely precisely via gold Microstella nuts. It is held firmly in place by a height-adjustable traversing bridge enabling very stable positioning to increase shock resistance. The oscillator is also mounted on the Rolex-designed, patented high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers, further enhancing the movement’s shock resistance.

Calibre 3285 is equipped with a self-winding system via a Perpetual rotor, which ensures continuous winding of the mainspring by harnessing the movements of the wrist to provide a constant source of energy. Its oscillating weight has been fitted with an optimized ball bearing since 2023. Thanks to its barrel architecture and the escapement’s superior efficiency, the power reserve of this movement extends to approximately 70 hours.

The GMT-Master II’s movement will be seen only by certified Rolex watchmakers, yet it is beautifully finished and decorated. Since 2023, it has also been marked with the words ‘Chronometer Perpetual’ and ‘Superlative Adjusted’ engraved respectively on the oscillating weight and on the bridges.

BRACELET AND CLASP: SECURE AND COMFORTABLE The GMT-Master II is available on a three-piece link Oyster bracelet or a five-piece link Jubilee bracelet. These two bracelets are equipped with a Rolex-designed, patented Oysterlock safety clasp that prevents accidental opening. They are fitted with the Easylink comfort extension link, developed by the brand, which allows the wearer to easily increase the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm, providing additional comfort in any circumstance. On the 18 ct gold versions of the GMT-Master II, the Oyster and Jubilee bracelets include ceramic inserts – designed by Rolex and patented – inside the links to enhance their flexibility and longevity.

Related content

Sky-Dweller

Perpetual Planet Initiative

Poles, Mountains and Forests Moment

A celebration of those venturing to the furthest reaches of the planet.

Since the 1930s, we have supported the world’s most intrepid explorers, including equipping the first expedition that successfully scaled Mount Everest some 70 years ago. Since then, we have moved from championing exploration for the sake of discovery to exploration aiding efforts to preserve fragile ecosystems.

Today, the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative supports conservation across vast areas of Earth, such as the Amazon River basin. The “Poles, Mountains and Forests Moment” is a celebration of those venturing to the furthest reaches of the planet in an effort to protect it for future generations.