ROLEX YACHT-MASTER
Launched in 1992, the Yacht-Master adapts Rolex sports-watch construction to a more polished nautical design. The collection spans 37, 40, and 42 mm cases in Rolesium, Rolesor, gold on Oysterflex, and lightweight RLX titanium.
No Rolex Yacht-Master watches are available right now. Contact our specialists below to source a specific reference.
Model History & Buyer Guide
Yacht-Master: Rolex’s Polished Nautical Sports Watch
A Different Kind of Rotating Bezel
Introduced in 1992, the Yacht-Master uses a bidirectional 60-minute bezel for timing intervals on the water. Unlike the Submariner’s unidirectional dive bezel, it is not a professional saturation-diving instrument and is rated to 100 metres.
Rolesium pairs Oystersteel with a platinum bezel; Rolesor mixes steel and gold. Current precious-metal 40 and 42 mm versions often use Oysterflex, while reference 226627 introduced RLX titanium to the line.
Size and Material Define the Experience
Current 37 and 40 mm references use calibre 2236 or 3235 depending on size, while 42 mm models use calibre 3235. The same design can therefore feel compact, traditionally sporty, or unusually light in titanium.
The Yacht-Master II is a separate 44 mm regatta chronograph and should not be included here. Listings should be checked carefully because sellers often shorten both names to Yachtmaster.
Rolex Yacht-Master Price Guide
Indicative secondary-market ranges in US dollars, researched from current market estimates and live dealer listings and updated August 2026. These are not fixed valuations: condition, originality, production year, service history, and completeness can move an individual watch outside the range.
| Reference | Configuration | Typical Pre-Owned Price | Market Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 126622 | 40 mm Rolesium, Oystersteel and platinum | $12,500 — $15,500 | Rhodium and blue dials remain key variants |
| 126621 | 40 mm Everose Rolesor | $15,500 — $18,500 | Dial and condition account for much of the spread |
| 226659 / 226658 | 42 mm gold on Oysterflex | $29,000 — $36,000 | White- and yellow-gold references trade differently |
| 226627 | 42 mm RLX titanium | $25,000 — $30,000 | Low weight and supply support a premium |
Understanding Yacht-Master
Material choice changes weight and appearance more dramatically here than on most Rolex sports families.
| Feature | Function | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Bidirectional bezel | Times short intervals in either direction | Useful on deck but distinct from a dive-safety bezel |
| Raised numerals | Creates the model’s relief bezel scale | Bezel wear and refinishing are visually obvious |
| Oysterflex | Metal-blade elastomer bracelet | Requires correct blade size for comfortable fit |
Reference-Level Buying Checklist
Use the exact reference—not the family name alone—to verify the following points before purchase.
| Check | What to Verify | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model identity | Yacht-Master rather than Yacht-Master II | They use different cases, movements, functions, and prices |
| Bezel | Relief numerals, finish, rotation, and damage | Platinum and precious-metal bezels are costly to replace |
| Oysterflex size | Both strap-half codes and clasp adjustment | Unlike removable links, fit depends on strap lengths |
Frequently Asked Questions
About Yacht-Master
Is the Yacht-Master a dive watch?
It has an Oyster case and 100 m rating, but its bidirectional bezel and positioning differ from the 300 m Submariner dive watch.
What does Rolesium mean?
On the Yacht-Master it describes an Oystersteel case and bracelet paired with a platinum bezel.
Why is the titanium Yacht-Master notable?
Reference 226627 combines a 42 mm case with RLX titanium, producing much lower wrist weight than steel or gold versions.
NYC Diamond District
Looking for a Specific Yacht-Master Reference?
Our specialists can compare references, movements, condition, service history, and set completeness. Contact Atlas Luxury for current Yacht-Master availability or help sourcing a particular configuration.