Rolex YachtMaster

Rolex YachtMaster

In 1985 Rolex had filed for a patent for a ‘Chronometer for starting races, particularly regattas’. The single hand chronograph described has the dial divided in a first sector from 12 to 6 o’clock for the first 9,5 minutes of the countdown, and a second sector from 6 to 12 o’clock for the final 30 seconds. Thus the hand would move at a low speed first, to change to a higher speed during the last half minute.

After the succesful introduction of the Yacht-Master series in 1992, Rolex unveiled their new Yacht-Master II in 2007. This regatta chronograph is equipped with their new manufacture caliber 4160, and is the first watch in the world equipped with a programmable countdown function from 1 to 10 minutes with a mechanical memory. At first introduced in 2010 the watch was sold in Yellow Gold (116688) or in White Gold (116689). One year later in 2011, a new model in steel and everose Gold (116681) was introduced. All models have a COSC chronometer certification.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II Regatta Chronograph

• Reference:

1. 116688 case and bracelet of 18 kt yellow gold.
2. 116689 case and bracelet of white gold and platinum..
3. 116681 case and bracelet of 18 kt rose gold / steel, since 2011.

• Caliber: automatic Rolex caliber 4160.
• Case size: Ø 44 mm.
• Year: since 2010

Movement

• Make: Rolex.
• Caliber: 4160.
• Type: automatic movement with yachttimer function.
• Size: ?
• Frequency: 28.800 A/h.
• Power reserve: 72 hours.
• Jewels: 42.
• Shock protection system: ?

In 2013 a 4th more affordable version in steel, reference 116680 (case and bracelet in stainless steel and blue cerachrom bezel), is added to the Yacht-Master II series. The movement changed from caliber 4160 to caliber 4161. Besides some minor changes this is probably just for marketing reasons.

Credits - http://www.regatta-yachttimers.com/brands/rolex/

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