Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. The new Generation of Rolex Yacht-Master II, Reference 126680 & 126688
The complex regatta chronograph by Rolex is back, in a deeply updated version and a sleeker look.
After an absence from the catalogue for two years, one of Rolex’s most complicated watches makes a return: the Yacht Master II. And it’s not just an update in looks, as the new ref. 126680 and Ref. 126688 carry forward the torch of this unique collection set in motion in 2007 and redefined in 2017, with a newly developed movement. Available in Oystersteel or 18k yellow gold, this is the rundown of the new Rolex Yacht Master II collection.
Concise history of the Yacht-Master II
The Rolex Yacht-Master collection was first released in 1992. And it was an important one, being one of the very few entirely new collections since the launch of the Daytona in 1963, alongside the Oysterquartz (which has been key for the launch of the Land Dweller last year). The inaugural YM was meant as a luxurious nautical timepiece. The Yacht-Master II, which was released in 2007, had a far more niche vocation: being Rolex’s take on the regatta chronograph.
As such, the YM2 was a fairly impressive watch with often overlooked functions. As a tool for yacht racing, it was and still is one of the most compelling models on the market. Unfortunately, this specific intention of the watch was often in the shadows of its luxurious appeal, large dimensions and bold design.
With a 44 mm diameter case, the Yacht-Master II immediately stands out. Inherently a chronograph, it features classic pushers on the right side as well as a unique bezel with a programmable memory function. What made it unique, besides its size and function, was its high-end price positioning, despite being in the professional collection. It was designed to assist skippers in keeping track of time during the complicated starting sequence of a regatta, which necessitated the creation of an entirely new movement, the calibre 4160 and later calibre 4161.
The first versions of the Rolex Yacht-Master II, unveiled in 2007, were the yellow gold 116688 and the white gold version with a platinum bezel, the reference 116689. In 2011, Rolex unveiled an Everose Rolesor edition, the 116681, followed by a full-steel model in 2013, the reference 116680, which also introduced an updated movement, the Calibre 4161, replacing the former Calibre 4160.
For the model’s 10th anniversary, the Yacht-Master II was updated with redesigned applied markers and Mercedes hands. The rest of the watch remained identical, and even the reference numbers stayed the same. The Rolex Yacht-Master II collection was discontinued entirely in April 2024, as the watch, potentially due to its large case and bold looks, was not finding much success anymore.
The 2026 Rolex Yacht-Master II reference 126680 & 126688
Much to our surprise, considering that the watch was out of the collection for 2 years, the Yacht-Master II is back, but in a deeply revised version. And it’s not just aesthetic updates we are talking about, as the mechanical side of things is also updated. The biggest change is the dial, so let’s start there.
The previous Yacht Master II was characterised by the unique regatta timing scale on the dial. While the watch has lost nothing of its functionality, the entire dial, finished in matte white lacquer, has been restyled. Most notably, the regatta scale is gone and has instead been moved to a newly profiled flange on the outer perimeter. The applied markers, as well as the hour & minute hands, are in white or yellow gold depending on the reference, and finished with Cerachrom inserts. The hands also differ in finish, with red lacquer details on the 126680 and yellow gold on the 126688.
Moving to the exterior, the new Yacht Master II measures 44mm across and 13.90mm in height. The case is either in Oystersteel or 18k yellow gold, as you can see, and is topped with a unidirectional rotating bezel. This is fitted with a blue Cerachom insert that no longer features the 10-to-zero countdown scale, yet reveals a classically styled 60-minute graduation. What also changed is that this generation of the Yacht Master II no longer relies on the Ring Command system of the model, yet is programmable and operable through the winch-style pushers on the right. For a full rundown of how such a timing function works, we refer you to this article about the previous-gen Yacht Master II.
The new generation also ushers in a new movement, with the Calibre 4162 replacing the Calibre 4161. In a case of evolution over revolution, this now comes with Rolex’s latest technical innovations, such as the Chronergy escapement. The movement runs at a rate of 28,800vph. The movement also uses a Parachrom hairspring with Rolex overcoil, with the oscillator mounted on the Paraflex shock absorber. Wound by the central rotor, Calibre 4162 packs up to 72 hours of power reserve. All this makes the Calibre 4162 one of the most complicated movements Rolex currently makes.
The Yacht Master II comes on a three-link bracelet that matches the material of the case. Broader than on the previous generation, the new bracelets give the Yachter Master II a more harmonious profile. Finished with brushed outer links and polished central links, both types of materials are fitted to an Oysterlock folding clasp that’s slightly slimmer than before, with the Easylink comfort extension allowing for approximately 5mm of adjustability. Prices are EUR 19,850 for the Yachter Master II Ref. 126680 in Oystersteel, and EUR 56,700 for the Yacht Master II Ref. 126688 in 18k yellow gold.
For more information, please visit Rolex.com.
