Rolex Reintroduces Yacht-Master II with New Movement and Simplified Regatta Function

Rolex starts its showcase at Watches and Wonders 2026 by reviving one of the most specialized watches in its modern Professional lineup, reintroducing the Yacht-Master II in a fully reworked new generation. First launched in 2007 and discontinued in 2024, the regatta-focused chronograph now returns in Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold, with an overhauled design, a new movement, and a rethought interface intended to make its core countdown function more legible and easier to operate.

The basic concept of the watch remains the same as its predecessors. The Yacht-Master II is still a 44mm nautical chronograph built specifically for timing the start of a regatta, when boats attempt to cross the line precisely as the official countdown reaches zero. But where the previous model relied on Rolex’s Ring Command bezel and crown-based programming, the new generation simplifies the process significantly. The countdown is now programmed exclusively via the lower pusher, while the upper pusher starts and stops the timing function. According to Rolex, the revised system preserves the programmable countdown with mechanical memory and on-the-fly synchronization while making the watch more intuitive to use.

Visually, the watch has been streamlined as well. The countdown scale has been moved to a flange graduated from 10 to 0 minutes, with half-minute intervals shown as triangles, while the dial itself is now rendered in a new matte white lacquer intended to reduce reflections. Rolex has also restyled the middle case, widened the bracelet slightly for more balanced proportions, and slimmed the Oysterlock clasp. The bidirectional bezel remains in blue ceramic, but it is no longer part of the programming system, instead functioning as a more conventional timing bezel for measuring elapsed intervals. On the Oystersteel version, the flange markings are rendered in red, matching the hands used for the countdown display.

One of the more unusual features of the new Yacht-Master II is the direction of the countdown indications. Rolex says the countdown minute and seconds hands now rotate counterclockwise, a first for the brand, to make the approach to zero more immediately readable. That configuration is especially useful in the final minute, when the wearer can read the last 30 seconds against the bezel with greater precision after placing it in its neutral position. It is a functional update, but also one that gives the watch an even more striking personality than before.

Inside is the new caliber 4162, which replaces the earlier calibers used in the previous Yacht-Master II generation. Rolex describes it as an evolution of the 4161, now reengineered around the new countdown system and updated with a number of the brand’s current movement technologies, including the Chronergy escapement. The self-winding movement runs at 4 Hz, offers a 72-hour power reserve, and uses a column wheel and vertical clutch for the chronograph mechanism. Rolex also notes that the movement receives upgraded finishing, including Rolex Côtes de Genève on the bridges and a cut-out oscillating weight.

As with other Rolex releases for 2026, the Yacht-Master II carries the strengthened Superlative Chronometer certification, which now includes additional testing criteria related to magnetism, reliability, and sustainability alongside Rolex’s established standards for precision, waterproofness, self-winding performance, and power reserve. Water resistance remains 100 meters.

Pricing starts at $20,300 for the Oystersteel reference 126680 and rises to $57,800 for the 18k yellow gold reference 126688. 

To learn more, visit Rolex, here.