Yacht-Master
The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II is a unique regatta chronograph dedicated to both experienced sailors and yachting enthusiasts.
Created in 2007, the Yacht-Master II is a unique high-precision chronograph. It features an exclusive function developed by Rolex, a programmable countdown with a mechanical memory that can be synchronized on the fly. A function that responds ideally to the need for precise timing during the crucial starting sequence of a regatta. Although technically complex, it is essentially very simple to use.
As in any contest of speed, precision is of the essence in a regatta. The Yacht-Master II is equipped with a countdown that can be programmed from 10 to 1 minutes, allowing the wearer to precisely time and follow each race’s specific official starting procedure, which generally unfolds in three stages, marked by sound and visual signals. This flexibility is one the major assets of the Yacht-Master II; its development was a considerable mechanical challenge. Furthermore, the programming can be mechanically memorized, which makes it possible to start a new countdown without having to reprogramme the watch, for example in the next leg or a subsequent regatta with identical countdown duration. Once launched, the countdown can be synchronized on the fly to match the official countdown (“fly-back” reset function of the seconds hand and adjustment of the countdown minute hand to the nearest minute).
The bidirectional rotatable bezel on the Yacht-Master II in Oystersteel, in the Everose Rolesor version, and in 18 ct yellow gold is equipped with a monobloc Cerachrom insert in blue ceramic, patented by Rolex. This insert, made of an extremely hard ceramic, is virtually scratchproof, and its colour is unaffected by ultraviolet rays. The numerals and inscriptions are moulded in the ceramic and coloured with gold or platinum using a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) process.
The Yacht-Master II in 18 ct white gold is fitted with a bidirectional rotatable bezel in 950 platinum. The raised numerals and inscriptions on this version are stamped into the bezel and polished.
The Yacht-Master II’s Oyster case, guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet), is a paragon of robustness and reliability. The characteristically shaped middle case is crafted from a solid block of Oystersteel, a particularly corrosion-resistant alloy, 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, screws down securely against the case. It is protected by a crown guard that is an integral part of the middle case. The crystal is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire. The waterproof Oyster case provides optimum protection for the Yacht-Master II’s mechanical movement.
The Yacht-Master II is equipped with calibre 4161, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. The architecture, manufacturing and innovative features of this movement make it exceptionally precise and reliable.
This consummate demonstration of technology houses a patented function and comprises some 360 components, some of which are made by UV-LiGA, a microfabrication technique entirely mastered in-house by Rolex. This process allows the production of components whose tiny proportions or complex geometry rule out manufacturing by traditional machining methods.
Calibre 4161 was based on the 4130 chronograph movement, which equips the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona. It is fitted with a traversing column wheel and vertical clutch for an instantaneous and extremely precise chronograph start.
The oscillator of calibre 4161 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.
Calibre 4161 has a blue Parachrom hairspring, manufactured by Rolex in an exclusive paramagnetic alloy. Insensitive to magnetic fields, the Parachrom hairspring offers great stability in the face of temperature variations and remains up to 10 times more precise than a traditional hairspring in case of shocks. It is equipped with a Rolex overcoil, ensuring its regularity in any position.
Calibre 4161 is fitted with a self-winding module featuring a Perpetual rotor, which ensures continuous winding of the mainspring by harnessing the movements of the wrist to provide constant energy. It offers a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.
The Yacht-Master II’s movement will be seen only by certified Rolex watchmakers, yet it is beautifully finished and decorated in keeping with the brand’s uncompromising quality standards.