Why is Yacht Master II so underrated?

[RolexFan007]

I have a big wrist and have been wanting to add YM2 SS to my collection for a long time. Everytime I get closer to pulling the trigger I ask myself why are these not so popular and relatively easier to get?

[Shamorai]

The big “YACHT-MASTER II” on the bezel?

[jeffnnj]

Originally Posted by Shamorai

The big “YACHT-MASTER II” on the bezel?

That, lack of a date and a fairly useless complication.


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[Xerxes77]

Originally Posted by Shamorai

The big “YACHT-MASTER II” on the bezel?

For me too

[Xerxes77]

Originally Posted by Shamorai

The big “YACHT-MASTER II” on the bezel?

IMO for this

[lecorsaire]

Originally Posted by Shamorai

The big “YACHT-MASTER II” on the bezel?

+100. This is all that really needs to be said. It’s also a very specific use watch and very out of place in the workplace for example. It’s just a bit gaudy no matter if it’s steel, two tone or PM.

Even when no other sports Rolex are in sight, I find that ADs will usually have a couple of YMIIs. At least that’s been my experience.

[daniganch]

100% Agreed! One of the ugliest watches Rolex has manufactured, except for the Cellini, LOL

[1978]

Originally Posted by Shamorai

The big “YACHT-MASTER II” on the bezel?

Hahaha yes probably

[Jimmy66]

Originally Posted by Shamorai

The big “YACHT-MASTER II” on the bezel?

Yep. Horrible design. Almost as bad as the 'ROLEX' dials on some models

[Mystro]

Originally Posted by Jimmy66

Yep. Horrible design. Almost as bad as the 'ROLEX' dials on some models

I addressed this in my review because I said the same thing at its release. I followed the initial push back herd mentality from the press pics.
Then when I saw it in real life years later on the wrist I didn’t even notice the bezel print. It looked very symmetrical and balanced.
The YMII is a completely different design bezel for a reason and most that own conventional Rolex bezels couldn’t wrap their mind around that it’s not a conventional twist timing bezel. It’s not the same old GMT/Sub bezel design. Now I adore the “Yacht Master II” on the bezel because it is a command ring bezel. I wouldn’t want a watch with this much design and engineering to look like a conventional model. I believe that was Rolex’s point as well.
Cosmetically, there was a lot of pushback with models with new labeling at the time like the DSSD “ring lock”, etc... The move to ceramic bezels was also stirring it up at the same time.
Rolex owners always resist change but loves to point out how Rolex never releases anything new.
The YMII was/is way ahead of its time on many levels and why it is “underrated” by some. YMII is a halo/flagship Rolex model not ever intended to be aimed to the mainstream buyer.

This never matters to me but as far as popularity, I see the YMII on high profile people over the years all the time and it’s not dissipating. You can’t miss it as it’s looks are so distinctive. I am starting to see more SS models than 18k but that is the fashion trend. I saw two different SS YMII this past weekend NFL playoffs worn by a announcer and a post game player.

[Cmfrank]

I own the white gold and platinum 116689 version and I can truly say that it is my favorite Rolex I’ve owned over the years, including the likes of the Rolex Daytona 116500. IMO, I believe the Yachtmaster II (especially the white gold/platinum “albino” version) will be a future heavy hitting collectible. Just remember, it’s typically the least popular watches that go down as some of the most collectable later on, even if that means several decades later.

Additionally, for what it’s worth, Tim Mosso also feels this way about the 116689 if you watch his watch reviews for this watch.

[inadeje]

Originally Posted by Cmfrank

I own the white gold and platinum 116689 version and I can truly say that it is my favorite Rolex I’ve owned over the years, including the likes of the Rolex Daytona 116500. IMO, I believe the Yachtmaster II (especially the white gold/platinum “albino” version) will be a future heavy hitting collectible. Just remember, it’s typically the least popular watches that go down as some of the most collectable later on, even if that means several decades later.

Additionally, for what it’s worth, Tim Mosso also feels this way about the 116689 if you watch his watch reviews for this watch.

100% agree with you on this

[RustyW]

Originally Posted by Shamorai

The big “YACHT-MASTER II” on the bezel?

Yep! Text "yelling" out and saying "HEY Look at me". This design choice ruins it.

Same thing for the Deep Sea. I owned one for 13 years...Besides the too thin/out of proportion bracelet, which I could overlook, I loved everything about the watch except the "Original Gas...blah blah blah" around that beautiful ring of steel. It draw my attention and messed with my brain every time I looked at it. Like spray paint over a masterpiece. Garish...

[SS Oyster]

They are called ClownMaster for a reason ... they are hideous and hard to read as a watch

[beshannon]

Originally Posted by SS Oyster

They are called ClownMaster for a reason ... they are hideous and hard to read as a watch

As well as having a complication that few use and ever fewer need.

[Romeomikehotel]

Because they’re ugly

[Luap1976]

Originally Posted by Romeomikehotel

Because they’re ugly

This

[PrinceOverseas]

Originally Posted by Romeomikehotel

Because they’re ugly

Just indicate your bad taste in this case.

[Brew]

If you like it, go for it. You won't owe an explanation to anyone (other than your wife).

[RolexFan007]

Originally Posted by Brew

If you like it, go for it. You won't owe an explanation to anyone (other than your wife).

Just like to be rational abt any decision I make...

[Joergen]

I think that the reason they don't speak to everyone is that they are a bit much. With its big "YACHT MASTER II" text and many elements, it's a watch that stands out.

[In-Cog-Neeto]

Originally Posted by Joergen

I think that the reason they don't speak to everyone is that they are a bit much. With its big "YACHT MASTER II" text and many elements, it's a watch that stands out.

This. But in a bad way

[Rrpdc]

Originally Posted by in-cog-neeto

this. But in a bad way

+1.

[RolexFan007]

Originally Posted by Joergen

I think that the reason they don't speak to everyone is that they are a bit much. With its big "YACHT MASTER II" text and many elements, it's a watch that stands out.

Never thought of the YACHT-MASTER II but now looking at other models none has this big writing on the bezel

[rambo99]

because the trend of wearing oversize watches is dead.

[tyler1980]

its less that its underrated and more that its loud, big, has a regatta timer, and large text on the bezel.

Doesnt necessarily mean anything other than the fact that those who want that is a much smaller subset of Rolex buyers.

[RolexFan007]

Originally Posted by tyler1980

its less that its underrated and more that its loud, big, has a regatta timer, and large text on the bezel.

Doesnt necessarily mean anything other than the fact that those who want that is a much smaller subset of Rolex buyers.

Loud and big is just my type

[Xerxes77]

Originally Posted by tyler1980

its less that its underrated and more that its loud, big, has a regatta timer, and large text on the bezel.

Doesnt necessarily mean anything other than the fact that those who want that is a much smaller subset of Rolex buyers.

Agree with this!
Especially that large text on bezel it’s.........not for me!

[Swiss Mad!]

Originally Posted by rambo99

because the trend of wearing oversize watches is dead.

Quite a large Panerai following on this forum may disagree with you there..myself included..lol



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[RolexFan007]

Originally Posted by Swiss Mad!

Quite a large Panerai following on this forum may disagree with you there..myself included..lol



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+1

Size us the first attraction for me on YM2...