Quattro's latest post offers a compelling look at the Rolex Yacht-Master II, specifically the steel Ref. 126680, and its unexpected appeal. He meticulously details the aesthetic and functional evolution of this polarizing reference, demonstrating how subtle design changes can dramatically alter a watch's perception. This piece is particularly valuable for collectors who appreciate how brands refine their designs over time, even on models that initially miss the mark.
I love it when a watch surprises me and delights me against all expectations and against my usual taste.
I'm neither a Rolex guy, nor a regatta guy, nor a fan of the blue, white, and red color combination (which reminds me of too many flags), and I've always found the Yacht-Master II far too big and rather ugly.
But, at the same time, I've always really liked the idea of ​​a programmable countdown timer with counter-clockwise rotating minute and second hands.
The new steel Yacht-Master II ref. 126680 is still very/too bulky, but aesthetically and from a practical/user point of view, it has become quite remarkable, in my opinion.
This is how the
first 2013 iteration
looked like (ref.
116680-0001 ).
Everything looked ugly to me:
- The large name on the bezel.
- The invasive and redundant countdown scale (on the dial and on the bezel).
In
2017, the model was
slightly updated (ref.
116680-0002 ):
- The markers at 6 and 12 o'clock became more distinct.
- Mercedes hands replaced the initial ones.
But the name on the bezel remained and the watch was still unappealing to me.
But look at the
aesthetic transformation the
new model offers!
It simply
looks so much
better:
- No more ugly name on the bezel.
- Improved indexes: triangular at 12 o'clock, rectangular at 3 and 9, square at 6 and round at 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10 & 11.
- White gold Mercedes hands.
- Countdown scale transferred to the periphery of the dial.
The
case is
still large, measuring
44 x
13.90 mm.
But the
white dial is so
bright and
fresh.
And the setting of the
countdown mechanism is now done through the two
winch-style pushers:
no more “
Command Bezel” to turn and
crown to unscrew!
Aesthetically, I really find the
dial and
bezel full of
lively energy (I find no better words).
A few
last words: Rolex has also released an
18k yellow gold ref.
126688.
But I find it far
less appealing: it lacks
contrast,
energy and
appeal.
But
both models have wonderful
lume.
credit: Hodinkee & Monochrome
What do you think about this new Yacht-Master II?
Do you share my enthusiasm (which is purely “platonic”, because I know I cannot pull off such a watch)?
Thanks for reading.
Best, Emmanuel
BONUS: VIDEO SHOWING HOW TO SET AND USE THE COUNTDOWN MECHANISM
The 2026 Rolex Yacht-Master II reference 126680 and 126688
