Designed for a genuine Rolex fan, keen of regatta competitions and on the classy Rolex aesthetics, the new Rolex Yacht-Master II does not actually bring a plus in functionality compared with other less expensive watches. And, some would say it is not quite easy to handle, but this will be a small inconvenient for the adventurous man who can pay the watchs fairly exclusive price of approximate $33,000.00.

With its numerous innovative watchmaking features, the Yacht-Master II model, launched in 2007, is the epitome of the brands creative force and technology. Its functions depend on a major innovation: the exclusive Ring Command bezel, designed and developed by Rolex. Rotatable through 90 and interacting with the movement, it serves to initialize and then lock the countdown programming.

The models 4160 movement, entirely designed and developed by Rolex, is fitted with a Parachrom hairspring, 10 times more resistant to shocks and insensitive to magnetic fields. The countdown is operated by a column wheel and a vertical clutch. A number of microcomponents in this unique movement are produced by UV-LiGA a new technology, entirely mastered in-house by Rolex, which enables the production of components whose fineness or geometry makes them impossible to manufacture by traditional means.

The Yacht-Master IIs case, stamped from a block of 904L steel extremely resistant to corrosion, offers all the qualities of waterproofness that have made the reputation of Oyster watches. Not least thanks to its Triplock winding crown, which screws down tightly against the case like the hatch of a submarine. The pink gold of the bezel and the bracelets centre links is 18 ct Everose gold, an exclusive alloy developed by Rolex and manufactured in its own foundry. The blue Cerachrom bezel insert, virtually impervious to scratches, corrosion-resistant and non-fading, is also patented and manufactured by Rolex.

The excellent legibility of the Yacht-Master IIs dial demonstrates the constant attention to functionality in the Oyster Professional collection. The red countdown minute and seconds hands are readable at a glance against the graduations on the dial or bezel.

> Video - Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II

The bracelet, in 904L steel and 18 ct Everose, is fitted with an EASYLINK 5 mm comfort extension link and an Oysterlock clasp with a safety catch, two further Rolex innovations. The horn has sounded. The course is set. The Yacht-Master II forges ever forward, sailing towards new horizons.