Rolex Yacht-Master II Yellow Gold / White Ref. 126688-0001

The Rolex Yacht-Master II 126688-0001 debuted in 2026 as the yellow gold version of the new-generation Yacht-Master II, reintroducing Rolex’s regatta chronograph in a full 18 ct yellow gold case and bracelet. Like the Oystersteel model, it reflects the 2026 overhaul of the Yacht-Master II platform, with a revised case profile, reworked countdown display, and new calibre 4162. In this execution, however, the watch takes on a more assertive character, with the contrast between the white matt lacquer dial, blue ceramic bezel insert, and yellow gold case giving the model a distinctly warmer and more opulent presence within Rolex’s Professional line. The Oyster case measures 44 mm in diameter and follows the revised architecture introduced for this generation, with more refined domed case sides and a more cohesive transition into the bracelet than on the previous Yacht-Master II. It retains the core Oyster construction of a monobloc middle case, screw-down case back, and Triplock winding crown with triple waterproofness system, protected by an integral crown guard. Water resistance remains rated to 100 metres. The bidirectional rotatable bezel is fitted with a blue Cerachrom insert graduated over 60 minutes, with the first 30 minutes marked minute by minute. In this yellow gold reference, the moulded and recessed numerals and graduations are coated in gold, which softens the contrast slightly compared with the platinum-coated markings of the Oystersteel model and ties the bezel more closely to the case. The dial is executed in matt white lacquer and designed around maximum functional clarity. Rolex uses applied hour markers associated with its Professional watches, together with a countdown flange graduated from 10 to 0 minutes and positioned with unusual precision on the dial. Half minutes are indicated by triangles, and the revised display layout makes the regatta function easier to read at a glance than on the earlier Yacht-Master II generation. The countdown minute hand and centre seconds hand rotate counterclockwise, so that the remaining time is read more naturally toward zero. On this yellow gold version, the hands and markers are executed in matching yellow gold, giving the display a more unified appearance than the more strongly accented Oystersteel reference. Inside is Rolex calibre 4162, a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement developed specifically for the new Yacht-Master II. It succeeds calibre 4161 and introduces a redesigned programming mechanism that allows the countdown to be set exclusively via the lower pusher, replacing the bezel-based Ring Command programming system of the previous model. The countdown remains programmable, includes mechanical memory, and can be synchronized on the fly, allowing the wearer to correct the display quickly during the critical pre-start sequence of a regatta. Calibre 4162 uses a column wheel and vertical clutch, runs at 28,800 vibrations per hour, and offers approximately 72 hours of power reserve. It also incorporates the Chronergy escapement, a blue Parachrom hairspring with Rolex overcoil, Paraflex shock absorbers, and Rolex Côtes de Genève decoration on the bridges. The watch is fitted with an Oyster bracelet in 18 ct yellow gold, with polished centre links, satin-finished outer links with polished edges, an Oysterlock folding safety clasp, and the Easylink comfort extension system. On this version, the bracelet also includes ceramic inserts inside the links to reduce wear and improve flexibility on the wrist. In full yellow gold, the Yacht-Master II 126688-0001 retains all of the technical purpose of the model while shifting its emphasis toward a more substantial and visually commanding interpretation of Rolex’s regatta chronograph.