Rolex Discontinues the Rolex Yacht-Master II 2024

Rolex has finally made a significant move – they’ve discontinued the Yacht-Master II at Watches and Wonders 2024. Historically, this model has been my least favorite among modern Rolexes. Despite some appealing features, such as being one of the few Rolex chronographs besides the Daytona, the Yacht-Master II never quite won me over.

In my view, the replica Rolex Yacht-Master II stood out as the most un-Rolex-like Rolex, primarily because it lacked the typical Rolex aesthetic. While it exuded a sporty vibe, I could never quite get accustomed to the prominent “YACHT-MASTER II” inscription on the bezel, which, to me, seemed rather whimsical. It reminded me of the oversized logos sported on jackets in the ’90s or the iconic MEMBERS ONLY jackets from the ’80s.

Launched during the late Patrick Heiniger era, the Rolex Yacht-Master II always felt somewhat out of place. Although designed for timing sailing regattas, one might question the practicality of using a wristwatch for such a task! The only person I recall seeing effortlessly pull off the Yacht-Master II was Scott Eastwood, as pictured below.

On a brighter note, Rolex is enhancing its Day-Date range with new iterations of the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 40 and the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36, boasting finely crafted dials. The Day-Date 40 introduces ombre dials, with the 18ct Everose gold version featuring a slate ombre dial, transitioning from a central hue to a deep black at the periphery. Another version, crafted from 18ct white gold, showcases a dial made of pearlized white mother-of-pearl.

The Rolex Day-Date 36 presents a dial adorned with faceted, deconstructed Roman numerals and index hour markers, previously exclusive to the Day-Date 40. Variants in 18ct yellow gold and Eve rose gold feature a white lacquer dial and a blue-green dial, respectively, the latter adorned with ten baguette-cut diamonds.

Equipped with calibre 3255, known for its technological prowess, both the Day-Date 40 and Day-Date 36 models display the day, date, hours, minutes, and seconds.

With spring heralding the imminent arrival of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, let’s turn our attention to a breezy beach wrist shot featuring the Tudor Chronograph. Arguably, this model represents Tudor’s rebirth, setting the tone for the brand’s retro-future. Personally, I’m enamored with its design.

In my observation, Rolex wearers tend to be conversationalists, relishing in or observing engaging discussions. A recent conversation between Joe Rogan and Tucker Carlson exemplifies this, both adorned with Rolex watches – Rogan sporting his D-Blue DEEPSEA and Carlson his two-tone Datejust on a Jubilee Bracelet.

Rolex introduced a new variant of the Rolex GMT-Master bezel insert at Watches and Wonder 2024 in Geneva, Switzerland – a Black and Grey Bezel insert. This design, featuring a 50/50 split bezel, serves as a subtle alternative to the vibrant Pepsi, Batman, and Sprite GMT-Master models.

Interestingly, Rolex’s decision to discontinue the all-black bezel GMT-Master model, introduced in 2005, hints at a deliberate shift in their lineup. This move resonates with historical feedback, such as complaints from commercial airline pilots in the 1960s regarding the Pepsi GMT-Master’s perceived lack of seriousness, leading to the introduction of the black bezel variant.

The challenge with the all-black dial Rolex GMT-Master lay in its striking resemblance to the Submariner, often causing confusion among customers. However, recent iterations feature super cases and the iconic JUMBO Big Crown, aligning them more closely with Submariner models.

While the new black and grey bezel Rolex GMT-Master II may seem understated, it represents a meaningful departure, embodying the day-night duality inherent in its split bezel design. This model now stands as a worthy successor to the discontinued all-black GMT-Master, as depicted on Rolex Oyster and Rolex Jubilee trademark bracelets.

Reflecting on discussions with Captain Danny, one can’t help but wonder why Rolex has yet to revert to the streamlined case design seen in the Single Red SEA-DWELLER and the newest Submariner.

As I envision the future, I imagine a Rolex Museum akin to the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva, Switzerland. Nestled in Downtown Geneva, overlooking Lake Geneva, this architectural marvel would resemble an enormous copy Rolex five-point crown from above. Visitors would descend through a circular ramp, exploring exhibitions and witnessing Rolex watchmakers at work.

The central atrium would feature a replica of Jacques-Yves Cousteau’s Calypso, inviting visitors to explore its historic significance. A basement cafe would fill the air with the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon buns, while meeting rooms within the crown’s circles would host special events and training sessions.

Although my dream museum remains unrealized, Watches and Wonders 2024 provided a glimpse into what a fake Rolex Museum could be. The Rolex GMT-Master Exhibition, dubbed “The Dark Knight” or “Bruce Wayne” by enthusiasts, stole the spotlight, offering attendees a journey through Rolex’s illustrious history.