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Lot #1144

Rolex Yachtmaster 16628 Yellow Gold

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Introduction

Released in 1992 as the first all-new watch since the Daytona in 1963, the Yacht-Master was Rolex’s solution to creating a luxury-orientated version of their tool-watch-specific Submariner collection. Taking the Submariner’s dive watch credentials, the Yacht-Master introduced some subtle design details that set it apart as a yachting watch with a sporty yet luxurious aesthetic. To achieve this, Rolex gave the Yacht-Master bigger hands, more prominent hour markers, smoother edges with finer beveling, and a solid bi-directional metal bezel with an engraved inlay that, while functional, provided a fashionable statement on the wrist as the bezel caught the light. Starting the collection with the ref. 16628, which we have here, the Yacht-Master began life as a yellow gold timepiece with the same movement as the Submariner and Sea-Dweller. Furthermore, Rolex introduced a mid-sized and lady version two years later in 1994, which were followed by a two-tone variant five years later in 1999. Capable of pairing with a dressy look or suiting a casual look, the Yacht-Master’s luxury-focused sporty design has become a significant factor of its appeal as collectors seek watches capable of being more than just one-trick ponies for very specific use cases.

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Grade

M 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$15,000 – $20,000

The Details

Brand

Rolex

Dimensions

40mm

Model

Yachtmaster

Movement

Automatic cal. 3135

Reference

16628

Bracelet

18k Yellow Gold Oyster bracelet

Year

1995

Condition

Excellent

Material

18k Yellow Gold

Included

Watch Only

Dial Color

White

THE DIAL

A stunning white dial with black hour markers set into 18k yellow gold surrounds, this example's red accents provide an excellent aesthetic pairing with the ref. 16628's warm 18k yellow gold construction.

THE CONSTRUCTION

With its pronounced engraved bezel, the Yacht-Master's construction has become an integral piece of its aesthetic, with modern interpretations keeping the collection's iconic engraved bezel.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

Condition

Overall condition is excellent. Light surface wear consistent with careful use. Lugs are still full and retain their original shape. There are a total of 13 links, 3 of them are removable.

Our Perspective

An iconic watch that has still only been around for a short period in the grand scheme of things, it is interesting to see just how much the Rolex Yachmaster has gripped collectors with its luxury-focused eye for fashionable design pairing well with Haute Horlogerie and Rolex's desire to be the best in the business.

Eric Ku

Co-founder