Rolex Yacht-Master II 44 mm 116689-1 White Gold/Platinum White Gold

The Rolex Yacht-Master II ref. 116689-1 is one of the most compelling expressions of the brand's dedication to high-complication sports watchmaking. Introduced as the flagship of Rolex's nautical lineup, the Yacht-Master II was engineered with the competitive sailing world in mind, offering a programmable countdown timer synchronized to the starting sequence of a regatta race — a feature that sets it categorically apart from the standard Yacht-Master collection.

At 44mm in diameter, the case of reference 116689-1 is constructed in white gold and platinum, two of the most prestigious precious metals in horology. The combination lends the watch an icy, almost monolithic presence on the wrist, with the cool grey-white tones of platinum complementing the bright polish of white gold in a way that reads as both athletic and unmistakably luxurious. The case architecture follows Rolex's Oyster tradition — robustly proportioned, elegantly finished with alternating brushed and polished surfaces.

The white gold dial of the 116689-1 is a study in restrained opulence. Applied hour markers and the characteristic Mercedes hands are rendered in white gold, creating a tone-on-tone effect that rewards close inspection. The dial's layout is optimized for legibility, with the regatta countdown display integrated seamlessly into the overall composition, ensuring that functional readouts never compromise the watch's formal elegance.

The bezel of the Yacht-Master II is among its most mechanically distinctive elements. The screw-down bi-directional rotating bezel is not merely decorative — it is directly coupled to the movement's countdown mechanism, allowing the wearer to program a starting sequence of up to ten minutes. This mechanical interconnection between the external control and the internal caliber is a feat of engineering that Rolex spent years perfecting before bringing the Yacht-Master II to market.

On the wrist, the 116689-1 commands immediate attention. The 44mm footprint is substantial and assertive, yet the Oyster bracelet's articulated links distribute weight evenly, making the watch surprisingly comfortable for extended wear. The white gold and platinum palette means this reference transitions naturally from the regatta course to a formal dinner table — a genuine dual-purpose luxury instrument.

At Bizak & Co., we specialize in sourcing and presenting exceptional pre-owned and secondary-market Rolex timepieces, and the Yacht-Master II 116689-1 represents a particularly rare opportunity. White gold Yacht-Master II references appear far less frequently on the market than their stainless steel counterparts, making this an acquisition worth acting on promptly. Reach out to our team at bizakandco.com to inquire, request additional photographs, or purchase this Rolex Yacht-Master II online with confidence.