Rolex Yacht-Master II v Deepsea Case Comparison

Rolex's Yacht-Master II and Deepsea models are both large professional watches designed for timekeeping above and below the surface of the ocean. The stainless steel versions shown above (Deepsea Reference # 116660 and Yacht-Master II Reference # 116680) are similar in size but feature different functionalities and price points.

Both the Rolex Deepsea and Yacht-Master II come with a 44 mm case, with the Deepsea's case standing higher due to its Ringlock Case Architecture. The Ringlock system and Helium Escape Valve help give the Deepsea a depth rating of 3,900 meters. The Yacht-Master II features a depth rating of 100 meters. Both models come with a Triplock winding crown. The photo below shoes the Deepsea's case on the left with the YM2 case on the right.

Rolex Deepsea and Yacht-Master II Cases Side by Side

The Yacht-Master II is equipped with a Calibre 4161 manufactured by Rolex in-house that features a regatta timer that allows one to set a 10 minute countdown with a flyback function to synchronize with the official countdown of a yacht race. For information on how to operate the regatta timer, take a look at my previous post on how to set the regatta chronograph.

The functionality of the Deepsea, equipped with a 3135 movement also manufactured by Rolex in-house, is tailored to the needs of professional divers. It features a unidirectional 60-minute graduated bezel that allows the wearer to track their time underwater during a dive. It also has a small date aperture at 3 o'clock without the Cyclops magnifying lens that usually appears over the date on other Rolex models.

Rolex Deepsea and Yacht-Master II Models Side by Side

Both models come with a stainless steel Oyster bracelets, the Deepsea's with all brushed steel links and the Yacht-Master II's with polished center links. Both of their clasps come with Fliplock extension systems, but the Deepsea's also comes with the Glidelock extension system, giving it an additional 20 mm of length at 2 mm increments. The Yacht-Master II's clasp has an Easylink that adds 5 mm to the length of the bracelet.

These aesthetic of these models differ greatly, with the Deepsea resembling a classic dive watch and the Yacht-Master II offering a bold and colorful nautical design. It is safe to assume that not everyone who purchases the Deepsea is a professional diver and not every Yacht-Master II owner participates in yacht races. So, while their functionalities differ, it is more likely that the purchase of one of these timepieces is based on legacy, aesthetic, price and personal preference.

The suggested retail price for the stainless steel Rolex Deepsea (Reference # 116660) shown in the photos above is 11,500 Swiss francs, or approximately $11,701 USD. The stainless steel Rolex Yacht-Master II (Reference # 116680) in this comparison goes for 17,800 Swiss francs or approximately $18,112 USD. For more information on either one of these models, visit rolex.com.

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