When it comes to showcasing rare and coveted Rolex watches, Roger Federer is in a league of his own. Earlier this week, at the premiere of his new documentary Federer: Twelve Final Days, the tennis legend sported a Yacht-Master II reference 226627-a watch so incredibly lightweight that when I first handled it in Geneva last year, I was almost afraid I might break it. The price tag? A cool $14,050 (plus tax).
The ref. 226627 isn’t Rolex’s first foray into titanium watches-that honor goes to the Deepsea Challenge, a massive 50mm watch seemingly designed for filmmaker James Cameron as he explored the depths of the Atlantic. However, the Yacht-Master II brings a different kind of excitement. Measuring a more manageable 42mm across, this watch was initially spotted on the wrist of British sailing legend Sir Ben Ainslie in the fall of 2021. It has since transitioned from prototype to a full production model, crafted from Grade 5 RLX titanium and now available for purchase-though securing one might be easier said than done.
So, what sets this replica Rolex Yacht-Master II apart from the iconic Submariner? While both share similar design elements, a few key distinctions stand out: The Yacht-Master II boasts a RLX titanium case and a slightly larger 42mm size compared to the Submariner’s 41mm. It also features a bidirectional timing bezel with a sand-blasted Cerachrom insert, as opposed to the Sub’s unidirectional dive bezel. Other notable features include a date window (a feature seen only on the Submariner Date models) and a matching RLX titanium Oyster bracelet with an Oysterlock folding clasp and Easylink comfort extension, which isn’t available for the Submariner.
Beyond these differences, both the Rolex Submariner Date and the Yacht-Master II are powered by Rolex’s automatic Calibre 3235 movement, offering a 70-hour power reserve and designed for aquatic use. However, while the Submariner is a diver’s watch with a water resistance of up to 300 meters, the Yacht-Master II is tailored for sailing, with a respectable 100 meters of water resistance-perfect for the deck of a high-performance racing yacht.
Seeing Federer wearing the Yacht-Master II is as much fun as it is fitting. The clone watch pairs seamlessly with his dark suit at the premiere, yet its sporty design suggests it’s ready for action. As a Rolex ambassador, Federer has been seen wearing nearly every noteworthy model the brand offers in recent years, from the Le Mans Daytona to the Sky-Dweller in various precious metals. While he can effortlessly pull off a dressy 1908 with a tuxedo, it’s clear that Rolex’s sports watches are where his true style lies.
With Federer having cycled through many of Rolex’s most sought-after pieces, one question remains: When will we see him don the daring “Leopard” Daytona?