Why We Love It

The Reference 16628 Yachtmaster was the first generation model and was produced for only a very short time with a white dial featuring Tritium luminous material. 

This particular example dates to circa 1993 and is quite frankly the most stunning patinated Yachtie we have ever come across. Rich cream-toned hour indices and a matching handset contrast beautifully with its crisp white dial - we've never seen another one this beautiful!

A solid 18k yellow gold Oyster case, bracelet with Fliplock clasp, and bezel assembly round out the all gold everything package brilliantly. This watch comes with its correct brown leather inner box.

Tritium 16628s are hard to come by to begin with - but this particular example is simply next level

The Story

The Rolex Yachtmaster is a relatively recent addition to the pantheon of famous Rolex sports models.

Originally introduced in the early 1990s, the Yachtmaster was initially conceived as a high style, high lux accoutrement for the nautically-minded enthusiast. Roughly based on the Submariner sized Oyster case, the Yachtmaster sported more graceful lug contour, tone-on bezel insert, and more polished elements to the case and Oyster bracelet. The first generation model, Reference 16628, was produced exclusively in solid 18k yellow gold, and was offered with a variety of exotic dials, including gem-set mother of pearl.

A few years later in 1999, Rolex expanded the line to include a steel model with a platinum bezel assembly, a combination Rolex calls 'Rolesium'. Two-Tone Rolesor, Everrose, and white gold models followed and have proven extremely popular with collectors who want in on the Rolex experience but want something different than a Submariner or GMT-Master on their wrist.