Ladies Rolex Yacht-Master was first released in the mid-90’s. Until then, the Yacht-Master was only available in 40mm case size and in a choice of yellow or white gold. Rolex Yacht-Master took decades to develop. The concept of a Yacht-Master watch was born in the mid 1960’s, but it wasn’t up until the 1990’s that the model was officially released.
Rolex Yacht-Master is reminiscent of a Rolex Submariner with a more feminine lines and color palate. This watch is a new, fresh take on a traditional, manly, tool watch.
If you are looking for the perfect watch inspired by one of the most popular professional Rolex watches, Yacht-Master is the watch for you. However, we urge you to consider the following before you send your hard earned money.
- Is the condition of this watch worth the price tag?
- Am I buying from the right place?
- Is this thing real?
CONDITION MATTERS
This is especially important if you are purchasing a pre-owned watch. Condition of your Rolex will greatly impact its price. Ideally, you are looking for a Rolex Yacht-Master in a like new condition priced on the low end of reasonable. Watches like that are nearly impossible to find, but one can wish, right? Here are a few signs that you might have some room to bargain:
- Your watch should be free of deep scratches that can’t be buffed out by a professional.
- The watch (including the dial and markers) should be free of stains and corrosion.
- Links in the bracelet should be tight and not “sloppy” or stretched out.
- Does the watch have all of the authentication papers and maintenance records. Be advised that some watches may not have all of their paperwork and that is ok. That just means that you might have to do some additional research.
If you see any of the things mentioned above, you might be able to bargain. However, be advised that if you are shopping at a jewelry store or other reputable location, there may not be much wiggle room with the price. It never hurts to ask, though.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT RETAILER
Choosing the right retailer could mean the difference between over paying and getting a great deal or between getting an authentic Rolex and being ripped off. Here are a few questions you should answer before choosing your go to retailer:
- Are they licensed and insured?
- Do they have a return policy?
- Is there a warranty?
- Do they have a professional watchmaker or do they send their watches out for repair?
- Can they address all of your questions and concerns?
- Do they appear pushy?
A reputable retailer will be licensed and insured and offer a return policy and a warranty. Most reputable retailers prefer to keep their repairs in house to monitor the quality of the repair or restoration which is why they usually hire a professional watchmaker. A reputable retailer will never be pushy or rush you into a purchase. When you are in the right place you will be comfortable with the process of purchasing a watch and with your purchase. If at any point you feel rushed, pushed, or uncertain about the intentions of the retailer – walk away.
BEWARE OF FAKES
From designer sunglasses to purses to luxury watches, the market is full of knockoffs. Don’t fall prey to the ruthless counterfeiters and unethical behavior of some retailers. Here are some guidelines on how to spot a fake Yacht-Master watch. This is by no means a comprehensive guide. If you wish to learn more about Rolex authentication, we recommend reading our Rolex Authentication article.
- A Rolex is a heavy watch. If a watch feels light, it is probably made out of inferior materials and is fake.
- If you are buying a Yacht-Master made between 2001 and now, there will be no engravings on the back of the watch. Current Rolex watches will have a hologram that will change at different angles and appear three dimensional. However, pre 2001 ladies’ Rolex watches sometimes have engraved case backs. All Yacht-Master watches that claim to be the 1990’s models should be inspected by a professional to guarantee authenticity.
- The movement of a seconds hand should be smooth and not choppy.
- If you see any tint, chipping, or deep set scratches, the watch might be fake. Rolex Yacht-Master watches have a sapphire crystal which is incredibly durable and completely clear.
- A yellow gold Rolex Yacht-Master should have a flawless, lustrous finish on all metal surfaces.
- Luminous markers should glow brightly in the dark and have even spacing. The dial should be free of scratches and imperfections.
- The logo should be smooth without any jagged edges.
- The winding crown should have a smooth movement to it.
- The bezel of a Rolex Yacht-Master should rotate smoothly without clicking or catching.
If you see any imperfection that do not fall in the scope of general wear and tear, you should probably question the authenticity of the watch. In any case, you should always get your watch inspected by a third party appraiser or a watchmaker to guarantee its authenticity.
BUYING AT ERMITAGE JEWELERS
Ermitage Jewelers has hundreds of pre-owned Rolex watches to choose from. We are an Atlanta area retailer and offer competitive prices on all of our Swiss luxury watches. We offer a 10 day money back guarantee and a limited one year warranty so you can be sure that you are buying the very best.
All of the timepieces that we sell have been tested, cleaned, and restored (if needed) with authentic Rolex parts by our professional watchmakers in a state of the art repair and restoration facility. We don’t sell replica watches, so you can rest assured that you are getting the very best.
Browse our collection or stop by our Atlanta location. Our friendly staff will be glad to help you fall in love with your very own Rolex Yacht-Master.
Available models:
169623, 169622, 169622, 169623