First Rolex GMT II or Yacht Master ?

[Alc]

So I have wanted the 2 tone blue and gold Sub since I got in the car business 16 years ago, now that Im in a position to take the plunge it seems like everyone and their mother has this watch so I started leaning towards the GMT "batman" then I came across the Platinum Yacht Master with blue dial and can't decide? Any suggestions or advantages to consider one over the other? I like that the GMT has the traditional look of a Sub and the Yacht Master is less common but aside from that I haven't read that there isn't a lot of differences between the two?

[Chadridv]

I actually don't own either but I've certainly been around these watches one way or another to offer a little bit of advice.

Let's start with function and practicality:
The gmts 24 hour hand is not for everyone, I'd be willing to bet 90% of its users have never even set it. Don't let that deter you you though, I've never taken my submariner below 8ft and My Yachtmaster has never been on even a rowboat. But it's still important to know if it's something that is important to you. If you're unfamiliar with the function, do some research so you can go into your decision in the know. Same thing applies to the directional bezel of the Yachtmaster. If there's some reason this function suits your needs, make a point to consider than when balancing the decision scale.

Aesthetics and fit:
This is likely going to be the most important aspects of your decision. Let's begin with the size. Both watches have 40mm cases. Keep in mind the BLNR will wear more like a 41-42mm while the Yachtmaster is a bit more true to 40mm. If you have a big wrist and stature you might lean more towards the BLNR. I personally tend to gravitate towards bigger watches (even with a not so big wrist) which is why I never pulled the trigger on the YM even though it is a watch I've always loved! Perhaps the size doesn't matter to you so moving on to aesthetics...

This is going to easily be the most subjective topic. Which do you like more, which is more pleasing to you eye, which sings to you, etc?

IMO the BLNR will be the more versatile watch. The YM is truly stunning, so much so that I think it pops in any scene with any outfit on any wrist. It's definitely a watch that will get more attention (IMO).

Materials: aside from the aesthetics and overall design of the watch the only difference I know of is the Ceramic bezel. Ceramic is relatively new to the watch scene so it's not for everyone. I wore a 16610 Submariner with an aluminum bezel for 15 years. I was completely blown away by the ceramic bezel on my 116610. It's become above and beyond my favorite watch and a big part of that is the ceramic bezel.

Lastly a little about you: do you have any other watches? Have you tried these watches on yet? I know you said you work in the auto business but does your job require a daily suit and tie, or mechanical attire or casual clothing?

Most important thing is that you get to an authorized dealer and try both watches on. If you don't know after that experience, keep internet stalking and researching. Instagram has a lot of amazing photos. And periodically check back in at the AD to try them on again.

Keep us updated and best of luck!

[asleep]

Originally Posted by Chadridv

...Both watches have 40mm cases. Keep in mind the BLNR will wear more like a 41-42mm while the Yachtmaster is a bit more true to 40mm. If you have a big wrist and stature you might lean more towards the BLNR...

If you were to include the SubC/date in the size comparison, how would you characterize the differences?

[Snoop_]

Batman is tough watch to find at an AD and it will keep it value over time. If you travel a lot the GMT is great to have.

[Chadridv]

Originally Posted by asleep

If you were to include the SubC/date in the size comparison, how would you characterize the differences?

To me there is actually a noticeable difference in the way the SubC/date wears, but not necessarily looks.

I don't know the specs off hand, but i recently tried on a GMTIIC while having just taken off my 116610 and definitely noticed a weight difference in the case. The Sub Case is also slightly thicker. To me it actually feels more substantial, but not my much.

The look of the case on the wrist is almost identical.

[Alc]

Originally Posted by Chadridv

I actually don't own either but I've certainly been around these watches one way or another to offer a little bit of advice.

Let's start with function and practicality:
The gmts 24 hour hand is not for everyone, I'd be willing to bet 90% of its users have never even set it. Don't let that deter you you though, I've never taken my submariner below 8ft and My Yachtmaster has never been on even a rowboat. But it's still important to know if it's something that is important to you. If you're unfamiliar with the function, do some research so you can go into your decision in the know. Same thing applies to the directional bezel of the Yachtmaster. If there's some reason this function suits your needs, make a point to consider than when balancing the decision scale.

Aesthetics and fit:
This is likely going to be the most important aspects of your decision. Let's begin with the size. Both watches have 40mm cases. Keep in mind the BLNR will wear more like a 41-42mm while the Yachtmaster is a bit more true to 40mm. If you have a big wrist and stature you might lean more towards the BLNR. I personally tend to gravitate towards bigger watches (even with a not so big wrist) which is why I never pulled the trigger on the YM even though it is a watch I've always loved! Perhaps the size doesn't matter to you so moving on to aesthetics...

This is going to easily be the most subjective topic. Which do you like more, which is more pleasing to you eye, which sings to you, etc?

IMO the BLNR will be the more versatile watch. The YM is truly stunning, so much so that I think it pops in any scene with any outfit on any wrist. It's definitely a watch that will get more attention (IMO).

Materials: aside from the aesthetics and overall design of the watch the only difference I know of is the Ceramic bezel. Ceramic is relatively new to the watch scene so it's not for everyone. I wore a 16610 Submariner with an aluminum bezel for 15 years. I was completely blown away by the ceramic bezel on my 116610. It's become above and beyond my favorite watch and a big part of that is the ceramic bezel.

Lastly a little about you: do you have any other watches? Have you tried these watches on yet? I know you said you work in the auto business but does your job require a daily suit and tie, or mechanical attire or casual clothing?

Most important thing is that you get to an authorized dealer and try both watches on. If you don't know after that experience, keep internet stalking and researching. Instagram has a lot of amazing photos. And periodically check back in at the AD to try them on again.

Keep us updated and best of luck!

Thanks for the detailed reply. I work in the finance office, we were white long sleeve button shirts and company logos. I would want to wear with a suit when the occasion presents itself along with casual attire polo shirts. I tried on both and noticed the GMT looked bigger in dept, I like the traditional ceramic bezel and love the color combo as well. I think the Yacht master is more striking but like the signature look of the Sub and GMT

[silverbullet818]

Don't forget about the cost difference.

The BLNR is a stainless watch. The YM is platinum (based on your original email) so there will be a huge price difference.

[Chadridv]

Originally Posted by silverbullet818

Don't forget about the cost difference.

The BLNR is a stainless watch. The YM is platinum (based on your original email) so there will be a huge price difference.

Yeah as mentioned in Alan's post, the bezel is the only platinum piece of the YM. Yes the msrp is higher on the YM but trusted seller route can get you either watch BNIB within $500 of one another.

[Lordofrolex]

Originally Posted by Chadridv

Yeah as mentioned in Alan's post, the bezel is the only platinum piece of the YM. Yes the msrp is higher on the YM but trusted seller route can get you either watch BNIB within $500 of one another.

X2

Honestly, I would walk into an AD try them both on and you'll just know. Me personally I would get the GMT II.

[TimeRookie]

I have both but my YM is a platinum dial. The BLNR is slightly bulkier to wear but by no means uncomfortable. In my opinion the YM is a dressier watch and I wear mine as my dress watch. The BLNR is my daily watch with an Omega SM300 Master that I wear some as well.
For my lifestyle, if I had to choose one, it would be the BLNR. I rarely dress up and I'm hard on watches and think the BLNR bezel will stand up a bit better. I do use the GMT had some as well. If I was wearing dress clothes for work every day, I'd pick the YM. MY$.02... and this thread needs more pictures so:

[Bluside]

BLNR for the win.

[Alc]

Originally Posted by TimeRookie

I have both but my YM is a platinum dial. The BLNR is slightly bulkier to wear but by no means uncomfortable. In my opinion the YM is a dressier watch and I wear mine as my dress watch. The BLNR is my daily watch with an Omega SM300 Master that I wear some as well.
For my lifestyle, if I had to choose one, it would be the BLNR. I rarely dress up and I'm hard on watches and think the BLNR bezel will stand up a bit better. I do use the GMT had some as well. If I was wearing dress clothes for work every day, I'd pick the YM. MY$.02... and this thread needs more pictures so:

I wondered which bezel would take abuse better? My first watch was a Tag Link and the bezel is pretty beat down after just a few years of use.

[JY2016]

Originally Posted by Lordofrolex

X2

Honestly, I would walk into an AD try them both on and you'll just know. Me personally I would get the GMT II.

Couldn't agree more!

[dchernikoff]

Originally Posted by Lordofrolex

X2

Honestly, I would walk into an AD try them both on and you'll just know. Me personally I would get the GMT II.

Funny to see this thread from 2015 pop up. Boy those were the days when you could just “walk into an AD and try them both on”! (Which the OP actually was able to do!). That’s the biggest frustration today - buying a $12,000 watch blind. Spend a few months courting an AD to get on a list for one, wait a year to get it, only to find you don’t like it! Turns us all into flippers lol. But in the plus side, who knows how many watches I’d own today if I could actually try them on at an AD!

-Dan

[locutus49]

YM is SS with a platinum bezel insert.

Originally Posted by silverbullet818

Don't forget about the cost difference.

The BLNR is a stainless watch. The YM is platinum (based on your original email) so there will be a huge price difference.

[DawgByte]

Originally Posted by silverbullet818

Don't forget about the cost difference.

The BLNR is a stainless watch. The YM is platinum (based on your original email) so there will be a huge price difference.

Only the bezel on the YM is made of Platinum. The rest of the watch is 904L SS.

To the original posters quandary. It's entirely subjective from an aesthetics perspective. For me I prefer the GMT Master II "Batman" (all black), so much so that I am the proud new owner of one and absolutely love it. Functionally speaking, I travel internationally and will be tracking 3 separate timezones on my GMT. My 24 Hr. dial is already set to Greenwich Mean Time, so from a practical perspective when I was making my choice between the GMT and Sub I knew I'd get more use out of the former.

[T. Ferguson]

Originally Posted by DawgByte

Only the bezel on the YM is made of Platinum. The rest of the watch is 904L SS.

To the original posters quandary. It's entirely subjective from an aesthetics perspective. For me I prefer the GMT Master II "Batman" (all black), so much so that I am the proud new owner of one and absolutely love it. Functionally speaking, I travel internationally and will be tracking 3 separate timezones on my GMT. My 24 Hr. dial is already set to Greenwich Mean Time, so from a practical perspective when I was making my choice between the GMT and Sub I knew I'd get more use out of the former.

I'm confused and curious. Do you have the LN or the BLNR?

[DawgByte]

Originally Posted by T. Ferguson

I'm confused and curious. Do you have the LN or the BLNR?

When I posted this I had just purchased the GMT and wasn't familiar with all the terms. I thought a Batman was all black instead of BLNR. Mine is all black, which I prefer over the BLNR.

[T. Ferguson]

Originally Posted by DawgByte

When I posted this I had just purchased the GMT and wasn't familiar with all the terms. I thought a Batman was all black instead of BLNR. Mine is all black, which I prefer over the BLNR.

Hah, no worries. I don't get the Batman moniker either. The LN is a handsome piece. Conrats!

[toneafficianado]

Fascinating post so I felt compelled to add my 2 cents as a person who has just SOLD a TT Sub and is chasing a BLNR but certainly has eyes for the blue dial YM. Great possibilities you have there!
I have tried on both extensively and the YM is a smaller feeling watch. it even looks a little smaller too because the colour of the Pt bezel blends with the case. [note only the bezel is platinum.] They both have same dial size though. Case on YM has curved sides not straight and smaller lugs than the GMT but not by much. YM's lugs are polished too, unlike GMT II.
I LOVE blue dials which is why I went for the TT Sub and the YM's dial is totally gorgeous even though it's not the same shade of royal blue as the sub has.
If you think you'd ever sell it then go for the BLNR as they have far greater demand than the YM second hand. The BLNR is so popular that there must be plenty out there though so if you want a bit of exclusivity[ which is why you didn't go TT Sub] then the YM will do it. More likely to get a deal on a YM too.
Pros and Cons!
I am chasing a BLNR but the YM blue would be a close second choice because of the blue dial mainly . Hard decision. Love to know which way you go.

[Eric Chan]

That is tough. Both are great watches. I used to own a YM 16622, but am now considering re-acquiring the YM 116622, but with blue dial. An absolute gorgeous timepiece.

That being said, if I had to choose between the two, I would go with the BLNR. To me, the BLNR is the best all around SS Rolex Professional Series watch currently available. Love the bi-colour bezel and GMT function. The depth rating between the two GMT and YM is the same along with the bracelet, so there is no contest there.

In the end, as others have said, go to an AD and try them both on so you can get a feel on their fit on your wrist.

[alcrts]

I personally am going back to the Yachtmaster after selling it in the first place, getting a TT sub and now the TT has to go and a Yachtie has to come back to the box. I miss it a damn lot and imho it's one of the best..

[Alc]

Originally Posted by alecpiguet

I personally am going back to the Yachtmaster after selling it in the first place, getting a TT sub and now the TT has to go and a Yachtie has to come back to the box. I miss it a damn lot and imho it's one of the best..

I originally wanted the two tone like in your avatar but seems like they are everywhere.

[alcrts]

Originally Posted by Alc

I originally wanted the two tone like in your avatar but seems like they are everywhere.

They're often refered as the most iconic Sub but speaking of me personally, I haven't seen one in the wild on someone I don't know except for mine or ones some of my friends own.

[Jack T]

Some very knowledgeable, thorough and articulate summaries, both great watches. I have neither but the GMT has always ought my eye, the first Rolex I really took note of. For functionality alone, I'd go with the GMT, it probably gets the nod in durability also. It's also more under the radar, my preference as well. Good luck in your decision.

[tomilg]

Interesting thread here......Here in Scottsdale, I always see the TT Blue Subs. The gentleman next to me at breakfast last week was wearing one. However, as popular as the BLNR is on this forum, I'm yet to see one in the wild, however, I have seen the YM's, just not the blue dial YM.

Personally, I'd go with the BLNR, but it's your money, your wrist....go with what speaks to you!!

[T. Ferguson]

There's no loser here. For me though, the TZ function of the GMT gives it the edge.

[Timesurfer]

GMT all the way

[threemonkeys]

Chadri posted some well thought out points to consider. I love the YM. But I figured I would destroy the bezel. So I opted for the GMT and have no regrets.

[ROLEX2447]

I'm about as far from any expert one can get,given i'm 53 and bought my very first Rolex less than 2 years ago.

What i can tell you,is that I caught the disease pretty quick and ironically,have purchased all 3 of the exact same watches you are inquiring about,within the last month.

The sub is the most popular model,by my opinion so the reason you've seen it around so much,is because it is one of the older models and just wreaks of that classic Rolex design.

The GMT is also popular and not too much different than a Sub,again,by my opinion and the Yachmaster seems to me,not too much different than either of the other 2,except i believe the whole "Yachtmaster" name,gives an impression one must be the owner of a luxury Yacht,which is B.S. of course,but why i believe you don't see too many compared to the other 2.

My advice is,buy which ever you find most appealing and remember,they are each equal in quality and design,so either choice can't be the wrong one.

Just my 2 cents and good luck with whatever you choose!