yacht master size

Rolex Yacht-Master Size Guide

The Rolex Yacht-Master , a hallmark of craftsmanship and luxury, stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to impeccable design and relentless innovation. Emerging from Rolex’s illustrious line of sport watches, the Yacht-Master, although often overshadowed by its counterparts like the Submariner or Daytona, brings with it a unique appeal. This appeal doesn’t just stem from its sleek aesthetics or its maritime heritage, but also from its remarkable range of sizes tailored to suit wrists of all dimensions.

Since its debut in 1992, the Yacht-Master series has ventured through an intriguing journey, consistently expanding and refining its size offerings. New variants have been presented to the world, while others have gracefully retired, making way for the new. This continual evolution sparks the question for both seasoned collectors and budding enthusiasts alike: What sizes are currently available in the iconic Yacht-Master lineup, and how did they come to be? <> <>

Rolex Yacht-Master Sizes: A History

The Yacht-Master’s illustrious journey began in 1992, when Rolex introduced it to the world with a robust 40mm size (ref 16628). This initial offering was a statement of intent from Rolex, underscoring their dedication to creating a nautical-themed watch that combined style with functionality. This piece swiftly became a sought-after accessory for marine enthusiasts and Rolex aficionados alike.

Two short years later, in 1994, Rolex diversified its offering, acknowledging the demand for variety. They introduced the more petite 29mm and the medium-sized 35mm variants, catering to those with slender wrists or individuals seeking a more subdued size. These additions highlighted Rolex’s commitment to versatility and recognizing the diverse preferences of its global clientele.

The collection underwent a notable evolution in 2015. This year was marked by the unveiling of the 37mm Yacht-Master, a harmonious balance between the original 40mm and the smaller 29mm. This introduction was special not only for its new size but also because it was crafted in the luxurious Everose Gold, paired with the contemporary Oysterflex bracelet. This innovation, however, came with a bittersweet note: the 29mm and 35mm sizes, once celebrated, were discontinued, making way for the new.

2019 ushered in another size variant: the substantial 42mm model. This piece was designed to cater to those who desired a more dominant presence on the wrist. Not resting on their laurels, in 2022, Rolex adorned this 42mm variant in radiant Yellow Gold, showcasing their penchant for marrying opulence with innovation. And as if to further emphasize their dedication to pushing boundaries, 2023 marked the introduction of the 42mm Yacht-Master in a robust and sleek Titanium build, underscoring Rolex’s drive to incorporate contemporary materials without compromising the line’s timeless elegance.

<> Current Rolex Yacht-Master Size Options

Rolex’s commitment to innovation and precision is evident in its Yacht-Master collection, offering a diverse range of sizes to cater to a wide spectrum of enthusiasts. The distinct sizes, each with its unique configurations, provide watch aficionados with choices that reflect individual style, wrist dimensions, and personal preferences. In the contemporary lineup, we have three prominent sizes: the graceful 37mm, the classic 40mm, and the commanding 42mm. <>

The 37mm Yacht-Master strikes an exquisite balance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a moderately sized timepiece. It combines the versatility of the larger models with the subtlety of the smaller variants. Its available options are:

Solid Everose Gold with Oysterflex : A blend of Rolex’s signature Everose gold paired with the revolutionary Oysterflex bracelet, this variant exudes luxury while offering comfort.

Steel and Everose: This combination brings together the durability of steel with the warmth of Everose gold, creating a timepiece that’s both functional and visually appealing.

Steel and Platinum : A marriage of rugged steel and the elegance of platinum offers a timepiece that is simultaneously understated and opulent. <>

A direct descendant of the original Yacht-Master, the 40mm retains its predecessor’s essence while embracing modern touches. The available configurations are:

Solid Everose Gold with Oysterflex : Melding the richness of Everose gold with the athletic Oysterflex bracelet, this variant is a testament to luxury and innovation.

Steel and Everose : A harmonious juxtaposition of strength and elegance, this blend serves as a reminder of Rolex’s dedication to craftsmanship.

Steel and Platinum : For those who desire a blend of resilience and luxury, this configuration marries the robustness of steel with the shimmer of platinum. <>

The 42mm Yacht-Master, the newest and largest size in the collection, is designed for those who desire a commanding presence on the wrist. The available models for this size are:

White Gold: A manifestation of pure luxury, the white gold variant radiates understated elegance, making a statement without being ostentatious.

Yellow Gold with Oysterflex Strap : This variant, introduced in 2022, is a nod to Rolex’s heritage, with yellow gold representing the brand’s timeless allure, paired innovatively with the Oysterflex strap.

RLX Titanium with Titanium Bracelet : Introduced in 2023, this model showcases Rolex’s commitment to pioneering new materials. The titanium build not only offers durability but also a modern aesthetic, complemented by a matching titanium bracelet.

<> Discontinued Rolex Yacht-Master Size Options

Over the years, Rolex’s Yacht-Master collection has witnessed the introduction and subsequent retirement of certain sizes, reflecting the brand’s evolution and response to market dynamics. While these sizes might have been phased out of production, they remain significant in Rolex’s storied history and continue to hold a special place in the hearts of collectors. Two such notable sizes are the delicate 29mm and the versatile 35mm.

The 29mm Yacht-Master, designed for slender wrists, offered a blend of Rolex’s craftsmanship in a more compact form. The available configurations for this size were:

Solid Gold : A testament to pure luxury, this variant exuded opulence and was a favorite among those who appreciated the classic Rolex gold touch.

Two-Tone Steel Gold : A harmonious fusion of durability and luxury, this model combined the strength of steel with the warmth of gold.

Steel and Platinum : Merging the robust nature of steel with the elegance of platinum, this configuration offered a refined yet resilient timepiece.

Additionally, this size was available with slate, champagne, blue, and mother-of-pearl (MOP) serti dials, enhancing its appeal. <>

Sitting between the original 40mm and the petite 29mm, the 35mm Yacht-Master catered to those seeking a balanced size. Its available models included:

Solid Gold : Representing Rolex’s longstanding tradition of luxury, this variant showcased the brand’s expertise in crafting exquisite gold timepieces.

Two-Tone Steel Gold : A blend of functionality and opulence, this combination catered to those who wanted the best of both worlds.

Steel and Platinum : For those who preferred a touch of luxury with everyday durability, this pairing offered the perfect balance.

Much like the 29mm, the 35mm also featured the option of slate, champagne, blue, and MOP serti dials, making it a sought-after piece among collectors.

Rolex Yacht-Master Size Guide – Final Thoughts

The Rolex Yacht-Master series embodies a fusion of the brand’s time-honored craftsmanship, innovation, and luxury. Its diverse range of sizes, both current and discontinued, is a testament to Rolex’s dedication to meeting the evolving tastes of watch enthusiasts globally. While the newer sizes and configurations reflect the brand’s forward-thinking approach and embrace of contemporary materials, the spirit and essence of the Yacht-Master remain rooted in its rich maritime heritage and unwavering commitment to excellence.

For individuals keen on delving deeper into the world of Rolex, be it the Yacht-Master collection or any other Rolex timepiece, SwissWatchExpo stands out as a beacon. With its vast collection, profound expertise, and dedication to authenticity, it provides both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts a trusted platform to explore, learn, and invest in timepieces that aren’t just instruments of time, but also heirlooms of history and artistry.

Explore our selection of Rolex Yacht-Master models, along with thousands of authentic, pre-owned watches from the world’s best brands, at SwissWatchExpo.com . <>

A guide to the Rolex Yacht-Master

Over the years, the Rolex Yacht-Master watch has grown significantly, becoming one of the most diverse ranges of Rolex watch available.

The evolution of the luxury brand’s classic sports watch has extended beyond imaginable parallels, offering the avid collector various choices in bracelet style, bezel material and case size over three entire decades. As such, the Yacht-Master continues to prove itself a valuable and dependable mainstay within the manufacturer’s current catalogue, despite many models having become discontinued over the years. To define the Yacht-Master by Rolex, one would categorize it as a luxury sports watch, yet the collection can be broken down into two watches that remain incredibly similar to one another, despite a slightly different name.

. One is the Yacht-Master - a watch that can be considered the original sports model designed by Rolex, intended for setting sail with and enjoying whilst sailing aboard a luxury yacht. The Yacht-Master II, however, is designed for more precise functionality. Equipped with all the technology to enable an individual to record regatta timings, this younger distinction of the model is classified as a watch for racing a yacht as opposed to enjoying alongside a ride on one.

Whether wearing a Rolex Yacht-Master for aesthetical or practical reasons, however, its sleek looks and refined qualities are characteristics that are sought after far and wide amongst Rolex fans. Like with every Rolex, however, there are some factors to research and consider before investing in your very first Yacht-Master and these include pricing, history and features amongst many others.

What are the differences between the Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II?

To break down the key differences between the Rolex Yacht-Master and the Rolex Yacht-Master II, here are a few quick facts. The Yacht-Master is available in sizes of 29mm, 35mm, 37mm, 40mm and 42mm and is manufactured in Rolesium, Everose Rolesor, yellow gold Rolesor, solid 18ct yellow gold, solid 18ct white gold and 18ct Everose gold. The watch offers running hours, minutes and seconds and features a date function at 3 o’clock. A bidirectional rotating bezel has a 60-minute scale upon its surface and each model promises a water resistance of 100 meters. The models are offered on an Oyster bracelet or Oysterflex bracelet. The Rolex Yacht-Master II, however, is available in a 44mm size and is offered in a solid stainless steel version, as well as Everose Rolesor, 18ct yellow gold and 18ct white gold. Function-wise, the models offer running seconds with an adjustable countdown timer with a mechanical memory. The watch also features a ring command bezel, along with 100-meter water resistance and is fitted on an Oyster bracelet.

A brief history of the Rolex Yacht-Master watch collection

A brief history of both the Rolex Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II watches is beneficial before investing in a model from this range. Though not introduced until 1992, the Rolex Yacht-Master watch had foundations secured for its release much earlier than that. The brand had partnered with the New York Yacht Club back in 1958, laying down the roots to its heritage in sailing long before the iconic sports watch was conceptualized. By this point, Rolex had ready developed its first waterproof watch thanks to the 1926 Oyster case.

In 1966, the Gipsy Moth IV yacht was sailed 29,600 miles around the world by Francis Chichester, who wore a Rolex on his wrist amongst very few other measuring tools including a sextant and nautical chart. Thanks to the Rolex Oyster Perpetual watch he wore during his journey, time could be tracked amongst rough conditions for an entire 226 days whilst at sea. It put Rolex officially on the radar of seafarers as a manufacturer capable of producing robust and reliable tools for facing the challenging conditions experienced at sea.

In 1992 the world’s first official Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master was released and was crafted entirely from 18ct yellow gold, cementing its status as a luxury tool watch. Over the next 15 years, Rolex would experiment with various case materials until in 2007, the first Yacht-Master II was born. Sportsmen could utilize this tool watch whilst regatta racing – its chronograph features stood out clearly and legibly across the surface of the dial. A programmable countdown timer enabled the individual to measure the countdown time before a race commences for improved precision and a better start to the competition. With flyback and fly-forward functionality, synchronization with the Race Committee was a breeze.

Current Popular Rolex Yacht-Master models

As mentioned, it is the Yacht-Master’s affinity with the sea and its diverse range of styles and case materials that make this collection so widely sought-after within the Rolex watch stratosphere. Paired with cutting-edge technology and primed for yacht race competing, the series has much to offer any luxury sports watch fan. Here are just a few Rolex Yacht-Master watches that have proven their popularity as both a tool and an investment since their release.

Rolex Yacht-Master ref 126622

Rolex Yacht-Master watches made from Rolesium make for an interesting talking point to wear with elegant attire and often make for sophisticated gifts to mark an anniversary or wedding day, especially for those who prefer their wristwatches to exude a very classic look. That said, Rolex packs a lot of modern technology into the design of a Yacht-Master watch such as the model 1266, which not only offers a very compact and manageable case size for those with a slender wrist but has also been forged from a material that is exclusive to the Yacht-Master watch range itself. Stainless Steel and platinum are materials chosen for their robust, corrosion-resistant and luxurious properties, whilst the three-link design of the oyster bracelet creates a timeless look whether paired with elegant or casual attire. Polished middle links and brushed outer links create a unique look against the wrist, especially when you consider that these finishes differ from those seen in the Rolex Submariner and Sea-Dweller models, which instead offer a fully brushed bracelet finish.

Rolex Yacht-Master ref 116680

One of the most popular Rolex Yacht-Master watches has to be the ref 116680 with a blue ceramic bezel. Rolex had begun equipping its watches with Cerachrom bezels back in the year 2005. This model was made available in stainless steel, two-tone Everose, or yellow gold, and since it belongs to the Yacht-Master II collection, measures a broad 44mm diameter. As of 2019, Rolex Yacht-Master II watches were equipped with the Calibre 3235 – a trusted workhorse for many of Rolex’s models. Framed inside this striking blue bezel is a white dial adorned with a small second sub-counter in blue at 6 o’clock, along with a countdown that can be programmed for a duration of between 1 and 10 minutes. The programming is memorized by the mechanism so that at a reset it returns to the previous setting and once launched, can be synchronized on the fly to match the official race countdown.

Rolex Yacht-Master ref 116655

The Rolex Yacht-Master ref 116656 is, without a doubt, one of the most coveted and popular models from this series of luxury sports watches. The model not only features a matte black ceramic bezel but features a set of two-textured, highly polished and raised numerals upon its sandblasted surface. The watch is fitted to an Oysterflex bracelet, promising all-round comfort and thanks to its unusual choice of contrasting rich black and luxurious pink gold colours, can be enjoyed by both male and female Rolex fans alike. An Everose case and gold serrated ring complete its look, combining nicely with the elegant black bezel, whilst on the display itself, cathedral-type hands and a cyclops date window reside.

The Rolex Yacht-Master II ref 226659

Slightly larger in size is the 42mm Rolex Yacht-Master II watch with the reference 226659, which features a stunning 18ct white gold case and bezel with a striking black Cerachrom bezel inlay for precise tracking of elapsed time. The Oysterflex bracelet is just one of the many appealing features of the Rolex Yacht-Master series. Although creating the aesthetic and sporty look of a rubber strap with its outer elastomer rubber shell in black - inside the structure of the bracelet is a series of flexible metal inserts. The Rolex Yacht-Master II ref 226659 debuted in 2019 with the desirable Calibre 3235 secured to the heart of its case, creating plenty of power reserve for those occasions when taken off the wrist, promising superior reliability and accuracy. Its classic black and white gold colourway make it easy to pair wot formal, casual or elegant attire.

There will always be plenty of reasons to invest in a Rolex Yacht-Master watch. Having been equipped with a reliable movement and a set of unique features that enable superior regatta timings out on the water, there is little else on the market that matches the supreme craftsmanship and instantly recognizable aesthetics of the iconic Rolex Yacht-Master watch. Whether you have any use for the polarizing watch’s regatta timer feature or not, it is one of the most niche complications watches imaginable. The Yacht-Master will always be a timepiece that holds its value, symbolizing a brand of significant provenance and value.

More Rolex guides

To find out more about which Rolex hold their value you can read more of our guides where we cover all Rolex Nicknames or our classic guide to the Day Date models and our comparision with their sister brand: Rolex vs Tudor .

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The Watch Of The Open Seas: History Of The Rolex Yacht-Master

Instagram: @rolex

In the year 1992, Swiss watchmaker Rolex would debut a new model line at the Baselworld show that was strikingly similar to the already-popular Submariner. It featured the same 40mm Oyster case with a rotating bezel, the same chronometer-certified caliber, and the same Oyster bracelet.

Seemingly the only difference between the two was the white dial of that first Yacht-Master, a style which has never been an option on a Sub, and the inferior depth rating of 100m when compared to the Sub’s 300m.

Yet, the Yacht-Master was well-received upon launch, and with the passing of time, the yachting-inspired model has evolved and pioneered its own path within Rolex’s catalog.

Read on with us as we go back to the beginning and track the catalysts that paved the way for the most recent Yacht-Master release, the Yacht-Master 42 (226659), to become one of the hottest sports timepieces of the year.

History Of The Rolex Yacht-Master

We’ve broken down our overview of the Yacht-Master into the following segments:

• Release Of The Yacht-Master

The Submariner/Yacht-Master Theory

• Mid-Size & Ladies’ Yacht-Master
• Platinum (Rolesium) Yacht-Master

The Maxi Dial Yacht-Master

• Two-Tone Rolesor Yacht-Master

The Yacht-Master II

• Six-Digit Yacht-Master

The Oysterflex Yacht-Master

Keep scrolling to read this guide from its beginning, or use the links above to jump down to a specific point.

Browse Bob’s Watches Rolex Catalogue

The Release Of The Yacht-Master

The first Yacht-Master watch was launched in 1992 under reference number 16628. It featured a yellow gold case, a bidirectional graduated bezel, and a matching full-gold Oyster bracelet. Its dial was white with black hour indices, while at center were gold Mercedes hands, and beating inside was the 3135 movement.

Rolex ref. 16628. Instagram: @m_j_watches

Previous to the Yacht-Master’s introduction, Rolex had not released a new model line in a quarter century. So, why did they go with the Yacht-Master, a design that risked being a detractor from their existing Submariner? Let’s take a look at the inspiration.

The sport of yachting is one which demands precise timing and extreme coordination of the entire crew for optimal performance, particularly in offshore competitions.

Prototype Daytona Yacht-Master ref. 6239. Image: Christies.com

Rolex believed their waterproof and chronometer-grade timepieces to be more than qualified to handle the knocks of a regatta and keep ticking accurately. The brand is also notorious for their marketing prowess, which led them to act quickly in establishing an association with the sport.

Beginning in 1958 with their first sponsorship of a race, the relationship has endured until today, when the brand sponsors over a dozen international yachting events.

Nevertheless, it’s hard to deny that there exists a large gap between first contact in 1958 and the release of the yacht-inspired timepiece in the early ’90s. Why wasn’t the Yacht-Master released earlier on?

Well, Rolex played around with the idea of yachting chronograph early on, though it never materialized. All that’s left of these trials are an extremely limited number of Daytona ref. 6239 chronograph prototypes with a 39mm case (vs standard 36mm) and modified regatta dials.

Unfortunately, the Yacht-Master concept was scrapped and would not reappear until decades later.

When it did return, none of the previous Yacht-Master’s DNA was there. Furthermore, the 1992 Yacht-Master was bizarrely similar to the 16610 Sub of the time.

Interestingly enough, Rolex folklore tells of a time in the ’80s when the brand sought to update their Submariner . What resulted was less of an update and more of an overhaul, manifested as what we know now as the first Yacht-Master.

Apprehensive of the repercussions that making such aggressive design changes to their staple offering could bring, the brand chose instead to release the watch intended to be a new Submariner as the reborn Yacht-Master instead.

The move worked, and the new Yacht-Masters started flying off the shelves. The Yacht-Master was perceived as a more luxurious Sub, though its bidirectional bezel proved useful for on-the-fly countdowns which are critical in sailing competitions. The waterproof nature of the Oyster case further cemented the Yacht-Master as the ideal first mate.

Mid-Size & Ladies’ Yacht-Master

In 1994, just two years after the debut of the 16628, Rolex would introduce the same design but in smaller case sizes. These were:

• Ref. 68628: Yacht-Master “Mid-Size” in 35mm
• Ref. 69628: Yacht-Master Ladies’ in 29mm

This marked the first time that Rolex ever offered one of their sports models in a smaller case size; all previous instances of case size changes were increases as opposed to reductions. It has been speculated that the smaller cases were intended for the Asian market.

Yacht-Master ref. 16628. Instagram: @thewatchcentre

In the same year, Rolex also offered the same 16628 but this time with a deep blue dial. Blue dials tend to make for broadly-liked watches, and coupled with the gold case and bracelet, the new version was once again a hit.

The Platinum (Rolesium) Yacht-Master

The next update to the model line would come in 1999 with yet another home-run: the Rolesium Yacht-Master. The new watch featured a stainless steel case and bracelet with a platinum dial and platinum-insert bezel. Rolesium, a term registered by Rolex back in the ’30s for a combination of steel and platinum in a watch, was finally put to use.

The new platinum Yacht-Master ref. 16622 was not only more accessible than the previous all-gold varieties, it was also more versatile. This would lead the 16622 variety to become the face of the Yacht-Master line.

In fact, many online resources erroneously label it the first Yacht-Master ever; this should offer an idea of how emblematic it is in the watch industry.

The 16622 also presented a new dial and hand style that would mark Rolex as a whole through to the modern day. The new Yacht-Master boasted what is now recognized as the “maxi dial”.

Rolex Yacht-Master 16628 w/ maxi dial. Instagram: @kellokonttori

The maxi dial is characterized by oversized hour indices as well as larger hands at center. To the untrained eye, the difference may be difficult to spot, though experienced collectors will note the change instantly.

The maxi dial became the style of choice for all modern Rolex sports watches, though it got its start in the 1999 platinum Yacht-Master. A Submariner would first feature a maxi dial in 2003, with the release of the 50th anniversary Rolex Submariner “Kermit” (16610LV).

All versions of the Yacht-Master produced after the introduction of the maxi dial would also feature the new dial design. This included the blue, gold, and white dial versions from years past.

The Two-Tone (Rolesor) Yacht-Master

Six years after the Rolesium Yacht-Master came to be, Rolex would once more put on display their mixed-metal Rolesor style in the two-tone Yacht-Master 16623.

Yacht-Master ref. 16623. Instagram: @v.davidofftimepieces

The 2005 debuts possessed a 40mm steel case, a yellow gold bidirectional bezel, and a two-tone Oyster bracelet. As far as dials, many of the previous styles were also available like the black-on-white, though mother of pearl version were also introduced.

It was during Baselworld 2007 when Rolex would introduce the Yacht-Master’s younger and much larger sibling, the Yacht-Master II. Whereas the original Yacht-Master was very close functionally to the Sub, the Yacht-Master II was completely the opposite.

It can be said that the only overlap between the YM and the YMII is be the name, as the second iteration looks like a whole new watch. This time, though, it’s clear that the watch has been designed with the needs of yachting professionals in mind.

The first Yacht-Master II were marked by a 44mm Oyster case, an Oyster bracelet, a white dial,  and a blue Cerachrom (ceramic) Ring Command bezel. The first two references, 116688 and 116689, were made of yellow gold and white gold, respectively.

Powering the YMII was another innovation – Rolex’s in-house calibre 4161. It features the COSC-chronometer certification and 72-hour power reserve that are today’s standard, though they were industry-leading at the time. Most notable, though, was the 4161 movement’s functions.

The new caliber boasted a “ programmable countdown with mechanical memory and on-the-fly synchronization. ” Naturally, the programming of the movement required the use of the Ring Command bezel, a feature which had also never been encountered on a Rolex watch before.

In later years, Rolex would go on to release Rolesor and full-steel versions of the Yacht-Master II, both of which have been relatively successful. The Yacht-Master II has certainly earned a spot in the brand’s catalog, and is sure to stick around for next couple of decades.

The Six-Digit Yacht-Master

Yacht-Master 116622

Twenty years after it debuted as the 16628, the Yacht-Master would see in 2012 the modernization that had been sweeping Rolex’s other model families.

Aside from receiving a new six-digit reference number (116622), subtle aesthetic changes were also present, as was an outstanding new dial option – the Cobalt Blue dial.

The case was now a “super case”, which retained the 40mm diameter but was styled differently. The bezel was now completely platinum, where previous versions were made of steel with a platinum insert. The Oyster bracelet had likewise been upgraded.

A platinum bezel / platinum dial option was still part of the collection and therefore received the same upgrades. Unfortunately, this iconic “albino” look would be completely discontinued in 2017.

The subsequent and most recent significant change to the Yacht-Master family took place in 2015, when Rolex first introduced the Everose Yacht-Master 40 ref. 116655.

Rolex Everose Yacht-Master on Oysterflex bracelet

The newest iteration of the YM possessed some new features. The case was made of Everose, and the bezel now boasted a black Cerachrom insert. Securing the watch to the wrist was another Rolex first – the Oysterflex rubber ‘bracelet’.

Before the 116655, no Rolex watch had ever sported a rubber band. The brand still refers to it as a bracelet given the metal elements within the band, but these are not obvious even with the watch in the hand.

This same style of Yacht-Master would receive the next update in 2019, when Rolex introduced the Yacht-Master 42 in white gold.

What’s Next?

With the recent changes that the Yacht-Master line has had, it is clear that Rolex intends to keep this model family alive and well for years to come. Consumers are likewise responding to each new release, offering plenty of feedback with their pocketbooks.

If you’d like to read up on any of Rolex’s other model families, make sure to check out some of our extensive watch guides below:

• History Of The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
• Overview Of The Most Luxurious Pilot’s Watch: The GMT-Master
• How Did The Day-Date Become The President’s Watch?
• Review Of Rolex’s Longest Running Watch Model
• Rolex Watches That Could Become The Investment Of A Lifetime

"I have always been a fan of the Yacht-Master, but I had no idea that it didn't exist until the 1990s. Thanks for the information, and thanks for keeping it entertaining. Well done!"

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Rolex Sizes: A Complete Guide

In recent years, Rolex has been tinkering with its watch case sizes, adding a millimeter or two here and there. With all these changes, we thought it’d be worth having a comprehensive look at all the Rolex watch sizes available across its collections. You may be surprised at just how many different Rolex sizes are out there! From vintage references and discontinued models to current watches, welcome to the complete guide to Rolex sizes.

44mm Rolex Watches

• Rolex Yacht-Master II
• Rolex Deepsea

44mm is the largest case size offered in Rolex’s lineup and only two models have them: the Yacht-Master II regatta chronograph and Deepsea diving watch.

Rolex introduced the the Yacht-Master II in 2007, fitted with a regatta chronograph for competitive sailors. The 44mm Yacht-Master case is available in a range of materials including steel, yellow gold, or two-tone steel and Everose gold–all topped with a bright blue Cerachrom ceramic bezel. There’s also the white gold version with a platinum bezel.

The Deepsea made its debut in 2008 and at the time, it was the largest Rolex watch ever made. Built to withstand the pressure at 12,800 feet deep into the ocean, the Deepsea’s 44m case is fashioned from stainless steel (with a titanium caseback) and it sports a black Cerachrom cerachrom bezel.

43mm Rolex Watches

• Rolex Sea-Dweller 43

The newest size to join the Rolex catalog, there’s currently only one model with a 43mm case: the latest Sea-Dweller. When Rolex released the newest Sea-Dweller in 2017, it discontinued the 40mm versions in favor of this larger case size.

The two versions of the Sea-Dweller 43 include the full stainless steel version and the two-tone steel and yellow gold version, both featuring black Cerachrom ceramic bezels.

42mm Rolex Watches

• Rolex Explorer II 42
• Rolex Sky-Dweller
• Rolex Yacht-Master 42

The three Rolex watches that come with 42mm sized cases include the Explorer II, the Sky-Dweller, and the Yacht-Master 42.

First introduced in 1971, the Explorer II’s case size has evolved a few times over the decades. To celebrate the model’s 40th anniversary in 2011, Rolex released the largest Explorer II ever made, featuring a 42mm case. As is tradition for the collection, the 42mm Explorer II is exclusively available in stainless steel and includes a 24-hour engraved steel bezel.

The Sky-Dweller annual calendar watch is Rolex’s newest model, first released in 2012. It is also Rolex’s largest dress watch, fitted with a 42mm case and a prominent fluted bezel. The Sky-Dweller case is available in a variety of materials such as yellow gold, white gold, Everose gold, two-tone steel and yellow gold, and steel with a white gold bezel.

The Yacht-Master nautical watch has always come in a variety of sizes and in 2019, Rolex released the largest version yet with a 42mm case. The Yacht-Master 42 is exclusively available with a white gold case equipped with a matte black Cerachrom bezel.

41mm Rolex Watches

• Rolex Day-Date II
• Rolex Datejust II
• Rolex Datejust 41
• Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41
• Rolex Submariner 41 / Submariner Date 41

There are quite a few models that fall into the 41mm Rolex case size range. There are the discontinued Day-Date II and Datejust II watches, the current Datejust 41 watches, and the brand new Submariner 41 and Oyster Perpetual 41.

In 2008, Rolex released a larger version of its prestigious Day-Date “President” watch with a 41mm case instead of the traditional 36mm. It was called the Day-Date II and like all other Rolex President watches, it’s exclusively available in gold or platinum. The Day-Date II came to an end in 2015 when Rolex replaced it with the slightly smaller Day-Date 40.

Rolex took a similar approach to the Datejust lineup by launching the Datejust II with a larger-than-ever 41mm case in 2009 to site alongside the classic Datejust 36. As is the norm for this particular model, the Datejust II was available in a slew of material and bezel options, ranging from simpler steel models with smooth bezels to two-tone versions with gold fluted bezels. Following in the footsteps of the discontinued Day-Date II, the Datejust II was also replaced by a revamped model (called the Datejust 41) in 2016. As its name suggests, the Datejust 41 is fitted with a 41mm case, which is the same measurement as the Datejust II but with some notable differences. The overall style of the Datejust 41 is more refined compared to the sportier Datejust II thanks to slimmer lugs, a thinner bezel, and smaller hour markers.

The Oyster Perpetual has always been one of the most varied in terms of Rolex sizes and in 2020 a brand new size joined the collection–the Oyster Perpetual 41. The Oyster Perpetual 41 supplanted the Oyster Perpetual 39 as the largest option in the collection and like all modern OP watches, it is crafted from stainless steel and has a smooth bezel.

2020 also brought about big changes for Rolex’s flagship dive watch when the brand announced an entirely new Submariner collection. Rather than its once-traditional 40mm case, the new Submariner watches all feature slightly larger 41mm cases–still topped with Cerachrom ceramic bezels. In addition to the 1mm increase, the lugs have been slimmed down, the bracelet widened by 1mm, and the crown guards were shaved down a tad, which results in a profile more similar to classic pre- “Super Case” Submariners. The Submariner 41 is only available in stainless steel while the Submariner Date offers a choice of stainless steel (black or green bezel), two-tone steel/yellow gold (black or blue bezel, yellow gold (black or blue bezel), or white gold (blue bezel).

40mm Rolex Watches

• Rolex Submariner 40 / Submariner Date 40
• Rolex GMT-Master / GMT-Master II
• Rolex Sea-Dweller 40
• Rolex Explorer II 40
• Rolex Daytona
• Rolex Yacht-Master 40
• Rolex Milgauss
• Rolex Air-King 40
• Rolex Day-Date 40

One of the most common sizes in the brand’s collection, 40mm has been the go-to diameter for Rolex sports watches like the Submariner, GMT-Master, Sea-Dweller, Daytona, and Yacht-Master. What’s more, other Rolex models, such as the Air-King, Milgauss, and Day-Date, that were traditionally smaller have now adopted the 40mm case size.

Once Rolex introduced crown guards to the Submariner watch in 1959, the case size of the watch grew to 40mm (it was previously 38mm). For the next six decades, the Submariner always had a 40mm case. The no-date Submariner has always been exclusively in stainless steel. On the other hand, the stainless steel Submariner Date was eventually joined by gold (first yellow, then white) and two-tone Submariner Date variants along the way. Depending on the era, a 40mm Submariner can either have an aluminum bezel insert or a Cerachrom ceramic bezel. The Cerachrom Submariner 40 watches are noted for having the “Super Case,” which wears bigger thanks to thick lugs and broad crown guards.

Similarly, when Rolex introduced crown guards to the GMT-Master in 1959, the watch also grew to 40mm from 38mm. Since then, the GMT-Master (and the succeeding GMT-Master II) have always featured 40mm cases. All 40mm GMT-Master watches have aluminum bezels and cases can be made from stainless steel, yellow gold, or two-tone yellow gold/stainless steel. Conversely, GMT-Master II watches used to come equipped with aluminum bezels but they now feature Cerahcrom ones. Rolex once offered yellow gold and two-tone yellow gold/stainless steel GMT-Master II watches but these options have been discontinued. Instead, the 40mm cases of the GMT-Master II watches are now available in steel, white gold, Everose gold, or two-tone Everose gold/steel.

When the Sea-Dweller was first introduced in 1967, it featured the same 40mm case size of the Submariner of the era. However, as a tool watch for saturation divers, the Sea-Dweller was equipped with a Helium Escape Valve and boasted a water depth rating of 610 meters (compared to the 200-meter rating of the Submariner at that time.) Rolex continued to make the Sea-Dweller with a stainless steel 40mm case (first with aluminum bezels then with Cerachrom ones) until the Sea-Dweller 40 was discontinued to make way for the Sea-Dweller 43 in 2017.

The second and third generation of the Explorer II watch featured 40mm cases. These two references were produced from 1985 until 2011 and they all sport stainless steel cases and metal bezels engraved with a 24-hour scale.

While the Daytona began its life as a manual-winding chronograph with a 37mm case, in 1988 Rolex revamped the model and launched the automatic Daytona with a 40mm case. The Daytona has since retained the 40mm case size and over the last three decades, Rolex has expanded the collection to include steel, yellow gold, white gold, Everose gold, platinum, and two-tone steel/yellow models. Furthermore, there are Daytona watches with metal bezels or Cerachrom ceramic bezels–all featuring a tachymeter scale.

When Rolex released the first Yacht-Master watch in 1992, it featured a 40mm case in full yellow gold with a matching yellow gold bezel. While other sizes have since joined the Yacht-Master collection, the Yacht-Master 40 remains the most popular choice. Discontinued 40mm Yacht-Master editions include the yellow gold and the two-tone stainless steel/yellow gold variants while current versions include the stainless steel with a platinum bezel, the Everose gold, and the two-tone steel and Everose gold models.

Though the Milgauss antimagnetic watch has a history that dates back to the mid-1950s, Rolex discontinued the model in 1988. However, in 2007, the Milgauss returned. Restyled for the modern era, the contemporary Milgauss is still only available in stainless steel but features a larger 40mm case. As its name suggests, the Milgauss is antimagnetic to 1,000 (mille in French) gauss (a unit used to measure magnetism).

The Air-King is another Rolex watch with a long history that has undergone a restyling for the modern era. Leaving behind its petite 34mm case behind, the new-generation Air-King is equipped with a 40mm steel case, a smooth bezel, and a black dial punctuated with colorful green and yellow accents.

The largest current-production Rolex President watch is the Day-Date 40, which debuted in 2015 to replace the 41mm Day-Date II. The 40mm case of the Day-Date 40 is available in yellow gold, white gold, Everose gold, and platinum. The gold variants are offered with a fluted bezel or a diamond-set bezel while the platinum version is offered with a smooth bezel or a diamond-set bezel.

39mm Rolex Watches

• Rolex Explorer II (vintage)
• Rolex Day-Date Masterpiece
• Rolex Explorer 39
• Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39
• Rolex Pearlmaster 39

From dress watches like the Day-Date Masterpiece and Pearlmaster to sports watches like the Explorer and Explorer II to daily watches like the Oyster Perpetual, 39mm Rolex watches come in a variety of styles.

Though current versions are much bigger, the Explorer II started out as a 39mm watch when it was presented in 1971. The 39mm Explorer II featured a steel case with a 24-hour engraved steel bezel and it was produced until 1985. The original Explorer II reference is a highly collectible vintage Rolex watch that’s often nicknamed the “ Steve McQueen .”

Relatively unknown compared to the classic Day-Date “President,” the special-edition Day-Date Masterpiece is a combination of a 39mm Day-Date case and a five-link Pearlmaster bracelet. It was only produced for a short while in the early 2000s and like all Day-Date watches, it was strictly made in precious metals.

In 2010, Rolex’s longest-running sports watch, the Explorer, underwent a major change when its case size grew to 39mm from its traditional 36mm case. Despite its larger dimensions, the Explorer 39 is still instantly recognizable thanks to its stainless steel construction, smooth bezel, and black dial with oversized 3/6/9 Arabic numerals.

In 2015, a new 39mm size was added to the Oyster Perpetual collection. The Oyster Perpetual 39 was the largest model available until 2020 when it was replaced by the Oyster Perpetual 41. Like all modern versions, the Oyster Perpetual 39 was only made in stainless steel and featured a smooth bezel.

2015 also saw the addition of a larger Pearlmaster model with a 39mm case. The defining characteristics of Pearlmaster is its precious metal construction, diamond embellishments, and of course, the curvy five-link Pearlmaster bracelet. The Pearlmaster 39 remains in the current Rolex collection and is one of the priciest watches made by the brand.

38mm Rolex Watches

• Rolex Submariner (early vintage models)
• Rolex GMT-Master (early vintage models)
• Rolex Milgauss (vintage)

Rolex currently doesn’t make any 38mm watches but two of its most famous sports watches, the Submariner and the GMT-Master, began as 38mm watches. The earliest Submariners and GMT-Masters with 38mm cases were made from the mid to late 1950s and do not include crown guards. These are some of the most collectible vintage Rolex watches in today’s market.

The Milgauss antimagnetic watch also originally came with a 38mm stainless steel case when it was released in 1956. The Milgauss retained the 38mm case size (always in steel) throughout several references until it was shelved in 1988.

37mm Rolex Watches

• Rolex Daytona (early vintage models)
• Rolex Yacht-Master 37

Like the Submariner and GMT-Master, the Daytona also began as a smaller watch than today’s versions. Vintage Daytona chronographs, which were produced from 1963 until 1988, have 37mm cases (in steel or yellow gold, with metal or acrylic bezels) that house the manual movements that power the watches. These are by far the most sought after vintage Rolex watches in the collector’s market.

In 2015, Rolex unveiled a never-before-seen 37mm Yacht-Master size. The Yacht-Master 37 replaces the now-discontinued Yacht-Master 35 and Yacht-Master 29 as the smallest option within the collection. It is available in Everose gold with a black Cerachrom bezel, in stainless steel with a platinum bezel, or in two-tone steel and Everose gold with an Everose gold bezel.

36mm Rolex Watches

• Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36
• Rolex Datejust 36
• Rolex Day-Date 36
• Rolex Explorer 36

It’s hard to believe but it wasn’t that long ago that 36mm was the largest size option for non-sport Rolex watches like the Datejust, Day-Date, and Oyster Perpetual. And the Explorer had a 36mm for most of its history.

The Oyster Perpetual is the watch that established Rolex as a watchmaking force due to its appealing combination of a waterproof case (Oyster) and an automatic movement (Perpetual). It dates back to the 1930s and has served as the blueprint for most Rolex watches throughout the company’s illustrious history. The Oyster Perpetual has come in a bevy of sizes and metals throughout the decades. Today, it is exclusively produced in stainless steel and is considered Rolex’s entry-level model. The Oyster Perpetual 36 is one of many sizes available within the current OP collection.

The Datejust was released in 1945 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Rolex brand. It was the first automatic wristwatch to have a window on the dial to indicate the date and it came with a 36mm case. More than 75 years later, the 36mm Datejust is still at the heart of the collection–available in a dizzying assortment of metals and bezel styles–but it has since been joined by both smaller and larger sizes.

The Day-Date launched in 1956 as the first automatic wristwatch to display the date and the day of the week spelled out in full in a window on the dial. It is now more commonly known as the Rolex President watch thanks in part to its iconic President bracelet but also because it is the watch you’re most likely to see on the wrist of the world’s most powerful people. It too came with a 36mm size case, but unlike the Datejust, the Day-Date has only ever been available in either gold or platinum. The Day-Date 36 is now the smallest Presidential watch available in Rolex’s lineup.

Rolex Sizes Smaller Than 36mm

Rolex watches with cases smaller than 36mm are generally categorized as midsize watches and ladies watches. The Rolex watches that offer models in these smaller size options include the Yacht-Master, the Air-King, the Datejust, the Date, the Pearlmaster, and the Oyster Perpetual. Some of these models have been discontiued while others are currently being produced by Rolex.

• Air-King 35mm (discontinued)
• Yacht-Master 35mm (discontinued)
• Air-King 34mm (discontinued)
• Oyster Perpetual 34
• Pearlmaster 34
• Date 31 (discontinued)
• Datejust 31mm
• Oyster Perpetual 31
• Pearlmaster 29 (discontinued)
• Yacht-Master 29 (discontinued)
• Lady-Datejust 28mm
• Oyster Perpetual 28
• Lady-Datejust 26mm (discontinued)
• Date 26 (discontinued)
• Oyster Perpetual 26 (discontinued)
• Oyster Perpetual 24 (discontinued)

A Slew of Rolex Sizes

It’s evident that Rolex sizes have generally become larger in recent years. Some models have been entirely replaced by bigger versions, some collections have welcomed larger options, and some entirely new watches have come with generously-sized cases.

Yet, there are still plenty of smaller options for those who want them–particularly in the pre-owned watch market . In short, from petite to large, there is a perfect Rolex size for any wrist.

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Rolex Watch Case Size

Rolex Sizing Guide: Find The Right Size For Your Wrist

There are a lot of factors that people consider when buying a watch – the dial, the hands, the type of bracelet, the style of the bezel. However, one thing that often tends to be an afterthought is the size of the watch itself, and this is arguably one of the most important things to consider when shopping for a  Rolex watch . Despite the familiar, iconic aesthetic enduring from one generation of watches to the next, Rolex has made minor revisions and enhancements to the cases over the years, so even two models with the same case diameter may wear differently on the wrist.

Just like clothes, it is important that your watch fits you correctly. This doesn’t just mean that the strap or bracelet needs to fit around your wrist; the actual size of the watch itself can have a significant impact on the overall wearing experience. Although personal preference will always be paramount, finding the right size watch for your wrist will go a long way towards guaranteeing a happy ownership experience.

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How To Size Your Rolex Correctly

When finding the right size Rolex for your wrist, there are many important measurements and proportions to consider other than the actual case size of the watch itself. Two watches with identical case diameters can wear significantly different should they have different thickness or lug-to-lug measurements. Additionally, various protrusions from the case such as winding crowns, chronograph pushers, lugs, and crown-guards can also drastically alter the overall wearing experience and should be taken into account whenever you are purchasing a new watch.

Similarly, in addition to the strap or bracelet fitting properly around your wrist, the width of the strap can also have a significant impact on the overall wearing appearance. Furthermore, the amount of taper in the strap or bracelet is also highly important. A bracelet with a steep taper will wear quite a bit smaller than one that maintains the same width the entire way across. At the end of the day, the absolute best way to find the right watch for your wrist is to try them on in person, but keeping these factors in mind will significantly help narrow down your search.

How To Measure a Rolex

First, you should be aware of the industry norms. The diameter of a watch is its external width across its horizontal axis (from 9 o’clock to 3 o’clock), The vast majority of diameters are listed without taking into account the protrusion of the crown or crown guards. That means the “case size” number listed is almost always the diameter of the case, but not the amount of real estate that will be taken up by the watch once it is on your wrist.

Typically, watch measurements are taken with a Vernier tool (a pair of measuring calipers), and expressed in millimeters. The given case diameter measurement of a watch can often be a bit misleading due to the multitude of other factors and dimensions that have an equally important impact on the overall wearing experience. Additionally, it is also worth noting that square or rectangular watches will often wear larger than their case diameters might otherwise indicate, since the diameter applies across the entire watch, rather than just at its widest point (like with a watch that has a circular case).

Case Size (Rolex Width)

When you see a case size listed for a Rolex watch, this measurement typically corresponds to its diameter, which could be considered the width of the watch. Since most Rolex watches feature round cases, the diameter is often representative of the widest point of the case (excluding the lugs or winding crown).

Despite this case diameter being the go-to measurement for watches, this can often be a bit misleading since it is only representative of the width across a watch at a single point. The shape of the case, along with all its various protrusions such as the winding crown, lugs, crown-guards, and chronograph pushers can all drastically alter the overall wearing experience of a watch. For example, the Rolex Submariner ref. 116610 has the same 40mm case diameter as its predecessor (ref. 16610); however, it appears significantly larger due to its thicker lugs and crown guards.

Case Thickness (Rolex Height)

When we talk about the “height” of a watch, we are talking about how thick it is, or how tall it will stand up on your wrist. This measurement often gets overshadowed by case diameter, but the thickness or height of a watch can sometimes be the difference between one model being a perfect fit and the other being almost unwearable. With the exception of purpose-built tool watches like the Yacht-Master II and Deepsea, most Rolex models are reasonably thin, but it is still important to keep this dimension in mind when searching for the right model for your wrist.

Additionally, the type of watch can also have a significant impact on how thick it can be. Typically, dress watches wear better if they are thin and can easily slip under a shirt cuff. Conversely, a professional dive watch can actually benefit from being slightly thicker due to a taller bezel design offering more room to grip on the side of the bezel. However, your wrist size and shape are always going to be the greatest determining factors in terms of how thick of a watch you can comfortably wear.

Case Lug-to-Lug (Rolex Length)

Although the term “length” is not often used to describe the lug-to-lug measurement, it is an appropriate one in this context. This measurement has nothing to do with the distance between the lugs (also known as lug-width) – this will denote the width of the strap or bracelet that your watch requires. Instead the lug-to-lug measurement corresponds to the distance from the tip of one lug to the tip of its opposite equal. This “length” is very important because it can vastly impact the overall wearability of a watch – arguably more than the actual case-diameter of the watch itself.

For the vast majority of wristwatches, the lugs stick out from either side of the case (on the top and bottom). While the case diameter represents the size of the case itself, it does not include how far the lugs stick out beyond that, and it is this lug-to-lug measurement that is often the most accurate representation of the overall perceived size of a watch once it is on your wrist. A watch may have a very manageable case diameter, but if its lugs stick out far beyond the edges of its case, its lug-to-lug measurement may ultimately make it difficult to wear on smaller wrists.

Other Rolex Measurements to Consider

Beyond the case diameter, thickness, and lug-to-lug measurements of a watch, there are also a few other dimensions and proportions that can significantly impact the overall perceived size of a watch. While you will not often see these numbers listed on Rolex watch specifications sheets, they are still important to keep in mind when shopping for a Rolex, as they can dramatically impact the overall wearing experience of a given model.

Lug Dimensions and Shape

Despite playing a major role in the overall look and feel of a watch, rarely will you ever see any measurements listed in regards to the actual lugs themselves. Lug-to-lug measurements are sometimes listed; but most luxury watch brands (including Rolex) never include these measurements on their website.

Most Rolex watches feature very standard lugs, so their dimensions are less of a consideration when trying to figure out which size of Rolex you should get. However, the actual shape of the lugs and their size in proportion to the rest of the case can have a noticeable impact on the overall wearing experience of a watch. For example, the Rolex Submariner ref. 124060 features a 41mm case, while its predecessor (ref. 114060) features a 40mm case. However, since the lugs of the ref. 114060 Submariner are slightly thicker than those of the ref. 124060, the two watches actually feel incredibly similar on the wrist, despite their different case sizes.

Bezel Sizes and Proportions

Bezel sizes are rarely ever listed for watches, but the size of the bezel – and more importantly, the style of it and its size relative to the rest of the watch – can drastically alter the overall wearing experience. Since case diameters are typically the measurement most often used to describe the “size” of a watch, the size and style of the bezel is another aspect of a watch’s proportions that frequently gets overlooked.

A perfect example of this are the two vintage Rolex Daytona watches from the final series of the first generation. Both ref. 6263 and ref. 6265 Daytona watches feature cases with identical proportions; however the black acrylic bezel found on the reference 6263 is ever so slightly wider than the steel bezel of the reference 6265 and does not slope downwards towards the edges, so the ref. 6263 has a noticeably larger presence on the wrist.

Crystal Sizes

Beyond bezel and lug proportions, the crystal size of a Rolex is another factor that can significantly alter its overall look and feel on your wrist. Just like with the bezel and lugs, the proportions of the crystal relative to the case size can influence the overall wearing experience of a watch. Generally speaking, the bigger the crystal is relative to the overall case size of the watch, the larger the watch itself will feel on your wrist, because a greater percentage of its overall size is allocated to its display.

For example, both the Rolex Submariner 126610LV and the Rolex Datejust 126333 have official case diameters of 41mm. With that in mind, the crystal found on the Datejust 41 is quite a bit larger than the one on the Submariner, so the Datejust will likely feel a bit larger on the wrist, regardless of the fact that the two watches actually have the exact same outer case diameters.

Bracelets and Straps Sizes

Just like everything else, the strap or bracelet fitted to your Rolex can have a significant impact on its overall perceived size. Both the style of the strap or bracelet, along with other factors such as its width and the amount of taper it has can drastically alter the way that the watch wears on your wrist. Typically, the wider the strap, the larger it will feel on your wrist, but a steep taper can often offset a wide measurement at the lugs, simply because the width at the clasp is smaller.

Additionally, the style of the strap or bracelet itself can frequently have an impact on size. Bracelet styles with a wider link design, such as Rolex’s Oyster Bracelet can sometimes seem larger on the wrist than a bracelet with a more delicate link design like the Jubilee. The two bracelets may have identical outer proportions, but the style of the individual links can influence the way that the bracelet wears on your wrist.

Once you get outside the realm of Rolex bracelets, straps can have an even larger impact on the overall wearing experience of your watch. A classic two-piece leather strap typically results in a watch wearing rather small (hence why it is the go-to option for dress watches with their elegant designs). However, something like a NATO strap will often cause a watch to wear larger due to the extra bulk of the fabric and the way it causes the watch to stand up further off your wrist.

Size of Every Rolex Watch (current models)

Over the years, Rolex has produced watches with a number of different case sizes. Additionally, certain watches like the Submariner and Explorer II have steadily grown in size over the years, as consumer preferences call for increasingly larger watches.

Below are all of the different collections of Rolex watches and the various case sizes that are currently available for each one:

Datejust  – 31mm; 36mm; 41mm

Date  – 34mm

Oyster Perpetual  – 28mm; 31mm; 34mm; 36mm; 41mm

Sky-Dweller  – 42mm

Day-Date  – 36mm; 40mm

Lady-Datejust  – 28mm

Pearlmaster  – 34mm; 39mm

Cellini  – 39mm

Submariner  – 41mm

Daytona  – 40mm

Sea-Dweller  – 43mm

Deepsea  – 44mm

GMT-Master II  – 40mm

Yacht-Master  – 37mm; 40mm; 42mm

Yacht-Master II  – 44mm

Explorer  – 39mm

Explorer II  – 42mm

Milgauss  – 40mm

Air-King  – 40mm

* Includes current-production models only

Rolex Sport Watch Sizes

The largest watches in Rolex’s catalog can be found among its various sports models. At the present time, the largest Rolex watches available are the Deepsea Sea-Dweller and the Yacht-Master II, both with official case diameter measurements of 44mm. Despite being built for very different purposes, both models are purpose-built tool watches designed from the ground up to thrive in specific environments.

Generally speaking, Rolex’s sports watches have sizes that range from 37mm to 44mm, although there are certain older models from the Explorer and Yacht-Master collections that can have cases that measure just under this range. The original Rolex Explorer had a case size of 36mm, and the Rolex Yacht-Master was previously offered in both 35mm and 29mm (Lady Yacht-Master) sizes, alongside the standard 40mm model. Below are some of the  used Rolex  models you might find in the current market.

Rolex GMT-Master II

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

Rolex Submariner

Rolex Sea-Dweller

Rolex Explorer II

Rolex Yacht-Master

Rolex dive watch sizes.

Dive watches are specifically designed for use while deep underwater. Consequently, visibility is key in the design of a dive watch, and most will have slightly larger case sizes relative to dress watches or casual models. With the exception of certain vintage Submariner watches from the 1950s that have cases slightly smaller than 40mm, the vast majority of all Rolex dive watches have case sizes that range from 40mm to 44mm.

As of 2020, the Submariner is the smallest Rolex dive watch with an official case-diameter of 41mm (the previous generation measured 40mm in diameter), while the Deepsea Sea-Dweller is the largest with a case size of 44m. The classic Sea-Dweller takes up the middle, offering a case size of 43mm; however, it should be noted that the case of the 43mm Sea-Dweller is quite a bit thinner than the case of the 44mm Deepsea, since it does not feature the same Ring Lock structure.

Rolex Mens Watch Sizes

The size of both men’s and women’s watches have steadily grown over the years. While the average size of a man’s watch during the 1950s was around 33mm to 35mm, most modern men’s Rolex watches have case diameters that range between 36mm and 42mm. With that in mind, there are certain Rolex watches for men , both modern and vintage, that feature case sizes both larger and smaller than this.

Historically, 36mm has been the go-to size for men’s Rolex watches, excluding the brand’s various sports models which often have cases larger than this due to their need to include additional features or functions. However, both the Rolex Date and Oyster Perpetual lines offer options with 34mm cases and these versatile models work well on most male wrists. Additionally, the Sea-Dweller, Deepsea, and Yacht-Master II all have either 43mm or 44mm case sizes, and while they are larger than the average men’s Rolex watch, they certainly fall into the men’s side of Rolex’s current catalog.

Rolex Sky-Dweller

Rolex Rolex Datejust II

Rolex Day-Date

Rolex Cellini

Rolex Milgauss

Rolex Air-King

Rolex unisex sizes (midsize).

Technically speaking, all Rolex watches are unisex watches. While the brand does have sections on its website specifically dedicated to men’s and women’s models, personal preference will always be the greatest determining factor, and any Rolex watch can be worn by any person as long as they enjoy wearing the watch. That being said, there are certain case sizes and collections of Rolex watches that offer more unisex options than others.

As a whole, Midsize Rolex watches are those that have case diameters that measure anywhere between 31mm and 37mm. Although 31mm Rolex watches are more often worn by women than men, and 36mm is the classic size for men’s Rolex watches, these are not firm rules, and these highly versatile case sizes can be effortlessly worn by both men and women.

The Rolex Date, Pearlmaster, and Oyster Perpetual all offer 34mm case size options, while the Datejust can be found with both 31mm and 36mm options. Since these case sizes are intended for both men and women, Rolex produces variations with a wide range of aesthetics, so that both men and women can both wear them. Additionally, at 37mm in diameter, the smallest Yacht-Master watch is also often considered a unisex Rolex watch, and it looks at home an an incredibly wide variety of different wrist sizes.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual

Rolex Datejust

Rolex Pearlmaster

Rolex Ladies Watch Sizes

Rolex has a long history of producing watches specifically for women, and just like the men’s models, Rolex’s ladies watches have steadily grown in size over the years. While some vintage Rolex women’s cocktail watches have tiny cases as small as 12mm, the classic size of the Lady-Datejust was 26mm. However, in more recent years, the case diameter of the Rolex Lady-Datejust has grown to 28mm and now features larger and thicker lugs for noticeably more presence on the wrist.

With that in mind, Rolex ladies watches are also available with cases both larger and smaller than this. You will find older Oyster Perpetual models with 24mm cases, alongside the Lady Yacht-Master with its 29mm case. Additionally, while many ladies Rolex watches have case diameters that are less than 30mm, there are numerous Rolex watches for women that have larger cases that range from 31mm to 36mm. Some of these models offer cases that are the exact same size as the men’s models, but the overall aesthetics of the watch in regards to the style of its dial, bezel, and color palette are entirely intended to appeal to a traditionally female audience.

Rolex Lady-Datejust

Rolex Lady-President

Rolex Lady Yacht-Master

Vintage Cocktail Watch

As of 2020, the smallest size of ladies watch that Rolex produces has a case diameter of 28mm. Both the Lady-Datejust and the smallest size from the Oyster Perpetual collection now have case diameters of 28mm; however 26mm was the classic size of the Lady-Datejust for many years, and until the 2020 update to the Oyster Perpetual collection, the smallest Rolex Oyster Perpetual watch had an official case diameter of 24mm.

About Bobs Watches Editorial

With over two decades of experience in the luxury watch industry, the Bob's Watches Editorial Team stands at the forefront of watch expertise and insight. Our team, composed of seasoned watch enthusiasts, skilled horologists, and knowledgeable industry insiders, is dedicated to bringing you the latest and most accurate information in the world of luxury timepieces. We pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail and our unwavering commitment to authenticity. Our editorial content is a reflection of our passion for luxury watches and our dedication to providing our readers with comprehensive, unbiased, and up-to-date information. Our expertise spans a wide range of topics, including in-depth reviews of the latest models, historical retrospectives of iconic timepieces, and insightful analyses of market trends. We are also renowned for our detailed guides on watch maintenance and investment advice, making us a trusted resource for both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts alike. As thought leaders in the watch industry, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve. That's why we continually update our knowledge and skills, ensuring that our readers receive the most current and relevant information. Whether you're seeking advice on your next luxury watch purchase or looking to deepen your understanding of watch craftsmanship, the Bob's Watches Editorial Team is here to guide you.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

.css-1obzumv{font-weight:700;font-size:clamp(1.875rem, 1.25rem + 1.5625vw, 3.125rem);line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:1rem;line-height:1.1;}.css-1obzumv:lang(th){line-height:1.5;} Yacht-Master 42 .css-18uwo57{font-size:clamp(1.125rem, 1.0625rem + 0.1563vw, 1.25rem);line-height:1.6;font-weight:300;line-height:1.2;text-wrap:balance;}.css-18uwo57 span{display:block;} Oyster, 42 mm, white gold Reference 226659

View in night mode

Discover in 360°

Staying on course

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42 in 18 ct white gold with a black dial and an Oysterflex bracelet.

The oysterflex bracelet, highly resistant and durable.

The Yacht-Master’s new Oysterflex bracelet, developed by Rolex and patented, offers a sporty alternative to metal bracelets. The bracelet attaches to the watch case and the Oysterlock safety clasp by a flexible titanium and nickel alloy metal blade.

The blade is overmoulded with high-performance black elastomer which is particularly resistant to environmental effects, very durable and perfectly inert for the wearer of the watch. For enhanced comfort, the inside of the Oysterflex bracelet is equipped with a patented longitudinal cushion system that stabilizes the watch on the wrist and fitted with an 18 ct white gold Oysterlock safety clasp. It also features the Rolex Glidelock extension system, designed by the brand and patented. This inventive toothed mechanism, integrated beneath the clasp, allows fine adjustment of the bracelet length by some 15 mm in increments of approximately 2.5 mm, without the use of tools.

18 ct white gold

Commitment to excellence

By operating its own exclusive foundry, Rolex has the unrivalled ability to cast the highest quality 18 ct gold alloys. According to the proportion of silver, copper, platinum or palladium added, different types of 18 ct gold are obtained: yellow, pink or white.

They are made with only the purest metals and meticulously inspected in an in-house laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment, before the gold is formed and shaped with the same painstaking attention to quality. Rolex's commitment to excellence begins at the source.

Bidirectional Rotatable Bezel

Timing the distance.

The Yacht-Master’s bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel is made entirely from precious metals or fitted with a Cerachrom insert in high-tech ceramic. The raised polished numerals and graduations stand out clearly against a matt, sand-blasted background.

This functional bezel – which allows the wearer to calculate, for example, the sailing time between two buoys – is also a key component in the model’s distinctive visual identity.

Exceptional legibility

Like all Rolex Professional watches, the Yacht-Master 42 offers exceptional legibility in all circumstances, and especially in the dark, thanks to its Chromalight display.

The broad hands and hour markers in simple shapes – triangles, circles, rectangles – are filled with a luminescent material emitting a long-lasting glow.

More Yacht-Master technical details

Reference   226659

Model case .css-1tg8aam{--iconSize:12px;--iconStrokeWidth:2px;height:var(--iconSize);position:relative;width:var(--iconSize);}.css-1tg8aam::before,.css-1tg8aam::after{background:currentColor;content:"";display:block;height:var(--iconStrokeWidth);left:0;position:absolute;right:0;top:50%;-webkit-transition:-webkit-transform 0.6s;transition:transform 0.6s;will-change:transform;}@media (prefers-reduced-motion){.css-1tg8aam::before,.css-1tg8aam::after{-webkit-transition:none;transition:none;}}.css-160voq8 .css-1tg8aam::after{-webkit-transform:rotate(90deg);-moz-transform:rotate(90deg);-ms-transform:rotate(90deg);transform:rotate(90deg);}.no-js .css-1tg8aam{display:none;}

Oyster, 42 mm, white gold

Oyster architecture

Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

Bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel with matt black Cerachrom insert in ceramic, polished raised numerals and graduations

Winding crown

Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system

Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date

Water resistance

Waterproof to 100 metres / 330 feet

Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding

3235, Manufacture Rolex

-2/+2 sec/day, after casing

Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting

Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers

Bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor

Power reserve

Approximately 70 hours

Flexible metal blades overmoulded with high-performance elastomer

Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system

Highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence

Certification

Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing)

Learn how to set the time and other functions of your Rolex watch by consulting our user guides.

Yacht-Master 42

Contact an Official Rolex Retailer

Only official Rolex retailers are allowed to sell and maintain a Rolex watch. With the necessary skills, technical know-how and special equipment, they guarantee the authenticity of each and every part of your Rolex and help you make the choice that will last a lifetime.

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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The Comprehensive Guide to Moscow Nightlife

• Posted on April 14, 2018 July 26, 2018
• by Kings of Russia
• 8 minute read

Moscow’s nightlife scene is thriving, and arguably one of the best the world has to offer – top-notch Russian women, coupled with a never-ending list of venues, Moscow has a little bit of something for everyone’s taste. Moscow nightlife is not for the faint of heart – and if you’re coming, you better be ready to go Friday and Saturday night into the early morning.

This comprehensive guide to Moscow nightlife will run you through the nuts and bolts of all you need to know about Moscow’s nightclubs and give you a solid blueprint to operate with during your time in Moscow.

What you need to know before hitting Moscow nightclubs

Prices in moscow nightlife.

Before you head out and start gaming all the sexy Moscow girls , we have to talk money first. Bring plenty because in Moscow you can never bring a big enough bankroll. Remember, you’re the man so making a fuzz of not paying a drink here or there will not go down well.

Luckily most Moscow clubs don’t do cover fees. Some electro clubs will charge 15-20$, depending on their lineup. There’s the odd club with a minimum spend of 20-30$, which you’ll drop on drinks easily. By and large, you can scope out the venues for free, which is a big plus.

Bottle service is a great deal in Moscow. At top-tier clubs, it starts at 1,000$. That’ll go a long way with premium vodka at 250$, especially if you have three or four guys chipping in. Not to mention that it’s a massive status boost for getting girls, especially at high-end clubs.

Without bottle service, you should estimate a budget of 100-150$ per night. That is if you drink a lot and hit the top clubs with the hottest girls. Scale down for less alcohol and more basic places.

Dress code & Face control

Door policy in Moscow is called “face control” and it’s always the guy behind the two gorillas that gives the green light if you’re in or out.

In Moscow nightlife there’s only one rule when it comes to dress codes:

You can never be underdressed.

People dress A LOT sharper than, say, in the US and that goes for both sexes. For high-end clubs, you definitely want to roll with a sharp blazer and a pocket square, not to mention dress shoes in tip-top condition. Those are the minimum requirements to level the playing field vis a vis with other sharply dressed guys that have a lot more money than you do. Unless you plan to hit explicit electro or underground clubs, which have their own dress code, you are always on the money with that style.

Getting in a Moscow club isn’t as hard as it seems: dress sharp, speak English at the door and look like you’re in the mood to spend all that money that you supposedly have (even if you don’t). That will open almost any door in Moscow’s nightlife for you.

Types of Moscow Nightclubs

In Moscow there are four types of clubs with the accompanying female clientele:

High-end clubs:

These are often crossovers between restaurants and clubs with lots of tables and very little space to dance. Heavy accent on bottle service most of the time but you can work the room from the bar as well. The hottest and most expensive girls in Moscow go there. Bring deep pockets and lots of self-confidence and you have a shot at swooping them.

Regular Mid-level clubs:

They probably resemble more what you’re used to in a nightclub: big dancefloors, stages and more space to roam around. Bottle service will make you stand out more but you can also do well without. You can find all types of girls but most will be in the 6-8 range. Your targets should always be the girls drinking and ideally in pairs. It’s impossible not to swoop if your game is at least half-decent.

Basic clubs/dive bars:

Usually spots with very cheap booze and lax face control. If you’re dressed too sharp and speak no Russian, you might attract the wrong type of attention so be vigilant. If you know the local scene you can swoop 6s and 7s almost at will. Usually students and girls from the suburbs.

Electro/underground clubs:

Home of the hipsters and creatives. Parties there don’t mean meeting girls and getting drunk but doing pills and spacing out to the music. Lots of attractive hipster girls if that is your niche. That is its own scene with a different dress code as well.

What time to go out in Moscow

Moscow nightlife starts late. Don’t show up at bars and preparty spots before 11pm because you’ll feel fairly alone. Peak time is between 1am and 3am. That is also the time of Moscow nightlife’s biggest nuisance: concerts by artists you won’t know and who only distract your girls from drinking and being gamed. From 4am to 6am the regular clubs are emptying out but plenty of people, women included, still hit up one of the many afterparty clubs. Those last till well past 10am.

As far as days go: Fridays and Saturdays are peak days. Thursday is an OK day, all other days are fairly weak and you have to know the right venues.

The Ultimate Moscow Nightclub List

Short disclaimer: I didn’t add basic and electro clubs since you’re coming for the girls, not for the music. This list will give you more options than you’ll be able to handle on a weekend.

Preparty – start here at 11PM

Classic restaurant club with lots of tables and a smallish bar and dancefloor. Come here between 11pm and 12am when the concert is over and they start with the actual party. Even early in the night tons of sexy women here, who lean slightly older (25 and up).

The second floor of the Ugolek restaurant is an extra bar with dim lights and house music tunes. Very small and cozy with a slight hipster vibe but generally draws plenty of attractive women too. A bit slower vibe than Valenok.

Very cool, spread-out venue that has a modern library theme. Not always full with people but when it is, it’s brimming with top-tier women. Slow vibe here and better for grabbing contacts and moving on.

High-end: err on the side of being too early rather than too late because of face control.

Secret Room

Probably the top venue at the moment in Moscow . Very small but wildly popular club, which is crammed with tables but always packed. They do parties on Thursdays and Sundays as well. This club has a hip-hop/high-end theme, meaning most girls are gold diggers, IG models, and tattooed hip hop chicks. Very unfavorable logistics because there is almost no room no move inside the club but the party vibe makes it worth it. Strict face control.

Close to Secret Room and with a much more favorable and spacious three-part layout. This place attracts very hot women but also lots of ball busters and fakes that will leave you blue-balled. Come early because after 4am it starts getting empty fast. Electronic music.

A slightly kitsch restaurant club that plays Russian pop and is full of gold diggers, semi-pros, and men from the Caucasus republics. Thursday is the strongest night but that dynamic might be changing since Secret Room opened its doors. You can swoop here but it will be a struggle.

Mid-level: your sweet spot in terms of ease and attractiveness of girls for an average budget.

Started going downwards in 2018 due to lax face control and this might get even worse with the World Cup. In terms of layout one of the best Moscow nightclubs because it’s very big and bottle service gives you a good edge here. Still attracts lots of cute girls with loose morals but plenty of provincial girls (and guys) as well. Swooping is fairly easy here.

I haven’t been at this place in over a year, ever since it started becoming ground zero for drunken teenagers. Similar clientele to Icon but less chic, younger and drunker. Decent mainstream music that attracts plenty of tourists. Girls are easy here as well.

Sort of a Coyote Ugly (the real one in Moscow sucks) with party music and lots of drunken people licking each others’ faces. Very entertaining with the right amount of alcohol and very easy to pull in there. Don’t think about staying sober in here, you’ll hate it.

Artel Bessonitsa/Shakti Terrace

Electronic music club that is sort of a high-end place with an underground clientele and located between the teenager clubs Icon and Gipsy. Very good music but a bit all over the place with their vibe and their branding. You can swoop almost any type of girl here from high-heeled beauty to coked-up hipsters, provided they’re not too sober.

Afterparty: if by 5AM  you haven’t pulled, it’s time to move here.

Best afterparty spot in terms of trying to get girls. Pretty much no one is sober in there and savage gorilla game goes a long way. Lots of very hot and slutty-looking girls but it can be hard to tell apart who is looking for dick and who is just on drugs but not interested. If by 9-10am you haven’t pulled, it is probably better to surrender.

The hipster alternative for afterparties, where even more drugs are in play. Plenty of attractive girls there but you have to know how to work this type of club. A nicer atmosphere and better music but if you’re desperate to pull, you’ll probably go to Miks.

Weekday jokers: if you’re on the hunt for some sexy Russian girls during the week, here are two tips to make your life easier.

Chesterfield

Ladies night on Wednesdays means this place gets pretty packed with smashed teenagers and 6s and 7s. Don’t pull out the three-piece suit in here because it’s a “simpler” crowd. Definitely your best shot on Wednesdays.

If you haven’t pulled at Chesterfield, you can throw a Hail Mary and hit up Garage’s Black Music Wednesdays. Fills up really late but there are some cute Black Music groupies in here. Very small club. Thursday through Saturday they do afterparties and you have an excellent shot and swooping girls that are probably high.

Shishas Sferum

This is pretty much your only shot on Mondays and Tuesdays because they offer free or almost free drinks for women. A fairly low-class club where you should watch your drinks. As always the case in Moscow, there will be cute girls here on any day of the week but it’s nowhere near as good as on the weekend.

In a nutshell, that is all you need to know about where to meet Moscow girls in nightlife. There are tons of options, and it all depends on what best fits your style, based on the type of girls that you’re looking for.

Related Topics

• moscow girls
• moscow nightlife

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Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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