Another Friday - another list. This week we dive into the world of regatta timers.
The main novelty from Rolex at Watches and Wonders this year was the updated Yacht-Master II. This revamped chronometer is a significant improvement over the previous generation regatta timer from The Crown. Both in terms of usability and design, the new Yacht-Master II looks much more appealing than its predecessor. However, claiming that this model has become the hit everyone was eagerly awaiting would be inaccurate. It's a niche product for a narrow audience. So the question arises: are there worthy alternatives to this outstanding Rolex? Let's find out.
Features of Regatta Timers and Their Rarity
As many know, regatta timers are rare specimens in the watch world. Some brands have a maritime heritage and continue to produce mechanical watches with countdowns for sailing races, but today they are much less common than in the 1960s-70s. Nevertheless, we have managed to compile a selection of alternatives to the Rolex Yacht-Master II. It's important to understand that this is more about the unique character of these watches than a replacement at a similar price. This list is based solely on the context of sailing regattas. So, let's look at the top five options.
Omega Seamaster Regatta
Omega is known for its Seamaster Regatta models. The latest version was introduced in 2024 at the 37th America's Cup, coinciding with Omega's partnership with the event. The watch features a combined analog-digital display and belongs to the tool watch category, like the Speedmaster X-33. The Seamaster Regatta case is made of grade 5 titanium with a diameter of 46.75 mm, a thickness of 15.6 mm, and a lug-to-lug length of 50 mm. Thanks to the lightweight material, the watch feels much lighter than its size suggests.
The sides of the case are equipped with four buttons and a crown for managing functions. These include a programmable regatta timer that allows setting the exact start time of the race with a countdown. Additionally, the watch has a standard chronograph, a moon phase indicator, a sailing race log, a thermometer, an accelerometer, three alarms, and, of course, time display.
All these functions are powered by the Omega 5701 caliber - a thermo-compensated multifunctional quartz movement with a battery life of 31 months and an accuracy of ±7 seconds per year. The three alarms are loud thanks to the resonator on the case back. This Seamaster Regatta model costs €8,200 and is a modern competitor to the Rolex Yacht-Master II.
TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Skipper
The next model is the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Skipper. This is a modern version of the classic Skipper from 1968, which became a sought-after collectible. The Carrera Chronograph Skipper is available in stainless steel and rose gold cases. The case dimensions are 39 × 46 mm with a thickness of 13.9 mm, including the characteristic domed sapphire Glassbox, giving the watch a special style.
The dial is painted in blue with a unique color scheme and layout, differing from regular Carrera Chronograph models. The 9 o'clock counter is in sea foam color, and the regatta counter at 3 o'clock repeats the tricolor five-minute segments of the 60s original. The central seconds hand is bright orange, and the 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock has been changed to a 15-minute one to meet regatta requirements. The other functions remain unchanged: a 12-hour counter at 9 o'clock, running seconds, and a date at 6 o'clock.
The model is equipped with the proprietary TAG Heuer TH20-06 caliber - an automatic chronograph with 33 jewels, a frequency of 28,000 vph, and a power reserve of 80 hours. This movement is perfectly suited for the vibrant Carrera Chronograph Skipper, which visually surpasses many competitors. Priced at €7,500, the watch is significantly more accessible than the Rolex Yacht-Master II (€19,850).
Albishorn Marinagraph
Albishorn is a young brand specializing in watches with the concept of "imaginary vintage." After applying this idea in aviation (Type 10 Classic) and mountaineering (Thundergraph Himalaya), the brand introduced the Marinagraph last year. This stylish regatta timer is the brand's take on yacht watches from the late 1950s. Although it's not Albishorn's first regatta timer - their first collaboration with Massena Lab was also a maritime chronograph inspired by the 1930s.
The Marinagraph is available in two dial versions: Classic Racing with a black dial and Paraíba Racing with a sunburst turquoise. The case diameter is 41 mm, with a thickness of 13 mm. The steel mid-case is 39 mm wide, but the domed bezel increases the overall width. Functionally, the watch is a regatta timer, but the special bezel combined with the central hour hand allows tracking tides - a useful and unusual feature for this model.
The left side of the case features the brand's signature red anodized chronograph button at 9 o'clock, and at the top at 10 o'clock is a screw-down crown, creating a unique visual accent. The dial shows hours and minutes in the center, a running indicator at 3 o'clock, and a 10-minute regatta timer at the bottom, stopping when it reaches zero.
Features of the Albishorn ALB01 A Movement
Under the engraved case back lies the in-house Albishorn ALB01 A caliber. It is based on the legendary Valjoux 7750 but significantly thinner. The movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vph and has a power reserve of 64 hours. The developer is Sebastien Chomontet - one of the brand's founders along with Fabien Collu. Chomontet is also responsible for marketing and innovations at Sellita, allowing Albishorn to create such conceptual watches without significant production costs.
The brand will release 99 pieces of each Marinagraph variant at a price of CHF 3,950 (excluding taxes). Both versions come with two straps. The main value of the Albishorn Marinagraph is its unique design, unlike anything else on the market, and high functionality.
Tissot Sideral
The next model is the modern version of the legendary Tissot Sideral S. Technically, the watch differs from previous variants: instead of a chronograph with a countdown, the dial features a regatta counter. Additionally, there is a unidirectional 60-minute diving bezel, distinguishing this model in the list. All three versions replicate the design of the classic Sideral S from the 1970s with a fiberglass case.
For the new series, Tissot used a forged carbon fiber case with a diameter of 41 mm, a thickness of 14.5 mm, and a lug-to-lug length of 46.5 mm. Despite the size, thanks to the lightweight material and rubber strap without a traditional clasp, the total weight is only 90 grams.
Technical Specifications and Strap Design of Tissot
The carbon case surrounds a steel core for strength. The bezel is made of steel with a PVD coating and has a luminescent scale for diving. The screw-down crown on the right side ensures water resistance up to 300 meters, making the watch suitable for diving. Available in yellow, red, and blue options, all with a regatta counter in a green-red color scheme and a date window at 3 o'clock.
The watch is equipped with the automatic Powermatic 80 caliber from Swatch Group with 23 jewels, a frequency of 21,600 vph, and a power reserve of 80 hours. The unique feature is the perforated rubber straps with a quick-release system, making strap changes easy. Priced at €1,095, the Tissot Sideral is a great bright summer option.
Yema Yachtingraf Croisière Meca-Quartz
The last on the list is the Yema Yachtingraf Croisière Meca-Quartz. The French brand released two versions of this affordable regatta timer in 2024: a stylish white-turquoise and a blue with red accents. The stainless steel case measures 38.5 × 46 mm with a thickness of 13.3 mm. The double-domed Hesalite crystal adds 3 mm to the thickness and gives a vintage charm.
The triple counter on the dial includes a large regatta timer at 9 o'clock, running seconds at 6, and a 24-hour indicator at 3 o'clock. Differences in size and design make the regatta timer the focal point - a visual trick highlighting its primary function.
Seiko VK63 Movement
The watch runs on the Seiko VK63 quartz movement with a mechanical chronograph - a popular solution for reducing costs while maintaining the feel of a mechanical chronograph. The start, stop, and reset of the yellow hand are accompanied by pleasing clicks, and when running, the hand moves smoothly across the dial.
Completing the look is a mesh steel bracelet that fits perfectly into the classic style. If you're looking for an affordable regatta timer, the Yema Yachtingraf Croisière Meca-Quartz is an excellent choice. Unfortunately, the blue version is already sold out, but the white-turquoise is available for €369 and is perfect for summer sea outings.
Conclusion: Five Best Alternatives to Rolex Yacht-Master II
So, we've reviewed five alternatives to the Rolex Yacht-Master II. As we can see, the models vary significantly in price but are united by the functionality of a regatta timer. Of course, there are other worthy options, but they are not as numerous. Which of these five models do you like best? Or will you still choose the Rolex Yacht-Master II? Share your opinion in the comments, and we'll see you with a new list next week!