It's an interesting watch. While I own watches larger than 42mm, I'm not a big fan of Rolex's over 41mm, and the 42mm YM just doesn't have the poise and balance of it's 40mm brethren. I also think it was a miss for Rolex to go with Ti on the YM, instead of the Sub, where it makes more sense.What’s your opinion on the new Titanium Yachtmaster that came out 2023?
Ultimately what ruins it for me though, is the $. $14K for a titanium YM is a whopping 40% premium over the Sub, which is not justifiable - especially since Titanium scratches easier than steel, and that watch is going to show a lot of wear on the band/clasp. Rolex also makes another 42mm Titanium watch with a ceramic bezel under their Tudor line called the Pelagos for only $5K and it comes with a rubber strap as well. So 40% premium over the Sub, and a near 3X premium over the Pelagos just doesn't make any sense to me - I can't rationalize it.
The world of watches is weird - $14K can be both a fortune for a watch, and mere pocket change, but one cannot deny that if you're willing to part with $14k for a wrist watch, you have a ton of exceptional watches, especially on the pre-owned market. If I was dropping $14K, it certainly wouldn't be on that titanium YM. I'd rather have:
1. A Rolex Sub + a Grand Seiko or ultra-high end Citizen dress watch (I actually think the ultra-high end Citizens are nicer than the GS' in every subjective and objective manner)
2. A solid gold pre-owned simple three hand dress watch from Chopard, VC, Rolex, etc for around $8-10K, and then the $5K Pelagos.
3. A Casio MR-G (digital or Analog) plus a pre-owned solid gold dress watch. Of the three options, this one would be my preference.