Rolex Yachtmaster 16623 Slate Dial

$12,775.00

Overview

For sale is a 2015 Rolex Yacht‑Master, reference 16623, a distinctive and highly collectible version of Rolex’s nautical-inspired sports watch. This piece is notable as one of the final five‑digit references produced before Rolex fully transitioned to six‑digit models—making it an especially interesting find for collectors. It also features the engraved “ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX” rehaut, a late‑production detail rarely seen on five‑digit watches. The watch is in good used condition, showing light hairlines on the bracelet and clasp, consistent with careful wear. It comes with the original Rolex warranty card and inner presentation box.

Key Features

  • Model: Rolex Yacht‑Master 40

  • Reference: 16623

  • Year: 2015

  • Case Size: 40 mm

  • Case Material: Stainless steel and 18 kt yellow gold (Rolesor)

  • Bezel: Solid 18 kt yellow‑gold rotating bezel with embossed numerals

  • Dial: Champagne sunburst (other configurations available) with applied luminous hour markers in 18 k gold surrounds

  • Crystal: Sapphire crystal with Cyclops magnification over the date

  • Bracelet: Two‑tone Oyster bracelet (steel and 18 kt gold center links)

  • Clasp: Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink extension

  • Movement: Rolex Caliber 3135 automatic chronometer, 48‑hour power reserve

  • Water Resistance: 100 meters / 330 feet

  • Condition: Good pre‑owned—light hairlines on bracelet and clasp only, case strong with intact proportions

  • Included: Rolex inner box and original warranty card

Detailed Description

The Rolex Yacht‑Master 16623 occupies a special place in the brand’s catalog as the first true luxury evolution of the Submariner’s design. Introduced in 1999 and produced until around 2016, this two‑tone Rolesor variant blends stainless steel durability with the richness of 18 kt yellow gold.

Its 40 mm case gives the watch substantial presence without sacrificing comfort, while the solid‑gold bidirectional timing bezel features raised, polished numerals contrasting against a frosted background—a hallmark design cue unique to the Yacht‑Master. The engraved rehaut on this late‑production 2015 example is an especially rare detail for a five‑digit reference, marking Rolex’s transitional period before the next generation’s 116622/116621 releases.

The sunburst slate dial plays beautifully with light and pairs perfectly with the gold bezel and center links. Large luminous hour markers and Mercedes hands ensure legibility, and the date window at 3 o’clock provides everyday practicality. Powering the watch is Rolex’s trusted Caliber 3135, known for its precision, durability, and ease of service—one of the longest‑running and most reliable movements Rolex ever produced.

Historical Significance

The Yacht‑Master collection debuted in 1992 as a more luxurious alternative to the Submariner, designed for style and comfort both on and off the water. The 16623 represents the mature evolution of that idea: the perfect blend of classic sport styling and precious‑metal refinement.

The 2015 production year with engraved rehaut makes this reference especially noteworthy among collectors, as Rolex phased in rehaut engraving across models around this transitional period. Examples like this offer the charm of older‑style proportions with a subtle nod to the modern Rolex aesthetic.

Condition and Inclusions

This watch remains in good overall condition, showing honest light wear from use:

  • Light hairlines visible on bracelet and clasp under direct light

  • Gold and steel Oyster case retains strong edges and sheen

  • Sapphire crystal and Cyclops magnifier are clean and clear

  • Movement is running accurately within chronometer specifications

Included in the sale:

  • Original Rolex inner box

  • Rolex international warranty card (dated 2015)

Summary

This 2015 Rolex Yacht‑Master 16623 is a distinctive Rolesor model that bridges Rolex’s vintage and modern periods, pairing traditional styling with modern technical upgrades like the engraved rehaut. With its reliable Caliber 3135, versatile 40 mm case, and striking gold‑and‑steel aesthetic, it transitions effortlessly from yacht deck to boardroom.

A well‑kept example with warranty card and box—ready to wear, collect, or appreciate as one of the last and rarest five‑digit Yacht‑Masters produced.

Overview

For sale is a 2015 Rolex Yacht‑Master, reference 16623, a distinctive and highly collectible version of Rolex’s nautical-inspired sports watch. This piece is notable as one of the final five‑digit references produced before Rolex fully transitioned to six‑digit models—making it an especially interesting find for collectors. It also features the engraved “ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX” rehaut, a late‑production detail rarely seen on five‑digit watches. The watch is in good used condition, showing light hairlines on the bracelet and clasp, consistent with careful wear. It comes with the original Rolex warranty card and inner presentation box.

Key Features

  • Model: Rolex Yacht‑Master 40

  • Reference: 16623

  • Year: 2015

  • Case Size: 40 mm

  • Case Material: Stainless steel and 18 kt yellow gold (Rolesor)

  • Bezel: Solid 18 kt yellow‑gold rotating bezel with embossed numerals

  • Dial: Champagne sunburst (other configurations available) with applied luminous hour markers in 18 k gold surrounds

  • Crystal: Sapphire crystal with Cyclops magnification over the date

  • Bracelet: Two‑tone Oyster bracelet (steel and 18 kt gold center links)

  • Clasp: Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink extension

  • Movement: Rolex Caliber 3135 automatic chronometer, 48‑hour power reserve

  • Water Resistance: 100 meters / 330 feet

  • Condition: Good pre‑owned—light hairlines on bracelet and clasp only, case strong with intact proportions

  • Included: Rolex inner box and original warranty card

Detailed Description

The Rolex Yacht‑Master 16623 occupies a special place in the brand’s catalog as the first true luxury evolution of the Submariner’s design. Introduced in 1999 and produced until around 2016, this two‑tone Rolesor variant blends stainless steel durability with the richness of 18 kt yellow gold.

Its 40 mm case gives the watch substantial presence without sacrificing comfort, while the solid‑gold bidirectional timing bezel features raised, polished numerals contrasting against a frosted background—a hallmark design cue unique to the Yacht‑Master. The engraved rehaut on this late‑production 2015 example is an especially rare detail for a five‑digit reference, marking Rolex’s transitional period before the next generation’s 116622/116621 releases.

The sunburst slate dial plays beautifully with light and pairs perfectly with the gold bezel and center links. Large luminous hour markers and Mercedes hands ensure legibility, and the date window at 3 o’clock provides everyday practicality. Powering the watch is Rolex’s trusted Caliber 3135, known for its precision, durability, and ease of service—one of the longest‑running and most reliable movements Rolex ever produced.

Historical Significance

The Yacht‑Master collection debuted in 1992 as a more luxurious alternative to the Submariner, designed for style and comfort both on and off the water. The 16623 represents the mature evolution of that idea: the perfect blend of classic sport styling and precious‑metal refinement.

The 2015 production year with engraved rehaut makes this reference especially noteworthy among collectors, as Rolex phased in rehaut engraving across models around this transitional period. Examples like this offer the charm of older‑style proportions with a subtle nod to the modern Rolex aesthetic.

Condition and Inclusions

This watch remains in good overall condition, showing honest light wear from use:

  • Light hairlines visible on bracelet and clasp under direct light

  • Gold and steel Oyster case retains strong edges and sheen

  • Sapphire crystal and Cyclops magnifier are clean and clear

  • Movement is running accurately within chronometer specifications

Included in the sale:

  • Original Rolex inner box

  • Rolex international warranty card (dated 2015)

Summary

This 2015 Rolex Yacht‑Master 16623 is a distinctive Rolesor model that bridges Rolex’s vintage and modern periods, pairing traditional styling with modern technical upgrades like the engraved rehaut. With its reliable Caliber 3135, versatile 40 mm case, and striking gold‑and‑steel aesthetic, it transitions effortlessly from yacht deck to boardroom.

A well‑kept example with warranty card and box—ready to wear, collect, or appreciate as one of the last and rarest five‑digit Yacht‑Masters produced.