More than just a tool watch, the Rolex GMT Master II is an iconic piece that features modern technologies while staying true to its core design. Here is why the GMT Master II should be in every avid watch enthusiasts’ collection.
History of the GMT Master II
The Rolex GMT Master II is an evolution of the original GMT Master, first produced in 1955 with reference to the 6542 model. The Rolex GMT Master was developed in cooperation with Pan American World Airways (Pan Am Airlines) to help pilots and flying enthusiasts tell the time through multiple time zones over long flights. The watch featured a bidirectional 24-hour bezel with a 24-hour arrow-tipped hand on the dial, allowing wearers to easily read both home and local time simultaneously.
The Rolex GMT Master II was an improvement to the original GMT master series. Produced in 1999, it honours its predecessor’s core aesthetics while incorporating modern design elements like a sapphire crystal and red and black bezel inserts.
Other than design changes, the Rolex GMT Master II introduced new features such as adjustable hour hands that allow wearers to adjust the 12-hour hand independently from the 24-hour hand. The watch is capable of displaying two different timezones with the dial, with the bezel being able to display a third.
Over the year, Rolex has been refining the GMT Master II to feature a sleeker case design and higher beat movement. The bezel has been upgraded up a tough and proprietary ceramic material is that both scratch and UV fade resistant. Luminous markers are also added to the dial face which glows a brilliant blue in the dark while appearing a crisp white in daylight.
Notable Features of the Rolex GMT Master II
Case Size: 40 mm
Materials: Oyster steel, Everose Gold, White Gold
Features: GMT function, time with running seconds, date display
Dial: Black with luminous hour markers, Blue or Meteorite (White Gold model only)
Movement: Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding
Bezel: Bidirectional rotatable 24-hour graduated bezel
Water Resistance: up to 100 meters
Bracelet Strap: Oyster bracelet, Jubilee bracelet (gold and two tones)
Rolex GMT Master II Model Variations
Rolex GMT Master II – 126710BLNR
This GMT Master II model is made with an oystersteel watch case. Oystersteel is an alloy commonly used in high-technology and in aerospace and chemical industries. The sleek stainless steel watch face is extremely durable and resistant to scratches, ensuring that the polished surface maintains its beauty in even the harshest of environments.
The Rolex GMT Master II 126710 is priced at SGD 14, 540.
Rolex GMT Master II – 126719BLRO
The only GMT Master II model with a meteorite dial. Under light, the watch face produces unique metallic patterns as a result of the slow cooling of molten asteroid cores. Like its discontinued predecessor, the 116719, the GMT Master II has alternative midnight blue and solid black dial looks available. A stylish red and blue bezel accompanies the solid white gold watch as well, completing the striking look.
The Rolex GMT Master II 126719 is priced at SGD 57,550.
Rolex GMT Master II – 126715CHNR
Created with an exclusive 18k rose gold alloy (Everose gold) material, the GMT Master II model is a luxury timepiece that completes any sophisticated look. It favours warm tones and is paired with a satin-finished rose gold case with a two-colour bronze and black Cerachrom rotatable bezel.
The Rolex GMT Master II 126715 is priced at SGD 54,340.