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Model #16700 $15,170.00 (16% off)$18,052.001991 -
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The Pilot's Watch Legacy
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master, introduced in 1955, marked a milestone in the brand's partnership with Pan American Airways. It was designed specifically to accommodate international pilots who had to navigate multiple time zones simultaneously during transcontinental flights. The collection that grew to be known as the Rolex GMT-Master was a natural extension of the Rolex company, producing the revolutionary dual-timepiece complication with its signature rotating 24-hour bezel.
One of the most significant differences between the Rolex GMT-Master and other models is that it was innovative in introducing a dual time zone feature, intended for use in professional aviation. Whereas most single-time zone sport watches, such as the Submariner and Explorer, have a 12-hour rotating bezel, Rolex GMT-Master watches have a 24-hour rotating bezel and a second GMT hand, which tracks a second time zone. In addition, the iconic color-coded bezels, such as the popular Pepsi (red/blue) and Coke (red/black) designs, were also created with this collection in mind, and they remain the signature design elements of the collection.
Current GMT-Master Collection Highlights
The Rolex GMT-Master watches are a worldwide phenomenon, worn by pilots, international travelers, and serious collectors. Over the nearly 70 years of its existence, this line has enjoyed a reputation as the ultimate piloting watch, boasting useful dual time zone features. The Rolex GMT-Master is a series designed to meet the needs of international businessmen and aviation enthusiasts.
By Generation and Configuration
The old Rolex GMT-Master is the oldest generation. The Classic GMT-Master (references 1675, 6542) features an acrylic crystal and aluminum bezel that measure the perfect size to fit wrists of 6.5-7.5 inches. These sources, 1955-1980, formed the heritage of aviation and iconic language of design in the collection.
The Rolex GMT-Master sits between old and new, with transitional models including the Rolex GMT-Master (reference 16750, 16760, 16700). These watches from 1980-1999 featured quick-set date functions, sapphire crystals, and improved movements, without altering the aesthetics of the bezel (aluminum), which many loved the most. The Rolex GMT-Master 16700 is the last GMT-Master of its type before the entire range of the watch began to be identified as the GMT-Master II.
The 40mm diameter case is a consistent feature in all Rolex GMT-Master models. The Rolex steel GMT-Master is extremely popular among collectors and represents a kind of attainable luxury. For a more classic look, the Rolex GMT-Master Pepsi, featuring a red and blue aluminum bezel, boasts one of the most iconic color combinations. Next, there is the Coke bezel model, featuring red and black aluminum, which lends it an old-school feel with a subtle touch of differentiation. The Rolex GMT-Master 1675 vintage models are the most collectible, featuring gilt dials and representing the purest form of an aviation watch.
Technical Specifications
|
Feature |
Vintage GMT-Master |
Transitional GMT-Master |
|
References |
1675, 6542 |
16750, 16760, 16700 |
|
Case Diameter |
40mm |
40mm |
|
Movement |
Calibre 1565/1575 |
Calibre 3075/3175 |
|
Water Resistance |
100m (330ft) |
100m (330ft) |
|
Bracelet |
Oyster, Jubilee |
Oyster, Jubilee |
|
Materials |
Stainless steel |
Stainless steel |
|
Bezel Material |
Aluminum |
Aluminum |
|
Crystal |
Acrylic |
Sapphire |
|
Ideal Wrist |
6.5-7.5 inches |
6.5-7.5 inches |
Investment & Value
Rolex GMT-Master watches make exceptional investment opportunities as they appreciate significantly. Here are some of the references for investment:
Rolex GMT-Master Models with Strongest Appreciation:
- Oyster 1675 GMF vintage Rolex, with an original gilt dial and Pepsi bezel.
- Transitional Rolex GMT-Master 16700 "Pepsi" (last aluminum bezel GMT-Master)
- Early with a Bakelite bezel (very rare) 6542.
- All-inclusive samples with identical papers and boxes.
- Raw cases, well-beveled, and patina.
Best Value Strategy: In Master Luxury, you would find pre-owned Rolex GMT-Master watches at great prices. Our old stock inventory presents the best investment prospects. We offer:
- Original old vintage calibre movements with certified service history. The below market pricing of collectible references.
- Excellent certified works in good condition.
- Extensive warranty coverage.
Discontinued production also makes the Rolex GMT-Master exceptionally stable in price and appreciating, as it enjoys the authentic scarcity of discontinued production, the aviation heritage among dedicated enthusiasts, and premiums for aluminum bezel models over current ceramic ones. The Rolex GMT-Master 1675 and 16700 Pepsi models exhibit the most appreciable trend among all vintage sport models from Rolex.
Master Luxury Advantage
Any used Rolex GMT-Master listed on our site has been thoroughly authenticated and verified. We also ensure that we authenticate the watches in the same manner as the WOSTEP protocol does. With each watch you get:
- Complete warranty of all certified pre-owned models.
- Rolex GMT-Master competitive pricing.
- Consultation with experts regarding reference and bezel choice.
- Global shipping with full tracking.
- Detailed provenance records.
- Viable Rolex GMT-Master price on all configurations.
FAQs
What makes the Rolex GMT-Master a collectible watch?
The Rolex GMT-Master watches have acquired legendary collectible status due to their aviation heritage, which can be traced back to the 1955 collaboration with Pan Am. The limited production of the watch makes it a finite collectible. Additionally, the aluminum Rolex Pepsi and Coke bezels give the watches a vintage design. The Rolex GMT-Master is considered one of the most significant vintage Rolex collections, whose references have increased in value over time at a remarkably high rate.
GMT-Master vs. GMT-Master II: What is the difference?
The original Rolex GMT-Master features a two-way rotating bezel, allowing it to track two time zones simultaneously. In time setting, the GMT hand moves in the same direction as the hour hand. The GMT-Master II (introduced in 1982) features an independently adjustable hour hand and is capable of maintaining time in three different time zones simultaneously. Every current production would be the GMT-Master II: the original Rolex GMT-Master is no longer in production, but it is a limited item with a highly desired status.
Are Rolex GMT-Master watches worth investing in?
Yes. Rolex GMT-Master models exhibit tremendous value, as their discontinued status leads to a finite supply and the use of aluminum bezel versions, which are becoming increasingly rare among serious collectors willing to make a purchase. Older Rolex GMT-Master models, especially the 1675 and the last 16700 Pepsi, always retain their value. Whole collections of original records are available in the collector market at very high prices.
What comes with this Rolex GMT-Master?
Every Rolex GMT-Master sold by Master Luxury is sold with: watch on the Oyster or Jubilee bracelet as requested, inner/outer boxes (where applicable), detailed warranty, instruction booklet, as well as all original documentation (observed in listing). Old references serve as an authentication check and documentation of conditions, ensuring the protection of the investment.
