Rolex GMT-Master Watches – Never Worn or Used
Launched in 1955, the Rolex GMT-Master is a travelerโs essential, featuring dual time zones for global journeys. Itโs both functional and stylish, ideal for world travelers. This watch is a symbol of international sophistication.
Rolex GMT-Master Series
Travel was becoming more and more popular in the early 1950s. In 1955 Rolex collaborated with American Airways and created the first Oyster Perpetual GMT master. These timepieces were specifically made for pilots, making it easy to read the time zone of their destination as well as their original time zone.Unique Features and Innovations
Rolex GMT master timepieces were made to significantly change peopleโs lives. It was the first wristwatch to provide some very necessary technical improvements.These improvements were a big innovation for watch lovers and travelers and quickly became a must for them. This watch not only provided essential features but its variety of color combinations of its bezel made it very appealing. Its innovative design still captures peopleโs attention. This luxury accessory provides an unforgettable experience, which makes it more and more desirable. These timepieces quickly became a symbol of luxury and precision.24 Hours Bezel
GMT-master has a 24 hours rotatable bezel and a 4th hand to indicate the second timezone
Multiple Timezones
GMT masterโs highly effective feature allowed users to track a secondary time zone, by simply rotating the bezel.
Water Resistant
One of the convenient features of the Rolex GMT master timepieces is their water resistance up to 100 meters.
Jubilee and Oyster
GMT-Master features Oyster and the iconic Jubilee bracelet options.
Rolex GMT-Master Cost
Active
Discontinued
All Original GMT-Master models are Discontinued, although GMT-Master II is an evolution of the initial model, which are still active. |
GMT-Master Model Ref. | Retail Price |
Pepsi 1670 | $3,300 |
1675 | $4,700 |
16750 | $3,000 |
16753 | $6,000 |
16760 | $3,000 |
When was the GMT-Master Discontinued?
The first model of Rolex GMT-Master was released in 1955. It was created in collaboration with Pan Am for pilots. It was a relatively uncomplicated design that was innovative in its time: a 24-hour rotating bezel and a second hour hand that went around the dial once in every twenty-four hours. The operational usefulness of this modification enabled the pilots to follow a different time zone by adjusting the bezel to the appropriate hour. Ref. 6542โs introduction to the market was almost like a waterfall. It was easy to see why GMT Master was so popular right from the start. It featured a remarkable 38mm stainless steel case and a matching bracelet while the now famous blue-and red Bakelite bezel, which had a 24-hour scale, completed it all. The two colored bezels werenโt just nice to look at, and they also made it easier for pilots to tell the time in their second time zone, day or night. This caught on quickly and the blue and red colors became known as the colors of the GMT Master โ or Pepsi Rolex as the name goes lovingly. Slowly with every passing day, it is what defined accuracy, courage and of course factors related to the aviation industry.Ref. 1675 and 16750: Evolution in Durability and Practicality
Rolex on the other hand by the late 1960โs brought an update which was the reference number 1675 that was considered to be better than ever. For instance in this new model, the 40mm case size was divorced from the crown guards for additional support and the Bakelite bezel was replaced with a much more effective aluminum one. Known to be one of Rolexโs longest producing models, the 1675 did not go out of production for over two decades and with that came minor changes that didnโt affect the general design of the model. In the year 1981, Rolex launched the GMT-Master Reference 16750 which had some considerable relative improvements. This watch offered twice the water resistance of earlier models. The styling was still quite consistent with the other models introduced previously, however, these changes improved its practicality for daily wear. The model ref. 16750 operated until 1988 but was later on updated to the GMT-Master II which from the name was able to offer something the rest of its predecessors were lacking, an independent 24-hour hand which made it easier to read a third time zone.GMT-Master II and Ref. 16700: The Classic Design with Modern Updates
Although the GMT-Master II came into existence, both watches have been available on the market since 1989. This model was much cheaper than the GMT-Master II even though it looked more or less the same. The 16700 brought additional updates like a sapphire crystal, white gold hour markers, a new movement, however, the main design stayed practically. However, since 1999 when it was finally phased out. GMT-Master had long been replaced for more modern GMT-Master II Gmtโs with better capabilities and more functionality. The production of the GMT Master ref 16700 was the last of the originals in the series however for its discontinuation in 1999, as it is mostly the case with Rolex watches. The GMT-Master II carries forward the spirit of the original, maintaining that perfect balance of style, functionality, and durability that made the GMT-Master a favorite of pilots and watch collectors alike.Why is the GMT-Master so expensive?
The Rolex GMT-Masterโs price can be ascribed to a variety of reasons, most notably being the distinctive design, the materials used and the manufactured quality. Like all other Rolex models, the GMT-Master is manufactured with precision and strength. It uses the best quality metals, has modern movements and is made after going through extensive quality controls at Rolex. Besides, the GMT-Master will always remain desirable and more valuable due to its association with airplanes and Pan Am pilots, thus further improving the watch's market. Thus, the beautiful blend of value, functionality and history explains the high price of the product.Investment and value
The Rolex GMT master timepieces have proven to be not just prestigious accessories, but good investment opportunities. These watches are high in demand as pre owned timepieces. There are several factors that contribute to its strong investment potential:- Iconic design
- Limited availability
- Durability and Longevity
- Material quality
Historical Background
Rolex GMT master was first released in 1954. The 6542, was the first model in the GMT master series to feature a 24-hour rotating bezel in "Pepsi" colors (red and blue). These timepieces were distinguished by their functions and durability. This model was then replaced with the GMT master Ref 1675, which was produced for over 20 years (1959-1980). A unique feature of this watch was its โCokeโ bezel with black and red colors. The Ref 1675 was further refined with improved crown guards during its production. Rolex GMT master 16710 was produced between 1989 and 2007. This model featured a unique and updated caliber 3185. It allowed users to easily change the bezel, with one rotation and choose "Coke", "Pepsi" and black colors. This flexibility highlights the sophistication and technological advancement of rolex. Rolex then released the Rolex GMT master Ref 116710. Its bezel was made with a very scratch resistant material like ceramic. They also introduced a "Batman" bezel (black and blue). It featured the updated caliber 3186 which offers improved accuracy.Celebrities with Rolex GMT-Master
Rolex GMT-Masters are adored by many of the celebrities all around the world. Some of them include:- Tom Selleck
- Orlando Bloom
- Howard Kendrick
- Ellen DeGeneres
- Sylvester Stalone
Men's Rolex GMT-Master
- Case Diameter:40mm or 41 mm
- Dial Color Options:Black, Blue, Green, and various special editions
- Bezel Options:"Pepsi" (Red and Blue), "Coke" (Black and Red), "Batman" (Black and Blue), and all-black
- Bracelet Options:Oyster bracelet (stainless steel, two-tone, or solid gold), Jubilee bracelet, and occasionally rubber straps
Maintenance and Care for Rolex GMT-Master
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Rolex GMT master hold value? Rolex GMT master is one of the best watches to investment, due to its features and timeless design. That's why it maintains its value over time.
Can you dive with Rolex GMT? Yes, every Rolex GMT timepiece can technically be used for diving.
How long does a Rolex GMT last? With proper care a Rolex watch can last a lifetime.