In the realm of horology, certain timepieces transcend mere functionality to become icons of design, engineering, and cultural significance. The Rolex GMT-Master II 116710 stands firmly in this esteemed category. This stainless steel marvel, a reference that held court from 2007 to 2019, represents a pivotal chapter in the illustrious history of the GMT-Master lineage. More than just a tool watch, the Rolex 116710 embodies the spirit of adventure, precision, and enduring style that Rolex is renowned for. For watch enthusiasts and seasoned collectors alike, understanding the nuances of the 116710 GMT-Master II is crucial to appreciating its place in watchmaking history and its enduring appeal in the modern market.
This comprehensive article delves deep into the world of the Rolex GMT-Master II 116710, exploring its history, design, features, market value, and everything that makes it a highly sought-after timepiece. We'll uncover why this particular reference remains a benchmark for GMT watches and a cornerstone of many serious watch collections. Whether you're considering purchasing a GMT-Master II 116710, or simply wish to expand your horological knowledge, this guide provides in-depth information and actionable insights.
To fully appreciate the Rolex GMT-Master II 116710, it's essential to understand its rich heritage. The GMT-Master was originally conceived in the 1950s in collaboration with Pan American Airways. Pilots embarking on transcontinental flights needed a reliable way to track multiple time zones simultaneously. Rolex responded with the GMT-Master, a watch that could display both local time and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the international standard.
The GMT-Master II, introduced in 1982, took this functionality a step further. It featured an independently adjustable 24-hour hand, allowing travelers to easily set and read a second time zone without disrupting the primary time. This innovation cemented the GMT-Master II's status as the ultimate tool watch for global travelers and professionals.
The Rolex GMT-Master II 116710, launched in 2007, marked a significant evolution within this lineage. It was the first stainless steel GMT-Master II to feature a ceramic Cerachrom bezel, a material that revolutionized Rolex watchmaking and set a new standard for durability and scratch resistance. This reference seamlessly blended the classic GMT-Master aesthetics with modern materials and advancements, making it a truly exceptional timepiece.
The Rolex GMT-Master II 116710 boasts a 40mm Oyster case, forged from 904L stainless steel (later renamed Oystersteel). This proprietary alloy is exceptionally corrosion-resistant and maintains a brilliant polish, ensuring longevity and a luxurious feel. The case is waterproof to 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for everyday wear and light water activities.
The defining feature of the 116710 is undoubtedly its Cerachrom bezel. This black ceramic bezel is virtually impervious to scratches, fading, and the effects of UV rays. The 24-hour markings are engraved into the ceramic and then filled with platinum via a PVD process, creating a striking contrast and ensuring legibility in all lighting conditions. The unidirectional rotating bezel, with its crisp clicks, allows for the tracking of a third time zone when used in conjunction with the 24-hour hand.
The dial of the Rolex GMT-Master II 116710 is a study in legibility. The black dial provides a stark backdrop for the applied white gold hour markers and hands, all filled with Rolex's proprietary Chromalight luminescent material. This blue luminescence offers exceptional readability in low-light conditions, crucial for pilots and travelers navigating different time zones in varying environments.
The iconic Mercedes hour hand, baton minute hand, and arrow-tipped 24-hour hand are instantly recognizable Rolex signatures. The green 24-hour hand on the original 116710 (later changed to blue in subsequent models) added a subtle pop of color and further enhanced its visual appeal. The cyclops lens over the date window at 3 o'clock magnifies the date for easy reading, another hallmark Rolex design element.
The Rolex GMT-Master II 116710 is fitted with the robust Oyster bracelet, also crafted from Oystersteel. This three-link bracelet is known for its comfort, durability, and secure fit on the wrist. The polished center links and brushed outer links create a balanced aesthetic that is both sporty and refined.
The bracelet features the Oysterlock clasp, a double-folding safety clasp that prevents accidental opening. The Easylink comfort extension system, integrated into the clasp, allows for tool-free adjustment of the bracelet length by approximately 5mm, providing on-the-fly comfort adjustments as wrist size fluctuates throughout the day.
Powering the Rolex 116710 GMT-Master II is the Rolex caliber 3186, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. This movement is a testament to Rolex's horological expertise, renowned for its precision, reliability, and robustness.
The Caliber 3186 features a Parachrom hairspring, made from a paramagnetic alloy that is highly resistant to magnetic fields and temperature variations, enhancing accuracy and stability. It also incorporates a Breguet overcoil for improved isochronism. The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 48 hours and is a COSC-certified chronometer, guaranteeing exceptional timekeeping performance. The independent 24-hour hand adjustment mechanism is a key feature of the Caliber 3186, allowing for quick and easy setting of the second time zone.
The Rolex GMT-Master II 116710, despite being discontinued in 2019 and replaced by the 126710LN, remains incredibly popular and highly sought-after in the pre-owned market. Its combination of classic GMT-Master aesthetics, modern ceramic bezel, and robust construction has solidified its place as a modern classic.
Due to its discontinuation and enduring desirability, the 116710 has seen significant appreciation in value in recent years. The demand for this reference consistently outstrips supply, making it a strong performer in the secondary market and a potentially sound investment. Prices for a pre-owned Rolex GMT-Master II 116710 vary depending on condition, box and papers, and market fluctuations, but generally command a premium over their original retail price.
Collectors value the Rolex 116710 for its historical significance as the first ceramic bezel stainless steel GMT-Master II. Its balanced proportions, versatile design, and robust functionality make it a highly wearable and desirable watch for both everyday use and special occasions. The "Batman" (blue and black bezel) and "Pepsi" (red and blue bezel) GMT-Master II models that followed only further cemented the desirability of the ceramic bezel GMT-Master II, and by extension, the foundational 116710.
If you're looking to purchase a Rolex GMT-Master II 116710, here are some key considerations:
- Authenticity: Due to Rolex's popularity, counterfeits are prevalent. Purchase from reputable dealers with a strong track record and ideally, Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) programs. Thoroughly inspect the watch, including the movement (if possible), case markings, and bracelet construction. Request original box and papers for added assurance.
- Condition: Assess the watch's condition carefully. Look for scratches, dents, and wear on the case, bezel, bracelet, and crystal. Factor in the cost of potential servicing or refurbishment when evaluating price. "Full set" examples (with box, papers, and all original accessories) typically command a higher premium.
- Market Research: Compare prices from various reputable sources to get a sense of the current market value. Understand that prices can fluctuate based on market demand and overall economic conditions.
- Purpose: Consider why you want to own a Rolex 116710. Is it for daily wear, collecting, investment, or a combination? This will influence your budget and the condition you are willing to accept.
- Dealer Reputation: Choose authorized Rolex dealers (for CPO models) or reputable independent watch dealers with positive online reviews and a history of handling luxury watches. Ask for references and inquire about their authentication processes.
The Rolex GMT-Master II 116710 is more than just a watch; it's a symbol of adventure, precision, and enduring style. This reference, with its groundbreaking ceramic bezel and robust construction, represents a significant milestone in the GMT-Master lineage and Rolex's commitment to innovation. Its timeless design, coupled with its practical functionality and robust engineering, ensures its continued desirability among watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
While no longer in production, the Rolex 116710's legacy lives on, influencing subsequent GMT-Master II models and solidifying its place as a modern icon. Its enduring appeal, coupled with its appreciating value, makes the GMT-Master II 116710 a truly exceptional timepiece to own and cherish. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time luxury watch buyer, the Rolex 116710 offers a compelling blend of history, performance, and timeless elegance, making it a worthy addition to any discerning collection.
While specific URLs are dynamic and can change, the information provided in this article is based on widely available knowledge and reputable sources within the watch industry. For further reading and verification, consider exploring:
- Rolex Official Website (rolex.com) - For general information about Rolex watches and technologies.
- Reputable Watch News and Review Websites (e.g., Hodinkee, WatchTime, Fratello Watches, Revolution Watch) - For in-depth reviews, historical articles, and market analysis of Rolex watches.
- Online Watch Forums (e.g., Rolex Forums, Watchuseek) - For discussions and insights from watch enthusiasts and collectors.
- Books on Rolex Watches - Numerous books detail the history and evolution of Rolex models, including the GMT-Master II.
- Auction House Archives (e.g., Christie's, Sotheby's, Phillips) - For historical sales data and valuations of Rolex watches.
