Rolex GMT Master II: 16710 vs 116710

The Rolex GMT-Master is without a doubt an icon in the world of luxury timepieces. It’s one of the world’s first GMT watches — a response to the request of Pan Am Airlines for a reliable tool watch that pilots can use during transatlantic flights.

In its almost 70-year history, the Rolex GMT-Master has gone through several updates, while keeping the design DNA that fans have come to love.

Two of the most coveted references of the GMT-Master II are the 16710 and 116710 – both of which brought about important milestones in the history of the collection. What do the 16710 and 116710 represent and how do they differ? Let’s compare.

Rolex GMT Master II ref 16710 Men’s Watches: Blue Red Pepsi Bezel, Black Red Coke Bezel, All Black Bezel

BEZEL

The Rolex GMT-Master II 16710 is one of the longest-running references from the line, produced from 1989 to 2007. It became well received for its sleeker, upgraded case and thinner movement.

It was also the last five-digit model and the final one to have the aluminum bezel insert.

Rolex GMT Master II Black Dial / Batman Blue Black Ceramic Bezel Steel Watch 116710

In 2007, a new generation of the GMT-Master II was introduced with the 116710. This time, the bezel is made of Cerachrom ceramic, a significantly more resilient and durable material than aluminum, which protects it from scratches and fading.

The 16710 was fitted with vibrant Pepsi, Coke, and all-black aluminum bezel inserts while the 116710 came in a Batman or all-black version.

Rolex GMT Master II ref 16710 Men’s Watches: Blue Red Pepsi Bezel, Black Red Coke Bezel, All Black Bezel

CASE AND DIAL

Both the 16710 and 116710 come in a stainless steel finish, with 40mm case sizes and 100 meter water resistance.

However, when placed side by side, the 116710 looks significantly larger due to its Super Case and Maxi Dial.

Broader lugs and and a bigger crown guard, along with thicker hands and larger hour markers, give the newer 116710 a noticeably more bold and chunky overall appearance. Its Chromalight blue lume also makes for easier readability in the dark.

Rolex GMT Master II Batman Blue Black Ceramic Bezel Steel Watch 116710

MOVEMENT

The 16710 is equipped with the Caliber 3185 movement, which include a Quickset function for easy adjustment of the date display, an independent 24-hour hand and a 48-hour power reserve.

Later versions of the 16710 and the new 116710 were upgraded to the Caliber 3186, which has the same specifications as the 3185, but with the addition of the paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring and a smoother running jump-hour hand.

BRACELET

The 16710 is available in both Oyster and Jubilee bracelet versions, with hollow center links and a folded metal clasp.While the 116710 is only available in the three-piece Oyster bracelet, it is equipped with solid end-links and center links. It also has the newer Oysterlock clasp, which comes with an Easylink comfort extension system, that extends or shortens the bracelet by 5mm.

With these two Rolex GMT-Master II models, it all comes down to personal taste. If you prefer the classic styling of a vintage sports watch, go for the ref 16710. If you’d rather have a bold and modern timepiece with the latest technology, the ref 116710 is your best bet.

Either way, the Rolex GMT-Master II is a must-have for any watch collection. Explore our wide selection of Rolex GMT-Master watches at SwissWatchExpo.com.

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