Why This Watch Matters The first of the Rolex GMT-Master IIs, this ref. 16760 shows off with a "Coke" bezel insert and thicker case dimensions. The Full Story Rolex introduced the first GMT-Master, the ref. 6542, in 1955 through a partnership with Pan-Am Airlines to supply their pilots with a watch that could easily display two time-zones at once. The ref. 6542 was phased out with the addition of the ref. 1675 in 1959, differing in many ways including the addition of crown guards. The company has continued to produce variants of the GMT-Master ever since. The story of the GMT-Master II starts right here with the ref. 16760, otherwise known as the "Fat Lady" for its increased case thickness when compared to the GMTs that came before it. This increase was made necessary by the GMT-Master's first major movement upgrade in its production run. The caliber 3085 allowed for the 12-hour, main hour hand to jump in one-hour increments forward or backward without the movement stopping, a major technical improvement. For further information on these transitional GMT references, check out this website and, for comprehensive GMT-Master coverage, read our Reference Points: Understanding The Rolex GMT-Master. Our example this week dates to 1984 and is distinguished by great overall condition and a very vibrant "Coke" bezel insert. The ref. 16760 was the first GMT-Master II to feature this black and red bezel layout as opposed to the more traditional blue and red "Pepsi" insert seen prior. The case on this example is strong and matches well to the solid-link Oyster bracelet, providing an overall solid wrist feel. The Fine Print Maker: RolexModel: GMT-Master IIReference: 16760Year: 1984Case No: 8366305Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 40mm diameter; 13mm thicknessCrystal: SapphireLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Rolex, self-winding, caliber 3085Bracelet/Strap: Rolex stainless steel solid-link Oyster bracelet No. 93150 with No. 580 end-links and divers' extension Lug Width: 20mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This GMT is in overall very nice, attractive condition. The case is strong with scratches and some light nicks. The case appears to have been polished. The caseback shows signs of polishing and has some marks. The numbers are visible between both sets of lugs. The back of the lugs have some marks from the removal and placement of the bracelet. The dial is in great condition with a clean gloss finish. The lume on the dial has developed patina that's aged to a light cream color. The handset has developed light patina. The lume on the hands has developed patina and is very close in color to that of the dial lume. The "Coke" bezel has aged well with some scratches and light wear. The solid link Rolex Oyster 93150 bracelet is in good condition with light scratches and light stretch. The clasp is marked "H," indicating it's from 1983, which makes sense for the production of the watch. The bracelet is a period correct replacement with a flip-lock style clasp and divers' extension. It was not uncommon for people to swap bracelets on the GMT to ones with the more secure clasp, like the ones found on the Submariner. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
