ROLEX GMT-Master II, 40mm, Calibre 3175 Automatic Chronometer, 16700
Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16700 is one of the most desirable transitional references from the golden era of Rolex professional sports watches. Produced alongside the GMT-Master II during the late 1980s and 1990s, the Ref. 16700 retained the classic GMT architecture while introducing modern upgrades including a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and the highly regarded Rolex Calibre 3175. This example features the unmistakable 40mm Oystersteel case, rotating 24-hour bezel, and an original tritium dial and hands, giving it the authentic character increasingly sought after by vintage Rolex collectors.
At its heart is the Rolex Calibre 3175 automatic movement, a chronometer-certified calibre developed specifically for the GMT-Master. Robust, precise, and engineered for long-term reliability, it provides approximately 48 hours of power reserve and allows the 24-hour hand to display a second time zone in conjunction with the rotating bezel. The Ref. 16700 represents the final generation of the original GMT-Master before its discontinuation, giving it an important place within the history of Rolex's legendary travel watch. Specifications
- Brand: Rolex
- Model: GMT-Master
- Reference: 16700
- Movement: Rolex Calibre 3175 Automatic Chronometer
- Power Reserve: Approximately 48 Hours
- Case Material: Oystersteel (904L Stainless Steel)
- Case Size: 40mm
- Dial: Black Tritium Dial
- Luminous Material: Tritium
- Bezel: Bidirectional Rotating 24-Hour Bezel
- Crystal: Scratch-Resistant Sapphire Crystal
- Bracelet: Oystersteel Oyster Bracelet
- Clasp: Single-Folding Oysterclasp
- Wrist Size: Fits up to 19.5cm
- Water Resistance: 100m (not guaranteed due to age)
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date, Second Time Zone
- Production Period: Circa 1988–1999
- Accessories: Box and Papers
- Condition: A few traces of usage and some scratches can be seen, but overall the watch remains in very good condition.
- Availability: Global Concierge Sourcing Service Key Features
- Movement — Rolex Calibre 3175 automatic chronometer movement renowned for its precision, durability, and dependable long-term performance.
- Tritium Dial — Original-style tritium luminous material provides the distinctive character associated with Rolex professional watches of this era and is particularly desirable amongst collectors.
- Case Size — Classic 40mm Oystersteel case delivering the proportions and unmistakable wrist presence that helped define the Rolex GMT.
- GMT — 24-hour hand combined with the bidirectional rotating bezel allows the wearer to track a second time zone, reflecting the model's origins as a professional travel watch.
- Heritage — The Ref. 16700 was the final generation of the original GMT-Master, making it an important transitional reference between vintage and modern Rolex production.
The Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16700 occupies a particularly interesting position in Rolex history, combining the character of the original GMT-Master with important modern refinements such as a sapphire crystal. With its tritium dial and hands, original box and papers, and very good overall condition, this example offers considerable appeal for collectors seeking an increasingly desirable reference from the classic era of Rolex professional watches. Available through our Global Concierge Sourcing Service.
"Style is Timeless."