The GMT-Master II is the traveller’s Rolex: a 24-hour hand and a rotating bezel let you read a second — and with an independent hour hand, even a third — time zone at a glance. It is also one of the most nickname-driven watches in collecting, where the bezel colour can swing the price by thousands. Knowing the references and what each two-tone bezel means is the difference between a smart buy and an expensive mistake.
Know the references
- 16710 (to 2007): the last aluminium-bezel GMT-Master II, 40mm, available in Pepsi (red/blue), Coke (red/black) and all-black. Powered by calibre 3185, later 3186. The value-entry point and a modern-vintage favourite.
- 116710LN (2007–2019): the first steel GMT to get the Cerachrom ceramic bezel, in black, with calibre 3186 and an Oyster bracelet. The 116710BLNR “Batman” (blue/black, from 2013) joined it.
- 126710 generation (2018 onward): the ceramic Pepsi (126710BLRO) returned in steel in 2018, followed by the Batman on this reference. Powered by the newer calibre 3285 and, for the first time in years, offered on a Jubilee bracelet.
The bezel and its nicknames
Collectors talk in colours: Pepsi (red/blue), Batman or Batgirl (blue/black), Root Beer (brown/black), and the left-handed “Sprite” (green/black, crown on the left). Demand — and therefore price — follows fashion and availability, with the steel Pepsi often the most sought-after. Making a two-colour ceramic bezel is genuinely difficult, which is part of why the modern versions are so prized. On older 16710s, the aluminium insert fades and can be swapped, so confirm it is correct and original.
Jubilee vs Oyster
The five-link Jubilee bracelet returned with the 126710 in 2018 and has become a signature look; the three-link Oyster is sportier and was the only option on the 116710. This is largely personal taste, but on the secondary market certain bezel-and-bracelet combinations carry a premium, so it is worth knowing what you are paying for.
The movement: 3186 vs 3285
The older ceramic references (116710) use calibre 3186 with a 48-hour power reserve; the current 126710 generation uses calibre 3285, part of Rolex’s modern family, with a 70-hour power reserve and improved efficiency, shock and magnetic resistance. Both let you set the local hour hand independently in one-hour jumps without stopping the watch — the feature that makes a GMT-Master II so useful for travellers.
Full set, service and red flags
As always, a full set adds provenance, but a well-documented watch-only example from a trusted dealer is fine. Check the bezel action is crisp, the 24-hour hand and date are correctly set, and the serial and reference are consistent. Walk away from a suspiciously cheap “Pepsi”, a faded insert on a watch sold as mint, mismatched lume, or any serial-number inconsistency.
GMT-Master II buying checklist
- Identify the exact reference and generation (aluminium 16710 vs ceramic 116710 vs current 126710).
- Confirm the bezel colour is correct and, on ceramic models, unchipped and unswapped.
- Match the calibre to the reference (3186 vs 3285) and check the independent hour-hand function.
- Decide Jubilee or Oyster and confirm the bracelet is correct for the watch.
- Original dial and matching lume; unpolished case with sharp lugs.
- Consistent serial and reference; service history where available.
- Bought from a specialist who authenticates every watch.
How GrecoWatch can help
GrecoWatch is an Athens-based luxury watch specialist and a Chrono24 Trusted Seller. We source and authenticate GMT-Master II references across every bezel and generation — Pepsi, Batman, Root Beer and more — with insured worldwide shipping and private viewings by appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 116710 and 126710 GMT-Master II?
The 116710 (2007–2019) uses calibre 3186 with a 48-hour power reserve and came only on an Oyster bracelet. The 126710 (2018 onward) uses calibre 3285 with a 70-hour power reserve, slightly refined lugs, and the option of a Jubilee bracelet.
Which GMT-Master II bezel is the most valuable?
It varies with demand, but the steel ceramic “Pepsi” (126710BLRO) typically commands the highest premium, followed by the “Batman”. Prices move with availability and fashion, so check the current market before buying.
Is the aluminium-bezel 16710 a good buy?
Yes — it is the last aluminium GMT-Master II, offers modern-vintage character at a lower entry point, and is highly collectible. Just confirm the insert is original and the calibre (3185 or 3186) matches the watch.
How do I know a GMT-Master II is authentic?
Buy from a dealer who inspects and guarantees the watch. For total certainty, have it authenticated at an official Rolex Service Centre, where the movement and components can be verified against Rolex’s records.
Explore GrecoWatch: Browse the collection · Watch service & repair · Sell or trade your watch