The Rolex GMT-Master II is a legend, a watch synonymous with global travel and high-end horology. Its instantly recognizable bezel, complex functionality, and robust build have cemented its place in watch history. However, before the current generation of GMT-Master IIs, specifically the models referenced by their reference numbers like the 116710LN and 116710BLNR, there existed a lineage of GMT watches that often get overlooked. One such model deserves a closer look: the Rolex GMT Edelstahl 116700 (While the reference number 116700 doesn't officially exist in Rolex's catalogue, this article refers to the GMT-Master ref. 16700, which is often misidentified or confused with later models, and using the 116700 as a placeholder to represent the general discussion of the predecessor to the 116710). This article aims to explore the GMT-Master ref. 16700, clarifying its place in Rolex history and highlighting its unique appeal, particularly in comparison to the more modern and widely discussed Rolex GMT 116710.
The GMT-Master ref. 16700, often mistakenly referred to as a 116700, holds a special position in the Rolex pantheon. As previously mentioned, it was positioned as a more affordable alternative to the then-new GMT-Master II. This doesn't mean it was a compromised timepiece; rather, it represented a more streamlined and arguably purist approach to the GMT functionality. While the GMT-Master II introduced independent hour hand adjustment and a bidirectional rotating bezel with a 24-hour graduated insert, the ref. 16700 retained the simpler, unidirectional bezel and relied on the traditional method of adjusting the hour hand to change time zones. This simplification contributed to a lower price point, making the watch accessible to a wider range of collectors.
The aesthetic differences between the ref. 16700 and the later 116710LN and 116710BLNR are subtle yet significant. The ref. 16700 generally features a more slender case, a less prominent crown guard, and a simpler bezel design. The dial is also typically less cluttered, contributing to a cleaner, more classic appearance. These subtle differences, however, contribute significantly to the overall character of the watch. The ref. 16700 exudes a certain understated elegance, a quality that many collectors find particularly appealing. The absence of the cyclops magnifier over the date window further enhances this minimalist aesthetic.
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