After much anticipation, Rolex launched two new variations of GMT-Master II at Watches & Wonders 2023 with an all-new bezel combination. The GMT-Master has had a long list of admirers, especially among frequent travellers, since it first debuted in 1955. The reasons were its unique features, timeless elegance and unmatched precision.
But if there’s one thing that caught our attention in the new release, it is – the vintage vibe! Does the new GMT-Master II have a vintage vibe? Well, we surely have a reason to say that. Below we’ve discussed everything that makes the watch a stunner!
- Unusual Combination
The new Rolex releases sport a new combination of materials and colours. Rolex has once again introduced yellow gold in the collection, making the watches stand out even more. There are two versions: one in solid yellow gold with Ref. 126718GRNR and another in steel and gold (Rolesor) with Ref. 126713GRNR. Both watches have a glossy black dial and a 40mm case diameter.
The thing which adds a new dimension is the grey and black bezel combination. The grey and black combined bezel sitting comfortably with the solid yellow gold and steel & yellow gold GMT-Master II models will surely appeal to all fans.
- The Jubilee bracelet looks vintage
The two new additions come exclusively on a Jubilee bracelet with striking vintage charm. The Jubilee bracelet is one of the most comfortable bracelets created by Rolex with an Easylink comfort extension. This allows the wearer to add an extra 5mm to the bracelet length.
Seeing the GMT-Master II on a jubilee bracelet definitely gives away a nice vintage feeling, similar to the previous Root Beer models. However, what sets the new GMT-Master II’s bracelet apart is its solid bracelet without hollow links, adding modernity to this classic-looking timepiece.
- Updated Movement
Rolex’s in-house movement Calibre 3285 powers the 2023 GMT-Master II watches. Rolex introduced this movement a few years back, and it has proven to be extremely precise and reliable. The movement has an accuracy rating of -2/+2 seconds per day and offers a power reserve of 70 hours. But honestly, you never really have to worry about the brand’s movement.
- GMT Function
The watch showcases two time zones simultaneously using the 24-hour graduated bezel and 24-hour hand, allowing users to track the time in a second location easily. Therefore, it is, of course, an ideal watch piece for globetrotters.
- Chromalight & Water Resistance
The hands and hour markers are filled with an enduring luminous material that emits a stunning blue glow in the dark like forever. Both the GMT-Master II gold watches offer a water resistance of up to 100 meters. So, if you expose it to humidity and water, no problem!
Now that we discussed how the watches look, the question remains: Are they the best GMT-Master II watches Rolex has created so far?
Simply said, yes! This is because the new GMT-Master II is, in a true sense, a GMT. You can set the 12-hour had independently and use the 24-hour indication on the bezel to track the time zone. The ceramic two-tone bezel is one of the best out there, with an amazingly smooth click per hour, which is a little different and better than the pre-ceramic versions that had a little spring.
Moving forward to the jubilee bracelet, its appearance and vintage aesthetic is simply iconic. Even though Rolex implements minor modifications to its timepieces, the amount of thought that goes into making each one is incredible.
To Us: The new GMT-Master II releases are attractive sports watch options with an additional and useful complication.
Last Thoughts..
The GMT-Master is a classic traveller’s watch, and the new upgrades only added to its glory and functionality. Both the solid gold and Rolesor GMT-Master II watches are incredible and, in no time, will be highly sought-after by collectors and buyers. This is perhaps one of the biggest releases by Rolex in 2023. Do you think the watches should get a nickname based on their bi-colour bezel combination? How about ‘Dark Knight’?
Watch Specifications
- Model: GMT-Master II
- Reference: 126718GRNR (yellow gold) & 126713GRNR (rolesor)
- Case Diameter: 40mm
- Case Material: 18ct yellow gold & stainless steel & gold
- Bezel: Grey & Black Ceramic bezel
- Dial: Black
- Case Back: Yellow Gold & Stainless steel
- Crystal: Sapphire Crystal
- Movement: Calibre 3285
- Water Resistance: 100meters
- Power Reserve: 70 hours
Bracelet/Strap: Yellow gold Jubilee / Rolesor Jubilee