Rolex GMT-Master & GMT-Master II

The original Rolex GMT-Master was launched in 1955, when the aviation industry was in the golden age of long-haul flights. With distances shortening and jet travel becoming common, pilots needed a tool watch that would let them view multiple time zones simultaneously. Rolex created the GMT-Master, a watch designed for Pan Am flight crews, featuring a 24-hour hand and a rotating bezel that allowed the display of time in 2 time zones.

The pioneer GMT was soon turned into an aviation icon - strong, practical, fashionable, and definitely Rolex.

GMT-Master Reference Evolution

1. Ref. 6542 (1954–1959) The mythical Bakelite-bezel “Grandfather GMT.”
2. Ref. 1675 / 1675x (1959–1980) One of the oldest running Rolex references.
3. Ref. 1675x (1981–1988) Movement advancements with transitional modifications.
4. Ref. 16700 (1988–1999) The last GMT-Master before the GMT-Master II ousted it.

Its antique appeal, aluminum bezels, acrylic crystals, and historical value make the GMT-Master a very coveted gift today.

In 1982, Rolex introduced a significant development: the Rolex GMT Master II. It was initially similar to the old models, but internally, the engineering was innovative.

What Made the GMT-Master II Revolutionary

1. Separately adjustable hour hand
2. Local time adjustment without stopping the movement
3. Ability to track up to three time zones simultaneously

GMT-Master II Reference Evolution

1. Ref. 16760 (1982–1988) The Fat Lady, the first real GMT-Master II.
2. Ref. 16710 (1989–2007) Aluminum bezels; Pepsi, Coke, and Black variants.
3. Ref. 11671x (2007–2018) Supercase design + Cerachrom bezel.
4. Ref. 12671x (2018–present) Calibre 3285, Jubilee options and modern colourways.

The GMT-Master II remains one of the most sought-after Rolex models worldwide.

Movement Functionality

GMT-Master movement behaviour

1. Displays two time zones
2. The main hour hand is connected to the 24-hour hand

GMT-Master II movement behaviour

1. Displays three time zones
2. A 24-hour hand is independent
3. Quickset local hour hand

Bezel Technology

1. GMT-Master: Acrylic (6542), aluminum (1675, 16700)
2. GMT-Master II: Cerachrom ceramic from 2007 onward

Material & Design Options

1. GMT-Master: Steel, yellow gold, two-tone, acrylic crystals
2. GMT-Master II: Steel, Rolesor, Everose, white/yellow gold, Chromalight lume

Overall comparison

The GMT-Master is vintage and iconic; the GMT-Master II is modern, functional, and travel-friendly.

Rolex Pepsi (Red/Blue Bezel)

1. Most iconic colourway
2. Symbolic of Pan Am colours

Rolex Coke (Black/Red Bezel)

1. Unique to select GMT-Master II references

Rolex Batman (Black/Blue Bezel)

1. Rolex’s first bi-colour ceramic bezel

GMT-Master II Black Bezel

1. Subtle and versatile

Root Beer

1. Brown/Gold bezel, vintage and modern versions

Rose Gold GMT-Master II

1. One of the most luxurious modern GMT variants

Model price table

Rolex GMT-Master II price in the UAE / Dubai

The UAE market is among the strongest globally. Due to high demand:

1. Stainless steel GMTs trade at premium prices.
2. Pepsi and Batman variants have exceptional resale value.
3. Two-tone and gold editions are highly desired.
4. Pricing transparency is greater than in Europe or the US.

Whether it is the Rolex GMT Master price or the Rolex GMT Master II price in the UAE, Dubai remains one of the most competitive markets.

1. Local time adjustment: Adjust local time without stopping the movement.
2. Instant timezone switching: Effortless while travelling.
3. Two-zone + third-zone tracking: Using the bezel + 24h hand.
4. Practical advantages: This makes the Rolex GMT-Master II one of the most useful luxury watches ever made.

1. Cerachrom bezel material: Anti-fading, scratch-resistant.
2. Chromalight lum: Long-lasting blue glow.
3. Calibre 3285 movement: Up to 70 hours of power.
4. Oyster & Jubilee bracelets: Ergonomic upgrades.
5. 2014 Pepsi bezel breakthrough: A significant milestone in ceramic technology.
6. 2025 Cerachrom dial milestone: An innovation in Rolex material science.

1. Aviation heritage
2. Tool-watch engineering
3. Iconic colour identity
4. Strong resale
5. Collector culture
6. High liquidity

The GMT line is one of the most liquid luxury watches in the world.

1. Fast access to rare models
2. Strong collector ecosystem
3. Competitive pricing
4. Authentication standards

Dubai remains one of the best markets for Rolex GMT master dubai collectors.

1. Certified authentic Rolex
2. Transparent UAE pricing
3. Access to rare/discontinued models
4. Private sourcing
5. Investment-guided support
6. International collector network

Whether you are exploring the Rolex GMT-Master vs. Rolex GMT-Master II, seeking vintage charm, or looking for the latest Cerachrom variants, Apil guarantees a premium purchasing experience.