My Rolex: The GMT-Master II Ref. 116710LN
On Aug. 15, 1958, Pan Am took delivery of the United States’ first commercial jet airliner, a Boeing 707-120, and two months later made history by launching the first daily transatlantic jet service connecting New York and Paris. That feat propelled Pan Am Airways to commission another, smaller engine, for their pilots. Indeed, the now defunct air carrier contacted Rolex to make a “technical” wristwatch that could indicate the two different time zones simultaneously: The Rolex GMT-Master had landed. The history of this model is long – outliving its co-creator – and many references were launched, but today we focus on a modern model, Reference 116710LN.
This GMT-Master II is absolutely one of my favorite models. Maybe because I love the green details on the dial or maybe because it is an ideal watch for every occasion, be it casual or elegant, but I truly adore it. Rolex presented this new version of the GMT-Master II at Baselworld 2007. Available only in stainless steel – how things have changed – it presented a few changes from its predecessor (Ref. 16710) including a new movement, caliber 3186.
The case has been re-modeled, the famous Triplock replacing the smaller twinlock crown, while the 24 hour rotating bezel has been covered by a black ceramic disc with engraved numerals. The dial features larger indexes than earlier models; and features green accents against its dark façade. The sapphire crystal has been engraved with a representation of the Rolex crown, situated exactly at 6 o’clock, close to the external edge. This engraving, almost invisible to the naked eye, can be seen using a magnifying lens on a dark background. And it is subtle details like this which make this watch truly unique.
In this model, as in the GMT-MASTER II, reference 116713 and 116718, Rolex has repeatedly engraved the internal edge of the “carrure” with the word ROLEX and at 6 o’clock, the serial number of the watch. It is fitted with an Oyster bracelet reference 78200, equipped with a new clasp with additional extension link and a safety lock. Look out for the Rolex GMT-MASTER Ref. 116710LN, and if you come across one in very good condition, be ready to say farewell to approximately $ 7,000.
Photo Credit: Giorgia Mondani. You can find more information about this model and every GMT-Master reference in the book “Collecting Rolex GMT-Master” available on Collecting Watches.
