The GMT

Above GMT II on the right and the 1675 acryllic GMT Master

Introduction

Strap the Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master on to your wrist and you have not only a selfwinding waterproof watch but also an instrument that allows you to simultaneously check the time in any two different time zones you wish. Created in response to demand from professional aviators, the GMT-Master II is equipped with a device for rapidily moving the normal hour hand in one-hour jumps.

This makes it possible to momentarily display the time in a time zone different to the two that have previously been set. All that is required is to locate the hour of the new time zone on the rotatable bezel in line with the hand with the triangular tip. To return to the original time zone, the bezel is reset with its triangular marker aligned with the 12 position on the dial

The GMT Line of Rolex sport watches have been my favorite. Unlike the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, Explorer, or Daytona, I always had a need for tracking multiple time zones. Moreover, I find that the black bezel GMTs were the best looking watches; giving you the Sub Look with the 24HR functionality. The faithful have always prefered the blue/red inserts on the bezels.

Until this year, only the original GMT Masters were available in black. However, since its discontinuation, the GMT IIs are available in all three bezel color combinations (blue/red, black/burgundy, and all black). Furthermore, year 2000 brought another change in the Rolex sport line, the SEL (Solid-End-Link) bracelets.

Above GMT II on the right and the 1675 acryllic GMT Master

The GMT II line is the natural evolution of the multi-zone watches. The ability to track 3 TimeZones makes the old model obsolete. As you can see in the scan above, both watches are at 11:45 PM in the afternoon. The 24 HR hand on the GMT Master (original) is fixed to the 11:00 Hour whereas the GMT II 24HR hand is independent; pointing to 20:00 HRs. With the GMT II, I set the 24HR hand to actual UTC/GMT Time. It makes it easier for me to track a third timezone because I do not need to add or subtract the differences. For example I know that Paris is +1 GMT and Bangkok is +7. I simply move the dial either 1 or 7 increments instead of figuring out the math on the older watch.

Ref 16710 Solid End Link

Ref 1675 Hollow Link

A comparison

Before I go any further, I will cover the hot topic among Rolex collectors today. What is SEL and what is the difference? Above is a picture of the SEL bracelet on the left and the original Oyster bracelet on the right. As you can see on the right. The SEL bracelet is made from a SOLID block of steel rather than two pieces of stamp metal.

For further detailed explanation click here.

This was originally found on the Sea-Dweller line and has recently been introduce to all the Sport model of Rolexes (except Explorer 14270 as yet). What does it mean for the average consumer? Not much except that it gives the watches a more handsome look and solid feel.

Model 16710. Bezel on this model is more pronounced

Model 1675. Domed glass

Differences between Past and Present

Obviously, there has been major changes in the past 30 years since the introduction of the 1675 and the newer models. What I do notice about the new watch is the sapphire crystal, the higher beat movement (making it silky smooth sweeps), and usage of luminova. Physically, the new GMT IIs are heavier and thicker. The GMT-Master Ref 1675 have the Cal.1565 movement and theGMT-Master II have the the Cal. 3185 - a variation of the rock solid Rolex 3135 movement.

Ref 1675 Matt Dial. White Writing.

Ref 1675 Gloss Dial. Gilt Writing.

Present Day Model Ref 16710.

The newer GMT is a much flashier watch. The reflection on the sapphire crystal in combination with the white gold borders make the watch a fashion accessory but it can be worn for any occasion, casual wear , dress wear, or beach whereas the older GMT is more suited for an aviator or adventurer. However, both watches are good-looking. I just prefer the classic Rolex look.

The GMT-Master II has features that are true improvements over the earlier model and indeed make it more functional--and hence truly more "professional". The cal. 3185 is an improved movement, the fact that you can set the hour hand without hacking the seconds is tremendously useful (expecially in such an accurate watch, since you don't want to lose the time just because you're switching a time zone), a harder crystal is more scratch resistant, and the 24 hour hand is not tied to the hour hand.

Conclusion

The older GMT 1675 is a better value. If you can find one like mine (which is in excellent condition). Compared to my 4 day old GMT II, this 30 year old watch looks brand new. That is the beauty of owning a Rolex. When you get enough scratches on it, you can get it polished and brushed to look brand new. Saying that, collectors prefer watches that have not been polished. People are amazed at the quality of the older Rolex. However, if you feel that you must own "brand-new," then I suggest getting a new watch.

Article Notes: All photos taken with a Nikon CoolPix 990

Edited by Bjsonline.com