Introduction:

As a watch enthusiast, I’ve always had a soft spot for the Rolex GMT Master II 16710, often referred to as the "Coke" due to its unique black and red bezel. With its roots in aviation history, this timepiece is not only a marvel of engineering but also a stylish statement piece. In this review, I’ll delve into what makes the Rolex GMT Master II 16710 so special, from its design and functionality to its place in horological history.

Design and Build Quality

The Rolex GMT Master II 16710 boasts a robust stainless steel case measuring 40mm in diameter, which I find to be the perfect size, balancing presence and comfort on the wrist. The standout feature is, of course, the bi-colored bezel that gives it the nickname "Coke." This bezel, made from aluminum, sports a striking combination of black and red, reminiscent of the iconic soft drink. Not only does this color scheme add to the watch's visual appeal, but it also serves a functional purpose by helping distinguish between day and night hours.

The dial is quintessential Rolex: clean, legible, and timeless. The black background provides a perfect contrast to the white hour markers and hands, all coated with Super-LumiNova (All Tritium for older models) for excellent visibility in low light conditions. The date window at 3 o'clock, equipped with the signature Cyclops lens, ensures easy reading.

The Sapphire Cyclops lens 2.5 magnification

The so-called “GMT hand”

The singular dash, one dot or two dots means Twinlock technology

Oyster folding buckle clasp

Functionality and Movement

At the heart of my GMT Master II 16710 is the Rolex Caliber 3185, though some later models feature the Caliber 3186. This automatic movement is renowned for its reliability and precision, offering a 48-hour power reserve. The GMT complication allows me to track two time zones simultaneously – a feature originally designed for pilots and frequent travelers. The independently adjustable hour hand is particularly useful for those of us who often find ourselves hopping between time zones.

The screw-down crown and case back ensure the watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for swimming and light diving. The robust Oyster bracelet, with its secure clasp and easy micro-adjustments, adds to the overall durability and comfort of the watch.

Historical Significance

Introduced in 1989, the Rolex GMT Master II 16710 replaced the GMT Master 16760, offering a slimmer case and improved movement. The "Coke" bezel variant quickly became popular, adding to the legacy of the GMT Master line that began in the 1950s with the GMT Master 6542, originally developed in collaboration with Pan American Airways.

The 16710 remained in production until 2007, after which it was succeeded by the GMT Master II 116710LN with a Cerachrom ceramic bezel. The transition to ceramic bezels marked the end of an era, making the aluminum bezel models like the 16710 highly sought after in the collector community.

User Experience and Wearability

I find the Rolex GMT Master II 16710 incredibly versatile and comfortable. Its 40mm case size fits a wide range of wrist sizes, and the watch's balanced weight ensures it feels substantial without being cumbersome. The ease of adjusting the GMT hand and setting the date makes it a practical choice for daily wear.

Collectors and enthusiasts often highlight the "Coke" bezel's unique charm, noting that its aluminum insert can develop a patina over time, adding to the watch's character and vintage appeal. This natural aging process is something that the newer ceramic bezels lack, making each aluminum bezel model unique.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Iconic Design: The black and red "Coke" bezel is instantly recognizable and highly sought after.
• Durability: Robust stainless steel construction and water resistance up to 100 meters.
• Functionality: Ability to track two time zones simultaneously with the GMT complication.
• Comfort: Well-balanced weight and comfortable Oyster bracelet with micro-adjustments.
• Historical Significance: A beloved model in the history of the GMT Master line, adding to its collector's value.

Cons:

• Aluminum Bezel: While charming, the aluminum bezel is more prone to scratches and wear compared to ceramic bezels.
• Discontinued Model: As it’s no longer in production, finding one in good condition can be challenging and often expensive.
• Cyclops Lens: Some users find the date magnifier (Cyclops lens) aesthetically unappealing or cumbersome.
• Limited Power Reserve: The 48-hour power reserve might not be sufficient for those who rotate between several watches.

In Conclusion

In summary, the Rolex GMT Master II 16710 "Coke" is a timeless classic that combines iconic design, robust functionality, and historical significance. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of luxury watches, the 16710 offers a compelling blend of style and substance. Its enduring popularity and increasing rarity make it a worthy addition to any watch collection.

FAQs

1. What makes the Rolex GMT Master II 16710 "Coke" unique?

   • Its distinct black and red bezel, historical significance, and the ability to track two time zones simultaneously set it apart.

2. Is the Rolex GMT Master II 16710 suitable for daily wear?

   • Absolutely. Its robust build, water resistance, and comfortable design make it an excellent choice for daily use.

3. Why is the aluminum bezel preferred by some collectors?

   • The aluminum bezel can develop a unique patina over time, adding to the watch's character, a feature not found in newer ceramic bezels.

4. What movement does the Rolex GMT Master II 16710 use?

   • It originally featured the Rolex Caliber 3185 movement, later upgraded to the Caliber 3186 in its final production years.