It’s been nearly 10 years since the Rolex GMT-Master II welcomed a ceramic bezel in the reference 116718LN in 2005, a full yellow gold affair with a single tone black ceramic bezel hosting the 24hr indication. Two years later, we’d get the same LN (Lunette Noir) black ceramic bezel in a steel reference 116170LN with a black dial and distinctive green GMT hand. This reference would be discontinued in 2018, making way for exclusively two-tones GMT bezels from then on. This year, Rolex is bringing the concept back in a two-toned bezel configuration that we first saw last year in yellow gold and Rolesor references, with the entirely steel reference 126710GRNR (GRay NoiR) featuring a black dial and green GMT hand.
The newest GMT reference continues a trend of Rolex filling out this collection in recent years, representing the 9th configuration currently available. As for the bezel, it is an existing colorway, but this marks its first appearance in an an entirely steel clad reference, and in doing so represents something of a spiritual successor to the 116710LN with the green GMT hand, adding a slight bi-color tone to the bezel to keep with the theme of the rest of the collection (the 116710LN is also the last single color GMT bezel we’ve seen).
Let’s pause here to acknowledge that the official release year of the first GMT-Master is 1955, and not the often cited 1954. It’s believed that the GMT was introduced at Baselworld in 1954, with the earliest serial number of a 6542 GMT that I’m aware of being 112 xxx, placing it in 1955. So this is not the anniversary year that some have speculated on, and it doesn’t appear that Rolex are treating it that way.
One other quick note: the reference 126710BLRO, aka the Pepsi GMT remains in production.
This year, the GMT retains the same case design and proportions, meaning a 40mm diameter and 12mm in thickness, as well as the superlative chronometer Rolex caliber 3285 inside. So practically and functionally the watch remains unchanged. This is a watch that wears quite well, though a tough on the bulky side for its dimensions, especially when compared to its 5 digit predecessor. Vitally, this watch is being offered in both oyster and jubilee bracelet configurations, both feature the easy link system for adjustments rather than the Glidelock clasp.
The GRNR is now the most low key GMT available, flying under the radar with ease compared to the existing colorways, and will represent the most demure and perhaps straightforward approach to the formula. This has been sorely missed since the discontinuation of the 1166170LN, while also reaffirming their commitment to the two-toned bezel application in the process.
Pricing is set at CHF10,400, with availability* expected later this year. Keep an eye out for hands-on impressions coming later this week. Rolex