subject: Rolex GMT Master - Did you know the story behind it? [print this page] Launched in 1954 in collaboration with the Pan Am Airways, Rolex GMT Master was designed to suit the needs of the Pilots. It is one of the most professional models available with Rolex. This model is designed for compatibility with different time zones. Rolex Master suits those professionals who usually travel along transcontinental flights and the date and time are adjusted with the Greenwich Mean Time. This model is also known as the Aviator watch. The original idea was that of a watch which has an additional hour hand revolving just one time every 24 hours. This watch will also have a rotatable bezel marked with the same 24 hours.
There is no doubt that this model is one of the pioneer models in the Rolex Collection. The R&D team continuously enhanced this model with unique features time after time. The Quick Set date feature is one such feature where you do not have to adjust the date by continuously winding the crown through all the dates so that you can fix it to the current date. Later on a scratch proof sapphire crystal was added to Rolex GMT Master Model. There are models which can display two or three time zones. The bidirectional rotatable bezel is the highlight in the model. The additional GMT hand completes the entire 24 hour cycle in a single rotation. And this rotation helps one to change the time zone.
A complete makeover was done and presented in the year 2005. Earlier this model was available in all-gold models. However, the latest is now available in yellow gold with a green dial. At present you would see that the most selling model is the one with the black dial. You can find a stainless steel yellow gold version as well as a stainless steel only version. Many technical changes have taken place ever since the first model was launched. Rolex also patented the Parachrom hairspring feature and the larger Triplock crown feature. Looks wise also the model has seen tremendous changes.
You will now see models with larger hands and new bezels. These bezels are made up of robust ceramic materials which resist the common damages and discoloration by the watches. If you closely observe the Rolex GMT Master you will find numbers on the bezel are filled with a fine layer of gold. The stainless steel model has the platinum embossed numbers to be in sync with the outer body. All the embossing is done with a process called the Physical vapor deposition. The models are crystal fitted. These crystals are extracted from a solid block of synthetic sapphire. This material acts as a scratch resistant.
The first model ever was the 6542 model which had a bakelite bezel insert. The bezel was made up of metal and was luminous. This model became popular with the name Pussy Galore which originated from a character wearing it in a James Bond movie. The next model was the 1675 model which was famous for its pointed crown guards. You will see an imprint "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified" on the dial from this model onwards. The older models have a golden crown on dial and latest versions just have the crown imprinted.
The 16750 model made up of acrylic crystals comes in two different variants of dial. The first one comes with a Matt without while gold indexes. The second one is Glossy with white gold indexes. The later model was the 16760 called the Fat Lady or Sophia Loren named so because of an extra thick case, white gold indices border and sapphire crystals. This is available in the red/black bezel with a 24-hr hand independently adjustable. The 16700 model replaced the 16750 with a non independent hour hand. This model in the Rolex GMT Master has sapphire crystal, white gold indexes with a new case. It is available only in stainless steel with a date-wheel vintage open numbers until 1992/1993.
The 16710 model has a solid end link bracelet with a laser crown. A new certificate is available with the Z-series. This model is available in 3 different bezels such as red/black or coke, BLRO or Pepsi and LN i.e. Black. The 116710 model is the latest in design and style. The ceramic bezel comes with 24 clicks and the numbers are made with gold or platinum. Solid clasp and polished center links are the special attractions. With the Rolex GMT Master models your time could just get better and better.
Rolex GMT Master - Did you know the story behind it?
