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What do you look for when choosing a mechanical watch?
Many of you would probably say "design," "functionality," or "asset value." While appearance and resale value are certainly very important factors, increasing your knowledge and understanding of a brand or model's historical background, or minor changes throughout its history, can make you love watches even more and enhance the joy of choosing one. In this column, we will thoroughly dissect and explain as much knowledge about mechanical watches as possible, whether you are a beginner or an advanced enthusiast, to help you in your watch selection.
This time, we will focus on vintage, semi-vintage, and current models of the "GMT-Master," so please enjoy it to the end!
What are GMT-Master and GMT-Master II?
The "GMT-Master," born in 1955, is a long-selling model known for being developed for Pan American World Airways pilots.
Equipped with a GMT function that displays a second time zone, it has evolved in design and specifications over time, and is now highly popular as one of the leading sports models of [Rolex][Rolex] atmosphere.
■Click here for the product page
👉https://commit-watch.co.jp/products/36c384z9
Semi-Vintage
② "GMT-Master" "Ref.16700" R Series Black Bezel
◇Watch Features/Recommended Points◇
The "Ref.16700" is a highly popular model as the final generation of the "GMT-Master." This particular piece is from the R series, allowing you to enjoy the vintage feel unique to early production. The black bezel version offers a sporty yet subdued impression, making it attractive for pairing with suits. While retaining classic details such as tritium luminous material and a single buckle from an older generation, it also features sapphire crystal and 100m water resistance, making it practical enough. This popular model offers a charm that is a blend of vintage and current models.
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👉https://commit-watch.co.jp/products/vcz9m7tm
③ "GMT-Master II" "Ref.16718RG" X Series Silver Dial
◇Watch Features/Recommended Points◇
The "GMT-Master II" "Ref.16718RG" is a luxurious model featuring an 18K yellow gold case. Combined with a silver dial, it offers an elegant, not-too-flashy atmosphere despite being a solid gold model. The classical details typical of the semi-vintage generation are also appealing. Equipped with the "Cal.3185" movement, it also boasts practicality. This model provides an exquisite sense of luxury that lies somewhere between a sports model and a dress watch.
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👉https://commit-watch.co.jp/products/zjxp5uad
Current Models
④ "GMT-Master II" "Ref.126710BLRO" MK1 Jubilee Bracelet
◇Watch Features/Recommended Points◇
Although now discontinued, the "Ref.126710BLRO" is a popular model representing the current "GMT-Master II." This particular piece features the early MK1 bezel, offering the charm of unique colors specific to early production. The combination of the red and blue Cerachrom bezel and the Jubilee bracelet achieves a high-level balance of luxury and sportiness. Equipped with the "Cal.3285" movement, it significantly improves practicality with a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. This watch inherits the design aesthetic of vintage "GMT" while boasting the perfection typical of modern Rolex.
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👉https://commit-watch.co.jp/products/azdbnqtf
⑤ "GMT-Master II" "Ref.126713GRNR"
◇Watch Features/Recommended Points◇
Introduced in 2023, the "GMT-Master II" "Ref.126713GRNR" is the latest generation model featuring a black and gray Cerachrom bezel. In addition to the luxurious feel of the stainless steel and yellow gold combination, the subdued bezel color creates an elegant, not-too-sporty impression. Equipped with the "Cal.3285" movement, it achieves approximately 70 hours of power reserve and high durability. It is easy to use both on and off-duty, making it a highly accomplished modern luxury sports watch.
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👉https://commit-watch.co.jp/products/u8hyudh4
Summary
While they are all from the "GMT-Master" series, the greatest appeal of the series is undoubtedly the different charms offered by vintage, semi-vintage, and current models.
Vintage, with its enjoyment of aging and atmosphere.
Semi-vintage, combining practicality with classical charm.
And current models, offering the comfort of the latest technology.
Each generation has its unique appeal, and the "GMT-Master" offers the joy of choosing. We encourage you to find the perfect watch that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
