Luxury Watch Parts Introduction ~Dial Variations~ GMT Master

Today we will be introducing luxury watch parts: dial variations - GMT Master edition .

When it comes to luxury watch dials, black is the standard, but depending on the model, there are numerous variations in color, material, design, etc. There is a wide variety of dials, from simple ones to those decorated with jewels, and there may be some dials that you don't even know exist.

So, over several posts, I would like to introduce the dials of the wide variety of Rolex models, including the Submariner, GMT Master, Yachtmaster, Daytona, Datejust, and Day Date, focusing on color, material, and design, along with their representative models. This time, in the second post, I will be introducing the GMT Master , so please enjoy until the end.

①Black Dial

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/vintage_rolex/gmt-master-322621/

This classic dial comes in many variations depending on the year of manufacture, such as mirror or matte textures, and whether the index has an edge. Early circle mirror dials that still have a glossy finish and are in good condition, as well as those with the double name Tiffany & Co. , are particularly rare and highly valued. There are also dials that turn brown (tropical) over time, and "spider dials" that have cracks that look like cracks, making this a very complex dial.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/vintage_rolex/gmt-master-242342/

② Brown dial (matte)

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/vintage_rolex/gmt-master-320668/

This dial, which was produced until around 1979, was only available in the solid gold and combination four-digit GMT Master models , and is characterized by the protruding indexes, commonly known as "barnacles," and the applied crown at the 12 o'clock position. The texture and color, which are not available in the current model lineup, combined with the small number of models produced, make this dial popular.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/vintage_rolex/gmt-master-185772/

➂ Brown dial (Sunray)

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/vintage_rolex/gmt-master-277037/

This model was produced until around 1988 and is only available in the five-digit "GMT Master" solid gold and combination models . The models produced until around 1985 had a protruding index shape commonly known as "barnacles," and since then they have been slightly changed to indexes with metal frames, and there are differences depending on the year of production, so it is still very popular even after it has been discontinued.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/vintage_rolex/gmt-master-315025/

➃Gray dial (3P ruby ​​& 8P diamond)

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/gmt-master/gmt-master2-142/

This model, with 3P rubies and 8P diamonds on the index of the gray dial, is only available in the solid gold and combination models of the 5-digit "GMT Master II." The addition of rubies and diamonds to the sunburst gray dial gives it a luxurious impression, and it is one of the dials that is rare and has a loyal fan base.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/gmt-master/gmt-master2-142/

⑤ Champagne dial (3P ruby ​​& 8P diamond)

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/gmt-master/gmt-master2-266599/

This model, with 3P rubies and 8P diamonds on the champagne dial index, is only available in the solid gold and combination models of the 5-digit GMT Master II. The addition of rubies and diamonds to the glittering sunburst champagne dial creates a beautiful contrast with the bezel color. It is relatively more common than the gray dial, but it is still one of the more popular dials, with not many in stock.

*Source: https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-4370547

⑥Green Dial

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/gmt-master/gmt-master2-27/

This beautiful matte green dial was only used on the solid model "Ref. 116718LN" in 2005 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the birth of the "GMT Master". Gold is used for the letters and GMT hand, which not only adds to the glamour but also improves visibility. Since it is not available in the current model lineup, it is the only "GMT Master" equipped with a green dial.

*Source: https://www.phillips.com/detail/rolex/HK090322/87?fromSearch=116718LN&searchPage=1

⑦Blue Dial

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/gmt-master/gmt-master2-308630/

This model, which features a matte blue dial, first appeared in the solid model "Ref. 126719BLRO", which was released as a new model in 2019. As the name "Midnight Blue" suggests, it is a calm color close to navy blue, and the contrast with the Pepsi-colored Cerachrom bezel is beautiful. Currently, it is only used in one model, but it is a popular dial that is expected to be used in SS (stainless steel) models in the future.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/gmt-master/gmt-master2-308630/

⑧Meteorite dial

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/gmt-master/gmt-master2-289451/

This model, which uses meteorite, also debuted in the solid model "Ref. 126719BLRO" released as a new product in 2019. The unique texture of the natural stone is its greatest appeal, and the contrast with the bezel and GMT hand creates a sporty yet elegant finish. This is a popular dial that is particularly rare among current models .

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/gmt-master/gmt-master2-289451/

⑨White Dial

*Source: https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/Albino-GMT-Master-6542

This watch features a white dial, which is extremely rare and not seen even in the secondary market, and was only installed on the first model "Ref . 6452" born in 1954. It is said that the "GMT Master" was developed as a supply for Pan American World Airways pilots, but the white dial, commonly known as "vanilla coke", was made for some executives, and the pilots were issued the black dial. It is an extremely rare piece that is rarely seen even in overseas auctions.

*Source: https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/Albino-GMT-Master-6542

⑩ Pavé Dial

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/gmt-master/gmt-master2-256551/

This model, which features pavé diamonds on the entire dial, is classified as a secret model and is a rare piece that is rarely seen even in the secondary market. In addition to the dial, there are models with diamonds and sapphires studded in various parts such as the lugs, center links, indexes, and bezel. This is a gorgeous auction piece that has only been offered a handful of times at the world's three major auctions.

*Source: https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-6003250

*Source: https://www.watchcentre.com/126715chnr-rolex-gmt-master-ii-root-beer-rose-gold-2

⑪ Pavé dial (iced out)

*Source: https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-5690643

This model, with its wave-decorated dial and paved diamonds, is known as the "iced out" model, with jewels placed all over the bezel, case, and bracelet, and is said to be the most expensive Rolex model. It is not officially available in Japan, and only 50 pieces were made worldwide, making it an auction piece that is rarely seen on the secondary market.

*Source: https://www.phillips.com/detail/rolex/NY080123/107?fromSearch=116769TBR&searchPage=1

summary

I think you can see that there are various "dials" available, from orthodox dials to secret models. In particular, there are many attractive black dials that have aged over the years, and they are extremely deep and will surely tickle a man's fancy. Why not take this opportunity to pay attention to the "dial" when choosing a watch?

If you're unsure of which model to choose, or are having trouble deciding, please feel free to contact us at our store, where we have knowledgeable staff on-site who will give you accurate advice based on design, functionality, budget, etc.

Once again, we hope this article helps you find your favorite luxury watch.

see you!