Watch Anatomy Book Vol. 32 GMT-Master (Ref. 16750, Ref. 16700)

What do you look for when choosing a mechanical watch?

Many people would probably answer "design," "functionality," and "asset value." Of course, appearance and resale value are very important points, but by increasing your knowledge and understanding of the historical background of brands and models, minor changes over the years, and other factors, you will likely come to love watches even more and enjoy the fun of choosing one. In this column, we will provide as much information as possible about mechanical watches to both beginners and advanced watchers, and will provide a thorough analysis and explanation to help you choose a watch.

This time, we will be focusing on the Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16750 and Ref. 16700, so be sure to read to the end.

Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16750 and Ref. 16700

In the evolution of the GMT-Master, the Ref. 16750 and Ref. 16700 occupy a place between vintage and modern. The Ref. 16750 represented a technological evolution from the previous generation, the Ref. 1675, while the Ref. 16700 represented the final form of the GMT-Master. In this article, we will explain the background, specifications, dial variations, lume, and bezel of both references.

Ref.16750 Basic information

・Production period: 1980-1988 ・Case diameter: 40mm
Bezel: Bidirectional rotating bezel (Pepsi / Black)
Crystal: Plastic Movement: Cal.3075
・Waterproof performance: 100m

overview:
The Ref. 16750 follows the design of the Ref. 1675, but offers significantly improved water resistance and practical functionality. Equipped with the Cal. 3075 movement, it adds a quick date change and second hand stop (hack) function, making it a more practical GMT watch.

Ref.16750 Dial Variations

①Matte dial (rimless) [circa 1980-1983]

Mk.1 (circa 1980-82)

・Features a well-balanced crown mark and lettering with serifs ・The top of the ROLEX "R" looks large

Mk.2 (circa 1982-83)

- The crown mark is sharp and the letters have no serifs.

The matte black dial has a classic feel, with tritium luminous paint applied directly to it. The white indexes have no borders, giving it a look reminiscent of the later Ref. 1675 models. It has the vintage feel of the early models, and the fading of the tritium luminous paint creates individual differences.

② Lacquer dial (with border) [circa 1983 - 1988]

Mk.3 (circa 1983-84)

・Like the matte dial, the dial has no "DATE" markings. ・The letters have no serifs.

◯ Mk.4 (circa 1984-88)

・The word "DATE" will be added after OYSTER PERPETUAL. ・All letters will have serifs.

Later models featured a glossy lacquer dial with white gold edging on the indexes. This design strikes a good balance between visibility and luxury, and is a continuation of the design of the successor, the Ref. 16700.

Ref.16700 Basic information

・Production period: 1988-2000 ・Case diameter: 40mm
Bezel: Bidirectional rotating bezel (Pepsi / Black)
Crystal: Sapphire crystal Movement: Cal. 3175
・Waterproof performance: 100m

overview:
The Ref. 16700, released in 1988, was the final model of the GMT-Master. Equipped with the Cal. 3175 and featuring a sapphire crystal crystal, it boasted improved robustness and durability. Sold alongside the GMT-Master II Ref. 16710 at the same time, it is popular among collectors as a GMT with a single time zone display.

Ref.16700 Dial Variations

① Tritium luminous (around 1988-1998)

The dial has a border and is inscribed "SWISS - T25." This is seen on earlier models, and the unique fading and texture of the tritium luminous material makes it a popular semi-vintage model.

② Luminova luminous (1998 and later)

This is a later model in which the luminous material was changed from tritium to Luminova. It is marked "SWISS" or "SWISS MADE." It has high nighttime visibility and is more practical.

bezel

・Red x Blue (commonly known as Pepsi)

The GMT-Master's traditional two-tone design distinguishes between day and night. Vintage models have distinctive red and blue fading, giving them a unique charm.

・Black bezel

The calming color is easy to match with suits and business attire. The "Ref. 16700" is especially popular among those who prefer a simple look.

The Mk.3 and Mk.4 bezels of the "Ref.1675" were service bezels, but they were also original inserts for the "Ref.16750", as shown below.

(Mk.3) Original insert for Ref.16750 *Image is of Ref.1675

・It is similar to the Mk.1 bezel, but the triangle is not an equilateral triangle but an isosceles triangle. ・Another feature is that the top of the number "8" is larger.

(Mk.4) Original insert for Ref.16750 *Image is of Ref.1675

・The triangle is the largest. ・The circles above and below the number "8" are shaped like perfect circles.

summary

What did you think?

The "Ref. 16750" is a semi-vintage GMT Master that combines a classic look with practicality. Meanwhile, the "Ref. 16700" is the perfected version of the "GMT Master," combining modern style with robustness. Both models serve as a bridge between eras and remain highly popular today. Individual variations due to differences in dial specifications and luminous materials are numerous, making them appealing for their balance of collectibility and practicality.

See you again in the next model explanation!
See you next time!!