The New Rolex GMT–Master II Ref. 126710 BLRO
Rolex is extending its GMT-Master II range with a new version in Oystersteel, equipped with a bi- directional rotatable bezel and a 24-hour graduated two-colour Cerachrom insert in red and blue ceramic. The lugs and sides of its Oyster case have been redesigned, and the watch is fitted on a five-link Jubilee bracelet.
Two other versions of the GMT-Master II introduce 18 ct Everose gold to the range for the very first time. The first is crafted entirely from this re ned, exclusive alloy, and the second is avail- able in an Everose Rolesor version, combining Oystersteel and 18 ct Everose gold. On the dials of both watches, the name “GMT-Master II” is inscribed in powdered rose. The bezels are fitted with two-colour Cerachrom inserts in a black and newly developed brown ceramic.
These new versions are equipped with the new-generation calibre 3285, at the forefront of watchmaking technology. With 10 patent applications filed over the course of its development, the movement is equipped with a Chronergy escapement and guarantees a power reserve of approximately 70 hours.
Like all Rolex watches, the new versions of the GMT-Master II carry the Superlative Chronometer certification, which ensures excellent performance on the wrist.
Originally designed to aid airline pilots in their navigation, the GMT-Master has become an unmistakable icon. Over the years its emblematic bezel has been presented in various colours, in both single and two-coloured combinations. It is the signature feature of its unique and instantly recognizable aesthetics.
With a traditional hour, minute and seconds display via hands; a 24-hour hand; and a bidirectional rotatable bezel with a 24-hour graduated Cerachrom insert, it is possible to read the time in two time zones at once: either the local time and a reference time, or the local time and another time zone as desired. The date, shown at 3 o’clock, is synchronized with the local time display.
Since 2005, Rolex has played a pioneering role in the development of special ceramics for monobloc bezels and bezel inserts. These new materials are exceptionally resistant to scratches and corrosion, and offer particularly intense colours that are un- affected by ultraviolet rays. Rolex made full use of its expertise in developing the high-technology production methods that allow it to manufacture its ceramic components independently in-house.
Rolex is able to create these ceramics in single colours as well as two-colour versions. The Cerachrom insert in red and blue ceramic is the most iconic of these, as it calls to mind the col- ours chosen for the first GMT-Master, launched in 1955.
This ceramic insert is a feat in terms of applied research and engineering. The challenge to create the insert’s red hue, which cannot be obtained using stable mineral pigments, led to the development of a complex internal process and the filing of several patent applications.
The GMT-Master II’s Oyster case, guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet), is a paragon of robust- ness and reliability. Its middle case, with an integral crown guard, is crafted from a solid block of Oystersteel or 18 ct Everose gold. The case back, edged with fine fluting, is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that allows only Rolex watchmakers to access the movement. The winding crown, fitted with the Triplock triple waterproofness system, screws down securely against the case. The crystal, with a Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock for easy reading of the date, is made of virtually scratchproof sapphire. The waterproof Oyster case provides optimum protection for the GMT-Master II’s high-precision movement.
The New Perpetual Calibre 3285
These GMT-Master II watches are equipped with the new calibre 3285, a new-generation move- ment entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. With 10 patent applications filed over the course of its development, this self-winding mechanical movement is a consummate demonstration of Rolex technology, at the forefront of the art of watchmaking. Calibre 3285 offers fundamental gains in terms of precision, power reserve, esistance to shocks and magnetic fields, convenience and reliability. It incorporates the Chronergy escapement patented by Rolex, which combines high energy ef ciency with great dependability. Made of nickel-phosphorus, this escapement is also insensitive to magnetic interference.
An optimized blue Parachrom hairspring is fitted to the oscillator, the true heart of the watch. Manufactured by Rolex in an exclusive paramagnetic alloy, it is up to 10 times more precise than a traditional hairspring in case of shocks. A Rolex overcoil ensures its regularity in any position.
Calibre 3285 is equipped with a self-winding module via a Perpetual rotor. Thanks to its new barrel architecture and the escapement’s superior efficiency, the power reserve of calibre 3285 extends to approximately 70 hours.
Jubilee And Oyster Bracelets
The new GMT-Master II with the Cerachrom insert in red and blue ceramic is fitted on an Oystersteel Jubilee bracelet. The supple and comfortable five- link Jubilee bracelet was created specially for the Oyster Perpetual Datejust at its launch in 1945.
The 18 ct Everose gold and Everose Rolesor versions are fitted on solid-link Oyster bracelets. The 18 ct Everose gold bracelet includes ceramic inserts. On the Everose Rolesor version, the centre links of the bracelet are in 18 ct Everose gold, and the outer links are in Oystersteel.
All three bracelets benefit from a concealed attachment system, ensuring seamless visual continuity between the bracelet and case. They are also equipped with an Oysterlock safety clasp to prevent accidental opening, and feature the Easylink rapid extension system, patented by Rolex in 1996, that allows the wearer to easily increase the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm for additional comfort.
Superlative Chronometer Certification
Like all Rolex watches, the GMT-Master II is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certication redefined by Rolex in 2015. This exclusive designation testi es that each watch has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories according to its own criteria, which exceed watchmaking norms and standards. The certification applies to the fully assembled watch, after casing the movement, guaranteeing superlative performance on the wrist in terms of precision, power reserve, waterproofness and self-winding. The precision of a Rolex Superlative Chronometer after casing is of the order of −2 /+2 seconds per day, or more than twice that required of an official chronometer.
The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolized by the green seal that comes with every Rolex watch and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.
The price for the Rolex GMT–Master II is CHF 8,800
