Vintage
Reintitan shares a deeply personal story about his entry into Rolex collecting, highlighting the unexpected generosity of a forum friend, Jocke. This narrative not only captures the spirit of community among watch enthusiasts but also offers a unique glimpse into the Rolex market and collector preferences nearly two decades ago.
The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 16710 represents a significant evolution in the brand's dual time zone offerings, succeeding the reference 16760. It maintained the core functionality of displaying two time zones simultaneously, distinguishing itself through a slimmer case profile compared to its predecessor and the introduction of different bezel insert options. This reference was produced for an extended period, allowing for various dial and bezel configurations that are of interest to collectors. It is a transitional model that bridges earlier five-digit references with modern six-digit iterations.
This reference features a 40 mm stainless steel case, housing the automatic caliber 3185, which provides a power reserve of 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, contributing to its water resistance of 100 meters. The bidirectional rotating bezel, often seen with a Pepsi (red and blue) aluminum insert, allows for tracking a third time zone. The dial is black, and the watch is typically paired with a steel Oyster bracelet.
For collectors, the 16710 is notable for its versatility and the variations available throughout its production run, including different luminova types on the dial and the availability of black, Coke (black and red), and Pepsi bezel inserts. Its position as a robust and functional tool watch, combined with its classic proportions and the reliability of its movement, makes it a frequently sought-after reference. It appeals to those who appreciate the traditional aesthetic of Rolex's GMT-Master II line before the introduction of ceramic bezels and larger cases.
Back then the 1675 I wanted was the matte-dialed, big arrow hand model from the late 1970s. Today I want the gilt-dialed, small arrow hand, square crown guards version from the mid-1960s. I guess over time my tastes have gotten refined
which is still out of my reach for now But some day...
Btw, did you buy a GMT at that time?
This hobby is al about community and sharing it doesn't get any better. Thanks for the story and thank to Jocke for being a friend to us all. Bill
It had one of the very early Luminova service dials which still read T - < 25 on the bottom (as they were from left-over dial stock that had not had any luminous applied yet). In fact, I think I was one of the first to notice this and it was when I posted my discovery on VRF that the flood-gates opened on the T - < 25 Luminova service dials for Red Subs, Double Red SDs, and even Mil-Subs. They ran out quickly after that and Rolex stopped making them as you can imagine. They got replaced wi
I met you in 2009 and that’s almost 9 years ago. I was just starting my collection beginning with Pams. Why Pam? Because of the community and the strap change culture. And that’s where I met you. All of those Pam collections are now gone, replaced by the Rolexes and the you know what. Even the first Seamaster that I bought in 2002 (your Rolex catalogue) reminded my first foray to an expensive Swiss watch) was also gone. But the memory of the community and the friendship lingers on. Have a great
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