Manufacturer: Rolex Year: 1991 Reference No: 16710 Case No: X545’241 Model Name: GMT-Master II “Coke” Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 3185, 31 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Rolex Jubilee bracelet, stamped 50, end links stamped 502T, overall length 210mm Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Rolex Oyster deployant clasp stamped OP9 and 62510H Dimensions: 40mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement, and clasp signed. Accessories: Accompanied by Rolex guarantee dated September 18, 1996, stamped Wempe, green leather presentation box, polish cloth, product literature and outer packaging.
Catalogue Essay
Rolex’s GMT-Master series is one of the most recognizable models in horology, owing largely to its awe-inspiring design, fine proportions, and authentic aviation pedigree. Introduced in 1955, the collaborative effort between Rolex and Pan-American Airways led to a groundbreaking wristwatch that would become one of the most iconic timepieces in the world. In 1983, Rolex released the first GMT-Master II, the reference 16760, equipped with a thicker case, a wider bezel and larger crown guards, earning the nickname the “Fat Lady”. Three years later, Rolex introduced an upgraded GMT-Master II reference 16710 with a slimmer case and a new bezel insert featuring “black” instead of “blue”, quickly earning its nickname of the “Coke”.
The reference 16710 is a seamless and ingenious amalgamation of old and new, with a vintage look and modern technical finesse - all one could hope for in a Rolex. The present GMT-Master II “Coke” from approximately 1991 is presented in attractive, well-preserved condition.
The Wempe stamped guarantee adds to the pedigree, as does its selection within the Ride the Wave collection. Offering superb value and appeal, the present example will surely delight collectors of Rolex sports timepieces.
Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.
One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.
