Rolex GMT-Master 16700

Reference 16700 is the final model produced under the ‘GMT-Master’ designation, manufactured from approximately 1988 to 1999. It is a transitional reference that combines modern materials with original GMT functionality. The watch is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3175, a COSC-certified automatic movement technically significant for introducing a quickset date function to the GMT-Master line. However, it retains the classic GMT complication where the 24-hour hand is synchronized with the 12-hour hand. The 40mm stainless steel case was the first GMT-Master to be fitted with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and featured an anodized aluminum bezel insert (in red/blue ‘Pepsi’ or black). A key technical variation for collectors is the luminous material, which transitioned from tritium to LumiNova around 1998.