Rolex GMT Master II "Coke" Ref 16710 Watch Review

Introducing the Iconic Rolex GMT Master II "Coke" Watch

The Rolex GMT Master II reference 16710, nicknamed the "Coke" due to its signature red and black bezel, is one of the most iconic and sought-after luxury sport watches on the market. First introduced in the 1980s as an upgrade to the ref. 1675 GMT Master, the GMT Master II brought numerous technical upgrades while retaining the rugged good looks and instant recognizability of its predecessor.

History of the GMT Master Watch

The original GMT Master was created in collaboration with Pan American Airways in 1954 to provide pilots and navigators with a dual time zone watch they could use to track Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and local time simultaneously. The watch's defining feature was its distinctive 24-hour rotatable bezel, available in blue and red to distinguish daytime from nighttime hours.

Through the 1950s and 60s, the GMT Master cemented its status as a cutting-edge tool watch for aviators and travelers. An early nickname for the model was the "Jumbo" thanks to its sports-oriented 40mm case, oversized for the time. Rolex later introduced a slew of dial, bezel and metal variations, including the blue and red "Pepsi" bezel in the 1970s.

Debut of the GMT Master II

In 1983, Rolex unveiled the GMT Master II ref. 16760, succeeding the ref. 1675. The GMT Master II represented a major technical achievement - it was one of the first Rolex watches equipped with a sapphire crystal rather than acrylic and also pioneered the use of a quickset date function alongside the separately adjustable GMT hand.

Aesthetically, the Coke GMT Master II closely resembled the former GMT Master references. It retained the 40mm Oyster case water resistant to 100 meters (330 feet) and the rugged Oyster bracelet. However, the black aluminum bezel with red 24-hour numerals was an all-new color scheme. The name "Coke" caught on almost immediately due to its resemblance to the famous Coca-Cola logo colors.

The GMT Master II Ref. 16710

In the late 1980s, Rolex introduced the GMT Master II Ref. 16710. This new reference boasted a number of technical improvements including a lacquered black gloss dial, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with Cyclops magnification lens, and a reworked Oyster bracelet with solid end links.

From a design perspective, the Coke GMT Master II Ref. 16710 hewed closely to the sleek sports watch aesthetics of the Ref. 16760. The all-steel finish provided a classic monochromatic look allowing the red and black bezel to really pop. The distinctive color scheme made the watch much more discernible at a glance than the blue and red Pepsi bezel.

Like all GMT Master watches, the Coke Ref. 16710 was crafted to meet Rolex's stringent standards for precision, reliability and durability. The 40mm case was crafted from corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel using the brand's patented Twinlock screw-down crown system for waterproofness. The sapphire crystal was virtually scratchproof. And the watch retained the rugged metal Oyster bracelet with Easylink extension system for comfort.

Discontinuation and Collectibility

Rolex discontinued the stainless steel Coke GMT Master II Ref. 16710 in 2007. For several years it was replaced with a variety of two-tone gold and steel variants. Then in 2013, Rolex reintroduced the all-steel Coke GMT but on the larger GMT Master II Ref. 116710LN with Maxi dial, upgraded bracelet and Triplock crown.

Discontinuation turned the Ref. 16710 into an instant collector's item, especially in excellent condition. Prices for the Coke GMT Master II skyrocketed on the secondary market. It has emerged as one of the most coveted references among vintage Rolex sport watches. Combining luxury and tool watch aesthetics, the Ref. 16710 perfectly encapsulates Rolex's legendary status as the ultimate aspirational timepiece.

Conclusion

With its distinctive red and black bezel, sporty styling and robust build, the Rolex GMT Master II Ref. 16710 "Coke" is a true modern classic. The unique color scheme sets it apart as one of the most instantly recognizable luxury watches ever created. Both a pragmatic dual time zone watch for globetrotting and a statement accessory, the Coke GMT Master II is a Rolex icon through and through.

FAQs

Why is the GMT Master II Ref. 16710 called the "Coke"?

The reference 16710 GMT Master II is nicknamed the "Coke" due to the colors of its bezel, which resemble the red and black Coca-Cola logo.

What makes the 16710 a special watch?

The Ref. 16710 was the first GMT Master II watch, boasting technical upgrades like a sapphire crystal and quickset date. Its black and red bezel also gave it a unique and iconic look.

When was the Coke GMT Master II produced?

Rolex produced the stainless steel Coke GMT Master II Ref. 16710 between the late 1980s and early 2000s before discontinuing it in 2007.

What movement powers the 16710?

The GMT Master II Ref. 16710 is powered by Rolex's Calibre 3185 self-winding mechanical movement with date and GMT complications.

Why is the Coke GMT so valuable today?

Discontinued Coke GMT Master II watches are highly coveted by collectors and demand extremely high prices, especially in good condition.