The Rolex GMT-Master II is the world’s most iconic traveler’s watch. Created for professional aviators in 1955, it allows the wearer to simultaneously track two time zones — essential for anyone who crosses international borders. Today, it’s also one of the most visually distinctive and culturally significant watches ever made, known for its colorful two-tone bezels and extraordinary secondary market values.
History of the GMT-Master
In the early 1950s, Pan American Airways approached Rolex to develop a watch that would help their long-haul pilots track both their home time zone and local time at their destination. The result, launched in 1955, was the GMT-Master with its revolutionary 24-hour bezel allowing two time zones to be read simultaneously. Pan Am issued these watches to their entire fleet of pilots, cementing the GMT-Master’s place in aviation history.
The GMT-Master II arrived in 1982 with the introduction of the quick-set hour hand, allowing the 12-hour hand to be set independently from the movement — making it possible to track three time zones simultaneously. This innovation made it even more versatile for international travelers.
The Famous GMT-Master II Bezels
“Pepsi” (Red/Blue) — Ref. 126710BLRO
The Pepsi bezel is the original GMT-Master colorway and the most beloved. The red (day) and blue (night) bicolor bezel evokes the classic aviation and global exploration aesthetic. After years without a stainless steel Pepsi (Rolex only offered the Pepsi in white gold between 2007-2018), the reintroduction on the Jubilee bracelet (ref. 126710BLRO) in 2018 created extraordinary demand. Secondary market: $16,000-$22,000+. Retail is ~$10,200 but availability is extremely limited.
“Batman” (Black/Blue) — Ref. 116710BLNR (Discontinued)
The Batman (black and blue bezel) was introduced in 2013 and immediately became a sensation. Discontinued in 2019 and replaced by the Batman II on Jubilee (126710BLNR), the original Batman on Oyster bracelet has become a collector’s piece. Secondary market for the original: $13,000-$17,000+. The newer “Batman II” (126710BLNR) trades at similar levels.
“Sprite” (Green/Black) — Ref. 126720VTNR
Unveiled in 2022, the Sprite (green and black bezel) features a reversed setting — the GMT hand reads counter-clockwise — making it the first “left-handed” GMT-Master II. This innovation was controversial but made it more comfortable for left-handed wearers. The combination of the green ceramic bezel with Jubilee bracelet creates a stunning aesthetic. Being new to market, secondary values are still establishing, typically $13,000-$16,000+.
“Root Beer” (Brown/Black) — Ref. 126711CHNR in Rolesor
The Root Beer colorway (brown/black bezel) on the two-tone Rolesor (Oystersteel and Everose gold) version is one of the most striking two-tone sports watches ever made. The warm brown ceramic combined with rose gold accents creates an unmistakable look. This is typically priced at retail around $15,050 and trades at significant premium in the secondary market.
How the GMT Function Works
The GMT-Master II uses a separate 24-hour hand (often called the GMT hand) that makes one complete revolution every 24 hours. The bi-directional rotating 24-hour graduated bezel allows you to:
- Read Home Time: Set the 24-hour GMT hand to your home time zone using the bezel. The red (or marked) section indicates day/AM, the blue section indicates night/PM.
- Read Local Time: The regular 12-hour hand and dial show local time.
- Set a Third Zone: The bezel can be independently rotated to display a third time zone reference.
GMT-Master II vs Other Dual-Timezone Watches
GMT-Master II vs. Patek Philippe World Time: The Patek displays all 24 time zones simultaneously but is purely a dress watch. The GMT-Master II is a rugged sports watch with 100m water resistance, better suited for actual travel.
GMT-Master II vs. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean GMT: The Omega is an excellent alternative at a lower price point, but the Rolex has superior secondary market value retention and far greater brand recognition globally.
Buying Pre-Owned GMT-Master II
When buying a pre-owned GMT-Master II, pay special attention to:
- Bezel condition: The ceramic bezel is scratch-resistant but can chip. Check carefully at the edges.
- Bracelet and clasp: The Jubilee bracelet can accumulate stretch over time. Check for excessive play.
- Crown function: Test all three crown positions — winding, date set, and time set.
- GMT hand function: Make sure the hour hand sets independently (on GMT-Master II — not possible on original GMT-Master).
Shop Pre-Owned Rolex GMT-Master II
Vitec Luxury offers a carefully curated selection of pre-owned Rolex GMT-Master II watches — Pepsi, Batman, and more. Every watch is fully authenticated and priced competitively.
