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The Rolex GMT-Master 16700 is the last classic GMT-Master: a 40 mm steel travel watch with a sapphire crystal and caliber 3175. Its defining trade-off is its traditional linked local-hour and 24-hour hands, paired with a quickset date. If you want to change local time independently while traveling, the GMT-Master II 16710 is the more direct tool; if you prefer the original GMT-Master setting logic, the 16700 makes a compelling vintage choice.
What is the Rolex GMT-Master 16700?
The 16700 succeeded the 16750 and is generally described as the final reference in the classic GMT-Master line. Sotheby’s and Bucherer place its production from 1988 to 1999, while a more recent secondary guide gives 1988–1998. The commonly cited range is therefore 1988–1999, but the exact final production year is not settled across these accounts, and no definitive Rolex production total or cutoff is established.
Sotheby’s auction catalogue describes the watch this way: “The Rolex GMT-Master reference 16700 superseded the 16750 and enjoyed a rather long production run spanning between 1988 and 1999.” That is catalogue wording, not a statement attributed to a Rolex representative.
How the 16700 works—and how it differs from the 16710
The 16700 uses caliber 3175. Its local-hour and 24-hour GMT hands are linked rather than independently adjustable; the movement also provides a quickset date and hacking seconds. In practical terms, the 16700 follows the classic “caller” arrangement: set the watch to a reference time and use the 24-hour hand to track another time zone.
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- VERIFY YOUR WATCH MODEL & MEASURE THE CORRECT SIZE USING A RULER – Watch Parts Are Model and Size Specific. Please Verify Compatibility Before Purchasing.
- Perfect Fit for Rolex GMT: High-quality aftermarket replacement insert with silver letters in Black/Red (Coke) for Rolex GMT Master I & II. Fits models 16700, 16710, 16718, 16760, and others with sapphire crystal.
- Perfect Fit for Rolex GMT: Designed to fit Rolex GMT watches precisely. The insert snaps securely into place on the bezel without glue, ensuring a clean installation that won't damage your watch.
- Easy Installation: Snaps into place securely without glue. This design avoids the mess and potential damage of adhesive, ensuring a seamless fit and preserving the integrity of your Rolex GMT.
- Avoid Glue Mess: This insert fits perfectly without the need for adhesive, preventing potential damage and saving you from costly repairs. Enjoy a hassle-free replacement with no glue residue.
The GMT-Master II 16710 offers a different travel-time behavior: its local-hour hand can be adjusted independently. That makes changing the displayed local time during a trip more direct, without changing the GMT hand’s reference time.
| Comparison | GMT-Master 16700 | GMT-Master II 16710 |
|---|---|---|
| Role in the line | Final classic GMT-Master reference | Contemporary GMT-Master II sibling |
| Time setting | Linked local-hour and GMT hands; quickset date | Independently adjustable local-hour hand |
| Movement identified in the cited histories | Caliber 3175 | A different GMT-Master II caliber family; the cited histories focus on the model distinction rather than a specific caliber |
| Buyer’s decision | Choose if you prefer the linked-hand operation and classic GMT-Master identity | Choose if independent local-hour adjustment better suits your travel routine |
These are functional differences, not a universal value ranking. The cited sources do not establish a controlled current-price comparison between the two references.
Rank #2
- Pre-Loved Condition: Excellent; Light scratching and tarnishing throughout hardware
- Made in Switzerland
- Flip-lock clasp
- Signature upon delivery required
Specifications and documented variants
| Feature | What the cited sources report |
|---|---|
| Case | Stainless steel; Sotheby’s 2020 auction listing gives a 40 mm diameter |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Movement | Rolex caliber 3175, with quickset date and hacking seconds |
| Water resistance | 100 m/330 ft is stated by a secondary reference guide as the original reference specification; it does not establish the condition of an individual vintage watch |
| Bezel colors | Red and blue (“Pepsi”) or black are documented |
| Dial lume | A secondary reference account reports tritium through U-series examples around 1997 and Luminova from around 1998, with transitional and service variations |
| Bracelet example | Bonhams describes a 78360 Oyster bracelet on its circa-1988 lot; that detail does not establish what bracelet or clasp is original to every watch |
Reported lume timelines and dial text can help frame an inspection, but neither alone proves that a dial is original to its case. Serial dating, service history, and the specific watch’s configuration need to be considered together.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check before buying a 16700
Vintage condition and originality vary from watch to watch. Request clear photographs and records that identify the reference, dial and lume, bezel insert, bracelet and clasp, and any replaced service components. Have a qualified watchmaker or trusted specialist examine the individual watch; a reference-level water-resistance figure is not evidence that an aged example remains water resistant.
Rank #3
- Material: Aluminum
- LACAK Aluminum Watch Bezel Insert Compatible with Rolex GMT-Master II 16710 Watch
- Product Compatible with Model Number: 16710A; 16710B; 16710N; 16700; 16750; 1675; 18046...
- Package Quantity: 1 piece
- Note: This watch accessories is a premium, brand-new aftermarket substitute. Kindly avoid confusing it with an authentic original part.
- Confirm that the case, dial, hands, bezel insert, and bracelet are described accurately, including any known replacements.
- Ask for service records and details of work or parts changes; do not assume that a service component is incorrect or original without documentation.
- Have the watch’s condition and water resistance evaluated before relying on it around water.
- Compare the specific watch’s completeness and condition rather than treating another auction lot as a direct equivalent.
Auction records provide dated examples, not a current valuation. Bonhams’ 2020 catalogue estimated its circa-1988 16700 at £7,000–9,000 / €7,800–10,000 / US$8,800–11,000. Those figures were an estimate, not a recorded sale price, and should not be used as a 2026 asking-price benchmark.
Is the 16700 a wrist game or a crying shame?
The 16700 is a strong fit for someone who wants the final classic GMT-Master, a sapphire crystal, and quickset-date convenience without giving up the linked-hand GMT arrangement. It is less suitable for a traveler whose priority is independently advancing or retreating the local-hour hand. Judge any candidate on its documented configuration and present condition, not an assumed production rarity: a reliable Rolex production total has not been established in the cited accounts.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
