Rolex GMT Master II White Gold Overview
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is a luxurious and sophisticated timepiece that embodies the brand’s commitment to precision, durability, and style. It is a testament to the evolution of the GMT Master line, showcasing the brand’s continuous pursuit of innovation and refinement. This model stands out for its exquisite materials, distinctive design features, and exceptional functionality.
The History and Evolution of the Rolex GMT Master II White Gold
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is a modern interpretation of the iconic GMT Master, which was first introduced in 1954. The original GMT Master was designed for Pan Am pilots, who needed a watch that could display two time zones simultaneously. This was achieved through the use of a 24-hour bezel, which allowed pilots to track a second time zone while maintaining awareness of their local time.
The GMT Master II was introduced in 1983 and featured several improvements over its predecessor, including a larger case, a more robust movement, and a new bezel with a Cyclops magnifying lens over the date window. The introduction of the GMT Master II White Gold in 2007 marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the model, showcasing the brand’s dedication to crafting luxurious timepieces.
The Design Features of the Rolex GMT Master II White Gold
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is a striking watch that exudes elegance and sophistication. It features a 40mm case crafted from 18-karat white gold, which is both durable and hypoallergenic. The case is polished to a high sheen, giving the watch a lustrous and refined appearance.
Dial
The dial is available in a variety of colors, including black, blue, and green. The dial is adorned with luminous hour markers and hands, ensuring excellent legibility in low-light conditions. The date window is located at the 3 o’clock position and features a Cyclops magnifying lens for enhanced readability.
Bezel
The bezel is the defining feature of the GMT Master II White Gold. It is a 24-hour graduated bezel that allows the wearer to track a second time zone. The bezel is made of Cerachrom, a ceramic material that is highly resistant to scratches and fading. The bezel is also available in a variety of colors, including black, blue, and red.
Movement
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is powered by the Calibre 3186, a self-winding mechanical movement that is renowned for its precision and reliability. The movement features a Parachrom hairspring, which is made of a paramagnetic alloy that is resistant to magnetic fields. This ensures that the watch remains accurate even in the presence of strong magnetic fields. The movement also features a 50-hour power reserve, ensuring that the watch will continue to run even if it is not worn for a period of time.
The Significance of the GMT Function
The GMT function is a crucial feature of the Rolex GMT Master II White Gold. It allows the wearer to track a second time zone, which is essential for travelers, pilots, and anyone who needs to stay aware of multiple time zones. The GMT function is achieved through the use of a 24-hour bezel, which can be rotated to set a second time zone. The hour hand can then be adjusted independently to track the second time zone.
The GMT function has a wide range of applications, including:
- Traveling across multiple time zones
- Communicating with colleagues or clients in different time zones
- Scheduling meetings or appointments across time zones
- Monitoring stock markets or other financial markets in different time zones
- Piloting aircraft or other vehicles
Technical Specifications
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is a sophisticated timepiece built with precision engineering and high-quality materials. Its technical specifications showcase its intricate design and functionality, making it a sought-after watch for both collectors and everyday wearers.
Case and Dimensions
The case of the Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is crafted from 18k white gold, known for its durability and luxurious appearance. It features a 40mm diameter, making it a comfortable size for most wrists. The case is also water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), allowing for use in various water-related activities.
Movement
The heart of the Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is its self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 3186. This movement is renowned for its precision and reliability, with a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. It features a Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, which is highly resistant to magnetic fields and temperature variations, ensuring accurate timekeeping. The movement has 31 jewels, contributing to its smooth operation and long lifespan. The frequency of the balance wheel is 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz).
Functions
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold features a variety of functions, including:
- Hour, minute, and second hands: These hands display the current time in the local time zone.
- GMT hand: This hand displays the time in a second time zone, often used for travelers or those who work across multiple time zones.
- 24-hour graduated bezel: The rotating bezel allows for easy setting of the GMT hand and can be used to track a second time zone or elapsed time.
- Date window: Located at the 3 o’clock position, the date window displays the current date.
- Triplock winding crown: This triple-sealed crown ensures water resistance and protects the movement from dust and moisture.
Variations and Editions
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is a highly sought-after timepiece, and over the years, Rolex has introduced several variations and editions to cater to different tastes and preferences. These variations encompass different dial colors, bezel materials, and limited-edition collaborations.
Variations and Editions of the Rolex GMT Master II White Gold
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is available in a variety of variations, each with its own unique design elements and features.
- Rolex GMT Master II White Gold with Black Dial and Black Cerachrom Bezel: This is the most common variation of the GMT Master II White Gold. It features a black dial with white gold hour markers and hands, and a black Cerachrom bezel with a 24-hour graduated scale. The Cerachrom bezel is made of ceramic, which is highly scratch-resistant and fade-resistant. This variation is also known as the “Pepsi” GMT Master II White Gold, due to its red and blue bezel insert.
- Rolex GMT Master II White Gold with Blue Dial and Blue Cerachrom Bezel: This variation features a blue dial with white gold hour markers and hands, and a blue Cerachrom bezel with a 24-hour graduated scale. The blue Cerachrom bezel is also made of ceramic and is highly scratch-resistant and fade-resistant.
- Rolex GMT Master II White Gold with Green Dial and Green Cerachrom Bezel: This variation features a green dial with white gold hour markers and hands, and a green Cerachrom bezel with a 24-hour graduated scale. The green Cerachrom bezel is also made of ceramic and is highly scratch-resistant and fade-resistant.
- Rolex GMT Master II White Gold with Brown Dial and Brown Cerachrom Bezel: This variation features a brown dial with white gold hour markers and hands, and a brown Cerachrom bezel with a 24-hour graduated scale. The brown Cerachrom bezel is also made of ceramic and is highly scratch-resistant and fade-resistant.
Limited Editions and Collaborations
Rolex has also released several limited-edition variations of the GMT Master II White Gold, including collaborations with organizations and individuals.
- Rolex GMT Master II White Gold “Batman”: This limited-edition variation features a black and blue Cerachrom bezel, a black dial, and a blue GMT hand. It was released in 2019 and is a highly sought-after collector’s item.
- Rolex GMT Master II White Gold “Root Beer”: This limited-edition variation features a brown and black Cerachrom bezel, a brown dial, and a black GMT hand. It was released in 2018 and is also a highly sought-after collector’s item.
- Rolex GMT Master II White Gold “Coke”: This limited-edition variation features a red and black Cerachrom bezel, a black dial, and a red GMT hand. It was released in 2017 and is a highly sought-after collector’s item.
Comparison of Variations
| Model Number | Dial Color | Bezel Material | Price (USD) |
|—|—|—|—|
| 116719BLRO | Black | Black Cerachrom | $35,000 |
| 116719BLNR | Blue | Blue Cerachrom | $35,000 |
| 116719BLGR | Green | Green Cerachrom | $35,000 |
| 116719BLBR | Brown | Brown Cerachrom | $35,000 |
| 126719BLRO | Black | Black Cerachrom | $40,000 |
| 126719BLNR | Blue | Blue Cerachrom | $40,000 |
| 126719BLGR | Green | Green Cerachrom | $40,000 |
| 126719BLBR | Brown | Brown Cerachrom | $40,000 |
Rolex GMT Master II White Gold in Pop Culture: Rolex Gmt White Gold
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold, with its blend of luxury and functionality, has transcended its status as a timepiece and become a symbol of sophistication and achievement in popular culture. Its appearance in movies, television shows, and music videos has solidified its image as a watch for those who appreciate both style and substance.
Notable Appearances in Pop Culture
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold has graced the wrists of some of the most recognizable figures in pop culture, solidifying its association with success and influence. These appearances have not only showcased the watch’s elegance but have also contributed to its enduring appeal.
- In the 2013 James Bond film “Skyfall,” Daniel Craig’s portrayal of the iconic British secret agent features a Rolex GMT Master II White Gold. This choice underscores Bond’s preference for both functionality and luxury, reflecting his status as a sophisticated and capable individual.
- The popular television series “Suits” has featured the Rolex GMT Master II White Gold on the wrist of Harvey Specter, played by Gabriel Macht. The watch perfectly complements Specter’s character, highlighting his ambition, success, and unwavering confidence.
- The late rapper and fashion icon, Virgil Abloh, was often seen wearing a Rolex GMT Master II White Gold. Abloh’s appreciation for the watch’s craftsmanship and its ability to seamlessly blend luxury and practicality aligned with his own design philosophy.
Appearance | Context | Significance |
---|---|---|
“Skyfall” (2013) | Worn by James Bond, portrayed by Daniel Craig. | Highlights Bond’s preference for both functionality and luxury, reflecting his status as a sophisticated and capable individual. |
“Suits” (2011-2019) | Worn by Harvey Specter, played by Gabriel Macht. | The watch perfectly complements Specter’s character, highlighting his ambition, success, and unwavering confidence. |
Virgil Abloh’s personal collection | Worn by the late rapper and fashion icon. | Abloh’s appreciation for the watch’s craftsmanship and its ability to seamlessly blend luxury and practicality aligned with his own design philosophy. |
Collecting and Investment
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is not just a watch; it’s a coveted collectible and a potential investment piece. Its combination of luxury materials, sophisticated design, and enduring popularity makes it a desirable asset for watch enthusiasts and investors alike.
Factors Influencing Market Price
The market price of a Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is influenced by several factors, including its condition, rarity, and historical significance.
- Condition: The condition of the watch is paramount. A pristine, unworn example with original box and papers commands a premium price. Conversely, watches with scratches, dents, or signs of wear will be valued lower.
- Rarity: Limited edition models, special releases, or watches with unique features are highly sought after by collectors. These rare variations can significantly increase the watch’s value. For example, the “Pepsi” bezel version with its red and blue color scheme is highly collectible.
- Historical Significance: Watches with a connection to a notable event or figure can command a substantial premium. For instance, a Rolex GMT Master II White Gold worn by a celebrity or a watch with a significant historical association would be highly prized.
Investment Potential, Rolex gmt white gold
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold has a proven track record of holding its value and even appreciating over time. Its popularity, limited production, and high demand make it a solid investment option.
- Brand Reputation: Rolex is renowned for its craftsmanship, durability, and prestige. The brand’s strong reputation contributes to the long-term value of its watches.
- Limited Production: Rolex produces a limited number of its white gold models each year, creating scarcity and increasing demand. This limited supply contributes to the watch’s value appreciation.
- Historical Appreciation: Rolex watches have consistently appreciated in value over the years, particularly those in excellent condition. The GMT Master II White Gold, with its enduring popularity and desirability, is expected to continue this trend.
“The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is a timeless investment piece that combines luxury, functionality, and historical significance. Its value is likely to continue to appreciate in the years to come.”
Rolex GMT Master II White Gold vs. Other Models
The Rolex GMT Master II White Gold is a luxurious and highly sought-after timepiece, but it’s not the only option for those seeking a GMT Master II. This section will compare the white gold model to other Rolex GMT Master II models, highlighting their similarities and differences, and discussing the pros and cons of each.
Comparison of Rolex GMT Master II Models
The Rolex GMT Master II is available in a range of materials, dial colors, and bezel configurations, offering a wide selection to suit different tastes and budgets. The following table compares the Rolex GMT Master II White Gold model to other popular Rolex GMT Master II models, focusing on key characteristics:
Model | Case Material | Dial Color | Bezel | Price (Approximate) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Rolex GMT Master II White Gold | 18k White Gold | Black, Blue, Green, Brown, etc. | Cerachrom Bezel (various colors) | $35,000 – $50,000+ |
Rolex GMT Master II Steel | Stainless Steel | Black, Blue, Green, etc. | Cerachrom Bezel (various colors) | $10,000 – $15,000+ |
Rolex GMT Master II Everose Gold | 18k Everose Gold | Black, Brown, etc. | Cerachrom Bezel (various colors) | $25,000 – $35,000+ |
Rolex GMT Master II Two-Tone | Stainless Steel and 18k Yellow Gold | Black, Blue, Green, etc. | Cerachrom Bezel (various colors) | $15,000 – $20,000+ |
Pros and Cons of Each Model
Each Rolex GMT Master II model offers its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages, which are summarized below:
Rolex GMT Master II White Gold
- Pros:
- Prestigious and luxurious appearance
- Exceptional durability and scratch resistance
- High resale value
- Cons:
- High price point
- May be less versatile than other models due to its precious metal construction
Rolex GMT Master II Steel
- Pros:
- More affordable than other models
- Durable and robust
- Versatile and suitable for everyday wear
- Cons:
- May be less luxurious than other models
- May be more prone to scratches than precious metal models
Rolex GMT Master II Everose Gold
- Pros:
- Unique and elegant rose gold finish
- Durable and scratch-resistant
- High resale value
- Cons:
- Higher price point than stainless steel models
- May be less versatile than other models due to its precious metal construction
Rolex GMT Master II Two-Tone
- Pros:
- Combines the durability of stainless steel with the luxury of gold
- More affordable than solid gold models
- Unique and eye-catching design
- Cons:
- May be less versatile than other models due to its two-tone construction
- May be more prone to scratches than solid gold models
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