Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II

Perfect for Criss-crossing the Globe

The cosmopolitan watch par excellence, the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II allows travellers to read the time in two different time zones simul – taneously. Precise, reliable, robust and functional, it is a reference among watches with multiple time zones.

Rolex introduced three new versions of the GMT-Master II with a brand new movement, the new-generation calibre 3285, and a new image. The first new version, in Oystersteel, combines an Oyster case and Jubilee bracelet with a bidirectional rotatable bezel and a 24-hour graduated two-colourCerachrom insert in red and blue ceramic. Two further versions bring 18 ctEverose gold to the GMT-Master II range, along with a two-colourCerachrom insert in brown and black ceramic.

In function as well as in name, the GMT-Master II evokes intercontinental travel across time zones. Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) marks mean solar time at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London – the historic location of the official prime meridian used for calculating longitude and determining different time zones around the world. In addition to conventional hour, minute and seconds hands, which display the local time (the time in the wearer’s current location), the GMT-Master II features an arrow-tipped hand which circles the dial once every 24 hours, as well as a bidirectional rotatable bezel and a 24-hour graduated Cerachrom insert in coloured ceramic. When the bezel is in the neutral position, that is with the triangle at 12 o’clock, the 24-hour hand displays the reference time (home time, for example), which can be read using the graduations on the bezel.

When abroad, travellers can set the local time easily, with the hour hand “jumping” from hour to hour thanks to a mechanism operated via the winding crown. The adjustment can be made independently of the minute and seconds hands, and without affecting the 24-hour hand. As a result, travellers can simultaneously read their local time as well as the time “back home”. The time in an alternative time zone can be displayed by turning the rotatable bezel. In thiscase, the reference time is no longer shown, as it is the alternative time zone that is now read via the 24-hour hand against the graduations on the bezel. The bezel was carefully designed to ideally fulfil its function. Rolex developed a bezel rotation system with a spring that allows the bezel to be turned crisply and securely in either direction and locate with a positive click in each of the 24 different hour positions.

Launched in 1955, the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master witnessed the rapid expansion of intercontinental travel in the latter half of the 20th century. It even became the official watch of Pan American World Airways, better known worldwide as Pan Am, the most prominent American intercontinental airline at the time. In 1959, a major event marked the partnership: the first non-stop Pan Am Jet Clipper flight from New York to Moscow. The captain was wearing a GMT-Master, which was used as a navigation aid during the flight.

A new look

The first of the new GMT-Master II versions introduced in 2018 is in Oystersteel. It is fitted onto a five-link Jubilee bracelet, and has a bidirectional rotatable bezel and a 24-hour graduated two-colourCerachrom insert in red and blue ceramic, calling to mind the colours used on the original GMT-Master in 1955. It is the first time that the Jubilee bracelet, Oystersteel and the two-colourCerachrom insert in red and blue ceramic have been brought together on the GMT-Master II.

Two further new versions introduce 18 ctEverose gold to the GMT-Master II range. One is made entirely from 18 ctEverose gold, while the other is an EveroseRolesor version – combining Oystersteel and 18 ctEverose gold. Both watches are equipped with a 24-hour graduated two-colourCerachrom insert in a black and a newly developed brown ceramic. On the dial, the GMT-Master II inscription is in powdered rose. All three new versions have black lacquer dials. The highly legible Chromalight hands and hour markers (long-lasting luminescence, blue glow) are in 18 ct white or pink gold. On the Oystersteel version the 24-hour hand is coated with red lacquer.

The bracelets on the new GMT-Master II are equipped with the Easylink rapid extension sys – tem. This system, patented by Rolex in 1996, allows the wearer to increase the bracelet length by 5 mm, providing additional comfort. They are also fitted with an Oysterlock safety clasp, a sophisticated mechanism that prevents accidental opening. The bracelets also benefit from a concealed attachment system, ensuring seamless visual continuity between the bracelet and case. The GMT-Master II, Superlative Chronometer Like all Rolex watches, the GMT-Master II is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certifi – cation. This exclusive designation testifies that each watch has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own labora – tories according to its own criteria, which exceed watchmaking norms and standards. The certifica – tion applies to the fully assembled watch, after casing the movement, guaranteeing superlative performance on the wrist.

 

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