THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 16710
YEAR: 2002
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

When talking about the quintessential neo-vintage Rolex, the GMT-Master II ref. 16710 sits at the top of the list for many—and for good reason. This reference directly succeeded the 16760 “Fat Lady,” the first GMT-Master II, and carried the lineage forward with a slimmer case while retaining the cal. 3185 movement. Over its impressive 18-year production run, the 16710 saw a series of subtle yet significant updates. Between 1997 and 2000, it transitioned from tritium to Luminova and then to Super-Luminova dials. Around 2000, Rolex introduced solid end links (SEL), followed by solid cases (without lug holes) and laser-etched crowns around 2003. Finally, in 2007—its final production year—the movement was upgraded, though this is only found in Z- and M-serial watches.

Compared to the current GMT-Master II, the 16710 wears like a second skin—slender, lightweight, and incredibly comfortable. Yet it still offers all the benefits of the modern era: a sapphire crystal, quickset date, and an independently adjustable GMT hand. It also came with a choice of three bezel colour options and two bracelet styles, giving owners the flexibility to completely change up its look.

The present example dates to 2002 and features a Swiss-made Super-Luminova dial paired with a holed case and SEL bracelet—offering the best of both worlds. The watch remains in superb condition: the dial is flawless, and it sports a later non-serif bezel insert. The case is very strong, showing only minor marks, with full lugs and intact crown guards.

The original full-link bracelet has minimal stretch; the clasp code (DT) dates it to 2002. The watch comes complete with its original box, wallet, tags, booklet, and guarantee. It’s running perfectly at +3 s/d, 260 amplitude, with a beat error of just 0.1 ms.