Two New Rolex GMT-Master II Models — Going For The Gold With A Black And Gray Bezel!
Rolex is firing on all cylinders at Watches and Wonders 2023. There are so many good releases within the heart of the lineup, and the GMT-Master II is no exception. This year, we are treated to two new variants, and both bring in one of our favorite materials — gold! The Rolesor (bi-color) 126713GRNR and full yellow gold 126718GRNR models are here.
Who doesn’t love a bit of gold on a Jubilee when it comes to the GMT-Master II? Well, I do for one, and it seems that Rolex has answered the call. If we think about the ’80s and ’90s advertisements for the GMT-Master II, pictures of a commercial pilot’s wrist complete with a black jacket and gold detailing were often complemented by a bi-color Rolex. To me, a model like the black-dialed 16713 on a Jubilee bracelet exuded class and professionalism — things we all want from a pilot. The funny thing is, that combo has been missing for some time, but it’s back, and there’s even an all-gold model for good measure. Oh, and there’s a subtle surprise in both of these watches!
Rolex GMT-Master II 126713GRNR — Rolesor
First up is the lovely GMT-Master II 126713GRNR. We have the normal 40mm stainless steel GMT, but it now comes on the sublimely comfortable Rolesor Jubilee bracelet. Keeping on theme, the bezel is in Cerachrom with 18K yellow gold knurling. The surprise — and you’ll find this on both new models — is that the ceramic is split into black and gray! Yes, Rolex has brought us another two-color bezel. Nicknames, anyone?
As you can see, the dial is black, and there are loads of gold details, such as the hands, index surrounds, and even the model name font at 6 o’clock. A quick look at the bracelet shows a lovely stripe of gold running up the middle. In both models, the faithful chronometer-rated automatic caliber 3285 works away with its 70-hour power reserve. Water resistance remains unchanged at 100 meters. Pricing is set at €16,150.
Rolex GMT-Master II 126718GRNR — 18K yellow gold
The second GMT-Master II release is the full-gold 1267718GRNR, and it’s a stunner. OK, it’s an expensive stunner! This watch is the same as the new Rolesor model, but there’s no steel to be found, just yellow gold. Like the bi-color model, it also brings in the new two-color black and gray Cerachrom bezel. Here again, all the gold detail work on the dial and hands comes into play. It’s a seriously luxurious model, and the pricing shows this at €38,200.
Final thoughts on the new GMT-Master II models
The cries for a stainless steel model with a black and red “Coke” bezel have gone unanswered once again, and the supposed leaks of a right-handed “Sprite” were, in fact, false. Instead, we have a nod to the more luxe side of the GMT-Master II. Frankly, I love these, and for whatever reason, I have come to truly enjoy the GMT-Master II on a Jubilee bracelet. It’s more comfortable for me due to the smaller links, and I have grown to dig the looks. Yes, I’d love to see an actual brown-dialed GMT again, but these are some lovely additions.
For more on the new GMT-Master II models, visit the official Rolex site.
