The GMT-Master – Introduced in 1955, the Rolex GMT-Master was developed for Pan Am pilots navigating transatlantic routes. The original reference 6542 featured a red-blue Bakelite bezel and a fourth hand to track a second time zone—an innovation that made it a true tool watch for the jet age. Its design was both functional and iconic, setting the tone for decades to come.
In 1959, the GMT-Master 1675 brought added durability with a new aluminum bezel and crown guards. Produced for over 20 years, the 1675 saw various dial and hand updates and remains a collector favorite. By the 1980s, the GMT-Master II arrived with the 16760 “Fat Lady,” offering an independently adjustable 24-hour hand and a beefier case. This allowed for tracking three time zones, solidifying the GMT as a serious travel companion.
Over the next decades, references like the 16710 and 116710 modernized the line with sapphire crystals, updated calibers, and even ceramic bezels with the 6-digit models. Today’s models—including the beloved "Pepsi," "Batman," and "Root Beer"—carry on the legacy with advanced movements and refined designs, making the GMT-Master II a perfect blend of heritage and evolution.
