1988 Rolex GMT-Master Cream Lume Unpolished (Ref. 16700)
- Worth A Read
- Specifications
- Condition
History and Significance
The Rolex GMT-Master 16700 sits in an interesting transitional period for Rolex sports watches. Produced alongside the early GMT-Master II references, the 16700 was the final evolution of the original GMT-Master line before Rolex discontinued the model entirely in favor of the independently adjustable GMT-Master II. Because of that, the 16700 carries a slightly simpler and more traditional feel compared to later GMT references.
This example retains many of the traits collectors actively look for today. The glossy black tritium dial has aged beautifully, with the lume plots developing a warm cream tone that contrasts naturally against the faded red and blue Pepsi bezel. The thinner case profile of the 16700 also gives it a noticeably lighter and more balanced feel on the wrist compared to modern ceramic GMTs.
Equally important is the condition. The case appears unpolished with thick lugs, strong crown guards, and crisp factory finishing still visible throughout. The bezel retains strong color saturation, while the bracelet shows honest wear consistent with age. Watches like this have become increasingly difficult to find, especially examples that still preserve their original geometry and vintage tritium character.
Writer's Thoughts
The 16700 has always felt like the last truly vintage GMT-Master to me. It still carries the charm of older matte dial references, but with the practicality of a sapphire crystal and modern movement. The cream lume against the glossy black dial gives the watch a softer look that modern GMTs just do not replicate.
Our Promise
Every watch is carefully inspected, fully vetted, and described with full transparency. This Rolex is guaranteed authentic and comes backed by our commitment to honesty, quality, and trust.
Brand: Rolex
Model: GMT-Master (Ref. 16700)
Year: 1988
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Size: 40mm
Bezel: Red and blue “Pepsi” 24-hour bezel
Dial: Gloss black tritium dial with cream lume plots
Movement: Automatic GMT
Strap/Bracelet: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Buckle/Clasp: Rolex Oyster clasp
Contents: Watch only
Case: Unpolished with thick lugs, sharp crown guards, and strong finishing throughout; light surface wear and hairlines consistent with age and use.
Dial: Excellent overall condition with attractive cream tritium lume and clean glossy surface.
Hands: Original tritium hands with matching warm lume coloration.
Crystal: Clean overall with no visible wear, just some light scratches.
Strap/Bracelet: Rolex Oyster bracelet remains in strong overall condition with little stretch and honest wear consistent with age.
Buckle/Clasp: Original Rolex clasp showing surface wear and scratches from use.
1988 Rolex GMT-Master Cream Lume Unpolished (Ref. 16700)
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- Worth A Read
- Specifications
- Condition
History and Significance
The Rolex GMT-Master 16700 sits in an interesting transitional period for Rolex sports watches. Produced alongside the early GMT-Master II references, the 16700 was the final evolution of the original GMT-Master line before Rolex discontinued the model entirely in favor of the independently adjustable GMT-Master II. Because of that, the 16700 carries a slightly simpler and more traditional feel compared to later GMT references.
This example retains many of the traits collectors actively look for today. The glossy black tritium dial has aged beautifully, with the lume plots developing a warm cream tone that contrasts naturally against the faded red and blue Pepsi bezel. The thinner case profile of the 16700 also gives it a noticeably lighter and more balanced feel on the wrist compared to modern ceramic GMTs.
Equally important is the condition. The case appears unpolished with thick lugs, strong crown guards, and crisp factory finishing still visible throughout. The bezel retains strong color saturation, while the bracelet shows honest wear consistent with age. Watches like this have become increasingly difficult to find, especially examples that still preserve their original geometry and vintage tritium character.
Writer's Thoughts
The 16700 has always felt like the last truly vintage GMT-Master to me. It still carries the charm of older matte dial references, but with the practicality of a sapphire crystal and modern movement. The cream lume against the glossy black dial gives the watch a softer look that modern GMTs just do not replicate.
Our Promise
Every watch is carefully inspected, fully vetted, and described with full transparency. This Rolex is guaranteed authentic and comes backed by our commitment to honesty, quality, and trust.
Brand: Rolex
Model: GMT-Master (Ref. 16700)
Year: 1988
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Size: 40mm
Bezel: Red and blue “Pepsi” 24-hour bezel
Dial: Gloss black tritium dial with cream lume plots
Movement: Automatic GMT
Strap/Bracelet: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Buckle/Clasp: Rolex Oyster clasp
Contents: Watch only
Case: Unpolished with thick lugs, sharp crown guards, and strong finishing throughout; light surface wear and hairlines consistent with age and use.
Dial: Excellent overall condition with attractive cream tritium lume and clean glossy surface.
Hands: Original tritium hands with matching warm lume coloration.
Crystal: Clean overall with no visible wear, just some light scratches.
Strap/Bracelet: Rolex Oyster bracelet remains in strong overall condition with little stretch and honest wear consistent with age.
Buckle/Clasp: Original Rolex clasp showing surface wear and scratches from use.