Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 16710: The Unexpected Collector's Choice

The Rolex Submariner reference 14060 represents a transitional period for the brand's professional dive watch line. It is notable for being a no-date Submariner, maintaining a clean dial aesthetic favored by many collectors. This reference succeeded earlier no-date Submariners and preceded later iterations with updated movements and materials, positioning it as a bridge between vintage and modern Rolex production.

This reference features a 40mm stainless steel Oyster case, characteristic of the Submariner line. It is equipped with the automatic caliber 3000 movement, providing a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. The watch utilizes a sapphire crystal, offering enhanced scratch resistance, and is water-resistant to 300 meters. The unidirectional rotating bezel is fitted with an aluminum insert.

The 14060 appeals to collectors seeking a Submariner without the date complication and its associated cyclops lens. It is recognized for its robust construction and functional design. While sharing many characteristics with its date-equipped counterparts, the absence of a date window distinguishes it within the Submariner family and contributes to its distinct collector appeal.

The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 16710 represents a significant evolution in the brand's dual time zone offerings, succeeding the reference 16760. It maintained the core functionality of displaying two time zones simultaneously, distinguishing itself through a slimmer case profile compared to its predecessor and the introduction of different bezel insert options. This reference was produced for an extended period, allowing for various dial and bezel configurations that are of interest to collectors. It is a transitional model that bridges earlier five-digit references with modern six-digit iterations.

This reference features a 40 mm stainless steel case, housing the automatic caliber 3185, which provides a power reserve of 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, contributing to its water resistance of 100 meters. The bidirectional rotating bezel, often seen with a Pepsi (red and blue) aluminum insert, allows for tracking a third time zone. The dial is black, and the watch is typically paired with a steel Oyster bracelet.

For collectors, the 16710 is notable for its versatility and the variations available throughout its production run, including different luminova types on the dial and the availability of black, Coke (black and red), and Pepsi bezel inserts. Its position as a robust and functional tool watch, combined with its classic proportions and the reliability of its movement, makes it a frequently sought-after reference. It appeals to those who appreciate the traditional aesthetic of Rolex's GMT-Master II line before the introduction of ceramic bezels and larger cases.