Rolex GMT-Master II
Reference Guide

Rolex GMT-Master II "Root Beer" Models Overview

By quattro · Mar 31, 2025 · 15 replies
quattro
WPS member · Rolex forum
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Emmanuel, known as quattro on WatchProSite, provides a detailed visual and technical overview of the iconic Rolex GMT-Master 'Root Beer' models. His post meticulously chronicles the evolution of this distinctive two-tone aesthetic, highlighting key reference numbers and their unique characteristics. This exploration offers invaluable context for collectors interested in the heritage and nuances of these beloved GMT references.

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The warm color scheme of these Rolex GMT models has always felt attractive to me (especially the three first variants, with a brownish dial).

Have a nice week!

Best, Emmanuel


1/ Ref. 1675/3 (1970): 40 mm case, steel & yellow gold, brown matte dial, applied gold coronet, 'nipple' indexes, caliber 1575 (19,800vph)







credit: bazamu watches (1) & bulang & sons (2-3)


2/ Ref. 16753 (1980): 40 mm case, steel & yellow gold, brown 'tiger eye' dial, printed coronet, 'nipple' indexes, caliber 3075 with quickset date (28,800vph)





credit: borneo bulletin & @pandlwatchcollection


3/ Ref. 16713 (1989, discontinued 2006): 40 mm case, steel & yellow gold, brown sunburst dial, caliber 3185 with independent setting of the 12-hour hand (3 time zones), round luminous markers with yellow gold surrounds







credit: amsterdam watch company


4/ Ref. 126711CHNR (steel & Everose gold) & 126715CHNR (full Everose case, bracelet & bezel) (2018): 40 mm case, black dial, Cerachrom bezel insert, caliber 3285





credit: watch vault






credit: @cobra003 on reddit & petite Genève petrović 

About the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 16713

The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 16713 is a two-tone variant of the updated GMT-Master II line, succeeding earlier GMT-Master references that also featured Rolesor construction. This reference introduced the quickset hour hand, allowing for independent adjustment of the local time without stopping the movement, a key feature distinguishing the GMT-Master II from its predecessor. It maintained the dual time zone functionality with a rotating 24-hour bezel, offering practicality for travelers.

This reference features a 40 mm Oyster case crafted from stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, commonly known as Rolesor. It is equipped with the automatic Caliber 3175, which provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers a water resistance of 100 meters. The bidirectional rotating bezel is fitted with an aluminum insert, typically in a brown and black combination.

The 16713 appeals to collectors interested in the transitional period of the GMT-Master line, bridging the gap between the vintage aesthetic and modern functionality. Its two-tone construction and often brown dial variants, sometimes referred to as 'Root Beer' or 'Tiger Eye' depending on the specific dial finish, offer a distinct visual character. This reference represents a significant evolution in the GMT-Master series, incorporating technical advancements while retaining the classic design elements.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal. 3175
Case
Stainless steel and yellow gold (Rolesor)
Diameter
40 mm
Dial
Brown
Water Resist.
100m
Crystal
Sapphire crystal

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
BI
Bill
Mar 31, 2025
These Rolex "Root beer" 1675 are wonderful with their brown dial.

A subset of the wonderful models that fall under the 1675 banner. Root beer in general terms are the two tone 1675's. A counsin.

QU
quattro
Mar 31, 2025
I like your “cousin” very much.

Not that many Rolex really speak to me, but this one definitely does. Wonderful.

BI
Bill
Mar 31, 2025
If you take one step back no crown guards 1675 you also have a glorious model

QU
quattro
Mar 31, 2025
Stunning.

Both the Concord and this “no crown guards” are gorgeous. I love the fact that neither of them has the Mercedes hour hand. And I think I like the shape of the hands of the “no crown guards” even better (even if I like the bigger GMT arrow of the Concord). Thanks for sharing these incredible pieces.

MT
MTR
Mar 31, 2025
Bill, this watch is gorgeous…

TE
TeutonicCarFan
Mar 31, 2025
Great post

Watch number 2 has made me consider Rolex certified pre owned many times. This even as I’m mostly off Rolex these days.

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