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.
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
About the Rolex Rolex 16753 Ref. 16753
The Rolex GMT-Master reference 16753 is a notable two-tone iteration of the brand's travel watch, produced during the 1980s. It represents a significant evolution from earlier GMT-Master models, incorporating updated materials and an improved movement while retaining the classic GMT functionality. This reference is distinguished by its combination of stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, offering a more luxurious aesthetic compared to its all-steel counterparts.
This reference features a 40mm Oyster case crafted from steel and gold, housing the automatic Caliber 3075 movement. This movement provides a power reserve of approximately 42 hours and includes the GMT complication, allowing for the tracking of a second time zone, alongside a date display. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal and is water-resistant to 100 meters, consistent with its intended use as a robust yet refined travel instrument.
For collectors, the 16753 is appreciated for its vintage appeal combined with modern reliability. It bridges the gap between earlier four-digit references and the subsequent five-digit models, offering a distinct aesthetic with its two-tone construction and often seen with a brown or black dial. The presence of an acrylic crystal places it firmly within the vintage category, appealing to those who value the characteristics of watches from this era.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 3075
- Case
- steel and gold
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- black
- Water Resist.
- 100m
- Crystal
- Acrylic crystal
About the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126715
The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 126715 is a distinguished offering within the brand's travel watch collection, notable for its exclusive use of 18k Everose gold. This reference stands apart from its steel and two-tone counterparts by presenting a monochromatic precious metal aesthetic, emphasizing luxury and a refined presence. It represents a contemporary evolution of the GMT-Master II, incorporating modern technical advancements while maintaining the core functionality of tracking multiple time zones.
The watch features a 40 mm Oyster case crafted from 18k Everose gold, a proprietary rose gold alloy developed by Rolex. It is equipped with the self-winding caliber 3285, a movement known for its precision and a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The case is fitted with a sapphire crystal and ensures water resistance up to 100 meters. A bidirectional rotating 24-hour graduated Cerachrom bezel in black and brown complements the Everose gold case.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a luxurious and understated GMT-Master II. Its full Everose gold construction positions it at the premium end of the GMT-Master II range, offering a distinct alternative to the more common steel and two-tone models. The black dial provides a classic contrast, ensuring legibility and a cohesive design.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 3285
- Case
- 18k Everose Gold
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 100m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126711CHNR
The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 126711CHNR, introduced in 2018, represents a significant addition to the contemporary GMT-Master II collection. This reference is notable for its "Root Beer" aesthetic, combining Oystersteel and Everose gold, a combination that distinguishes it from full steel or full gold variants. It offers a modern interpretation of a classic color scheme, appealing to collectors who appreciate a blend of robust utility and luxurious materials within the GMT-Master II lineage.
This model features a 40 mm Oyster case crafted from a combination of Oystersteel and Everose gold, ensuring durability and a distinctive visual appeal. It is equipped with the Caliber 3285, an automatic movement developed by Rolex, which provides a substantial power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, enhancing its resistance to scratches, and is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for various activities.
The 126711CHNR appeals to collectors seeking a GMT-Master II that offers both functionality and a unique material and color palette. Its Everose gold and Oystersteel construction, paired with the brown and black Cerachrom bezel, provides a warm and sophisticated appearance. This reference stands as a modern successor to earlier bi-color GMT models, maintaining the dual-time zone complication while incorporating contemporary materials and movement technology.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 3285
- Case
- Oystersteel and Everose gold
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 100m (330 feet)
- Crystal
- Sapphire