Rolex GMT-Master II Watches

Rolex GMT-Master II: Overview & Key Specifications

The Rolex GMT-Master II is popular among watch enthusiasts, especially among travelers and airline pilots. The model is famous because it allows you to read the time in two different time zones simultaneously.

Model Description & Naming

The story of the Rolex GMT-Master II began in 1955. Rolex started working with Pan American World Airways to make a watch for their pilots. The company called the first model “GMT-Master.” However, Rolex released the GMT-Master II in 1982. The biggest change in this new version was the movement inside, which allowed for moving the local hour hand separately without stopping the other hands. Rolex fans have given nicknames to the different color combinations of the ceramic bezel. Keep in mind that these are not the official names. However, everyone in the watch community uses them. These include:

• Pepsi: It has the red and blue bezel. For instance, when we look at the reference 126710BLRO, we actually see that it looks like the soda logo. 
• Batman or Batgirl: These watches have a black and blue bezel. The Batman model has an Oyster bracelet. On the other hand, the Batgirl model has a Jubilee bracelet. 
• Root Beer: It is the two-tone steel and Everose gold model and has a black and brown bezel.
• Sprite: Unlike Pepsi and Batman, this model has a green and black bezel. It has the crown on the left side, as we see in the reference 126720VTNR.

Technical Specifications

Although GMT-Master II watches have different metals and colors, the core specs are mostly the same. Here are the technical details that you will find in the newer GMT-Master II watches:

• Case Size: The case size is 40mm. It is a classic size that fits most wrists comfortably. 
• Material: Most popular watches use Oystersteel or 904L stainless steel, which is very resistant to corrosion. You can also find versions in 18ct Everose gold, yellow gold, and white gold. 
• Bezel: The bezel rotates in both directions. It has a Cerachrom insert made of ceramic. So much so that the watch runs on the Calibre 3285. In addition, the model has a self-winding mechanical movement made entirely by Rolex. 
• Power Reserve: The model can run for about 70 hours if you take it off, which is nice because you can leave it for the weekend, and it will even run on Monday. 
• Water Resistance: The Rolex GMT-Master II is waterproof up to 330 feet or 100 meters. The winding crown uses the Triplock system to keep water out. 
• Crystal: It uses a sapphire crystal, which is resistant to scratches. There is a Cyclops lens at the 3 o’clock position, which magnifies the date 2.5x. Therefore, it is easy to read.

Main Variants

Bracelets and materials are the biggest factors that let us differentiate between the watches in the GMT-Master II family. You can buy the steel models with two types of bracelets. For instance, the Oyster bracelet is the sporty option with three flat links. Thus, these make it very strong. On the other hand, the Jubilee bracelet has five smaller links, which look more dressy and comfortable. But keep in mind that both have the Oysterlock safety clasp, preventing the watch from opening by accident. The Easylink extension also makes the bracelet 5mm larger on hot days. 

When it comes to movement, older models launched before 2018 would use the Calibre 3186. The newer models, such as reference 12 series, use a more modern Calibre 3285. Actually, the Chronergy escapement is the primary upgrade in the new movement, which makes the GMT-Master II watch more efficient and reliable, especially against magnetic fields. 

Rolex GMT-Master II Prices: Retail vs Secondary Market

You will find a massive difference between the price Rolex mentions on its website and the price you actually pay to buy the watch. Many people want this watch, and that’s why authorized dealers usually have no stock. Therefore, this causes buyers to go to the secondary market. So, this is where you can buy the watch immediately. However, the price is much higher than the official retail price.

Secondary-Market Price Overview

The price in the secondary market depends on the specific model and its condition. The market has stabilized in 2025 compared to what we experienced in 2022. Anyway, the condition of the watch is an important factor. For example, a watch labeled as “unworn” or “new” will usually cost the most. 

Similarly, a “very good” condition means the watch does not have any scratches. However, it is slightly cheaper. Most collectors want the full set, which means the watch should come with the original green box, the manual, the warranty card, and the white hang tag. A watch without paper has a lower price. 

Moreover, a steel Pepsi, such as 126710BLRO, usually sells between AED 78,000 and AED 95,000 in Dubai. On the other hand, the Batman model, like the 126710BLNR, is slightly cheaper. So, this one has a price between AED 63,000 and AED 72,000. The solid gold or two-tone models, such as the Root Beer, have higher prices.

Official Retail Price List

Rolex GMT-Master II as an Investment

You should look at the Rolex GMT-Master II as an investment or asset. The reason is that almost all models, particularly the stainless steel sports Rolexes, maintain their value very well. If you buy a Pepsi or a Batman at the retail price, you make a profit on paper because the market value is 40% to 80% higher. 

In addition, the Rolex GMT-Master II watches are very easy to sell. Dealers in Dubai, New York, or London will always buy a GMT-Master II because there is always a customer waiting for it. Although prices for GMT-Master II dropped in 2022 and 2023, they have become quite stable in 2025. We recommend steel models because we see them as reliable investments. Gold models are also beautiful, but they don’t increase in value as aggressively as the steel versions.

Authenticity, Certification, and Warranty

There are many high-quality fake Rolex GMT-Master II watches on the market. Therefore, you must check the authenticity and understand how the warranty works. That way, you can make your investment safe and achieve peace of mind.

Every modern GMT-Master II is a Superlative Chronometer, which is a certification from Rolex. So, this means the watch has passed the official COSC test and then passed a second test conducted by experts in the Rolex factories. The company guarantees the watch is accurate to -2 / +2 seconds per day. Our experts at Watch Maestro look at the following when checking the authenticity or genuineness of the watch:

• The Rehaut: It is the metal ring inside the crystal around the dial. It must have “ROLEX” engraved sharply. Remember, the serial number is engraved at the 6 o’clock position. 
• The Hand Stack: The hour hand is usually at the bottom. For instance, we see that on a real GMT-Master II with Calibre 3285. But it is also on the minute hand and the seconds hand. 
• The Bezel Action: Turning the bezel must feel smooth. But at the same time, it should feel precise. If it is loose or makes a cheap clicking sound, you must question the watch’s authenticity. 

As always, all new GMT-Master II watches come with a five-year international warranty. Keep in mind that this warranty follows the watch. It does not follow the owner. Therefore, if you buy a 2024 model in 2025 on the secondary market, you still have a warranty until 2029. But you must have the original green warranty card for the validity. At Watch Maestro, we care for our customers, so we offer a limited 12-month warranty on a GMT-Master II watch.