The Rolex GMT-Master II, a watch synonymous with aviation and global travel, is celebrated for its instantly recognizable bidirectional rotating bezel. This bezel, a crucial element of the watch's functionality and aesthetic appeal, has undergone numerous iterations throughout the model's history, each reflecting advancements in materials, design, and manufacturing techniques. This article will explore the intricacies of the GMT-Master II bezel rotation, encompassing its purpose, evolution, different bezel materials and designs, common issues, and replacement options. We'll also delve into the various GMT-Master II models, highlighting the unique bezel characteristics of each.
The Purpose of the Bidirectional Rotating Bezel
The GMT-Master II's defining feature is its 24-hour graduated bezel. Unlike unidirectional bezels found on dive watches, the GMT-Master II's bezel rotates in both directions. This functionality is critical for its primary purpose: tracking a second time zone. By rotating the bezel, the wearer can align the 24-hour marker with the hour hand of their home time, instantly allowing them to read a second time zone on the watch's independently adjustable GMT hand. This is particularly useful for pilots and frequent travelers who need to keep track of multiple time zones simultaneously. The bidirectional nature allows for easy adjustment regardless of the current time displayed on the watch.
Rolex GMT-Master II Versions and Bezel Evolution
The GMT-Master II's history is rich with variations, each showcasing a unique evolution of the bezel design. The journey started with the original GMT-Master, which laid the foundation for the iconic design. The GMT-Master II, introduced later, refined the functionality and aesthetics. Let's explore some key models and their bezel characteristics:
Rolex GMT Master II models: The evolution of the GMT-Master II encompasses a broad range of models, each with subtle and significant differences. These differences extend to the bezel materials, colors, and even the way the numerals and markings are applied.
* Early Models (pre-16700): These models often featured aluminum bezels with painted or printed markings. Over time, these markings could fade or wear, leading to potential legibility issues. The color schemes were often simpler, with less emphasis on the now-iconic "Pepsi" or "Batman" color combinations.
* Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 16700: This model represented a significant step forward, introducing a more durable and less prone to fading aluminum bezel. The bezel insert itself became more robust, and the color schemes began to solidify the design language that we recognize today.
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