The Rolex GMT-Master holds a legendary status among watch enthusiasts, a symbol of both practicality and enduring style. This article focuses specifically on a particular iteration: the Rolex Steel GMT-Master, reference 16700, circa 1998. We'll explore its features, its place within the broader GMT-Master lineage, and its current market value, touching upon related models and answering questions surrounding price points for various GMT-Masters, from vintage pieces to modern, rare variations.
Our subject, the Rolex SS GMT-Master ref. 16700 from approximately 1998, represents a significant period in the evolution of this iconic timepiece. Located in West Hollywood, CA (as per the provided information), this particular example showcases the quintessential features that defined the 16700: a robust stainless steel construction, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and the reliable caliber 3175 movement with its quick-set date function. The 24-hour hand, a hallmark of the GMT-Master, allows for the tracking of a second time zone, a feature that cemented its popularity with pilots and international travelers.
This model sits comfortably within the broader spectrum of Rolex GMT-Master history, bridging the gap between earlier, more utilitarian designs and the modern, highly polished iterations. To fully appreciate the 16700, we must journey through the rich history of the GMT-Master, exploring its various incarnations and examining its evolution.
A Journey Through Time: The Rolex GMT-Master Lineage
The story of the GMT-Master begins in the 1950s, a period of burgeoning air travel and the need for a watch capable of accurately displaying multiple time zones. Pan Am, the pioneering airline, collaborated with Rolex to create a watch that could meet the demands of its pilots. This collaboration resulted in the birth of the reference 6542, a highly sought-after vintage model. The 6542, often referred to as the "first generation" GMT-Master, is characterized by its relatively simple design and the use of an acrylic crystal. Finding a well-preserved vintage Rolex GMT-Master model 6542 is a significant undertaking, and its price often reflects its rarity and historical significance. These vintage Rolex 1675 GMT-Master watches, and even older models like the 6542, command substantial sums in the collector's market, placing them well beyond the typical price range of the more readily available 16700. The price of a vintage Rolex 1675 GMT-Master can vary widely depending on condition, originality, and provenance.
The reference 1675, which followed the 6542, represented a significant step forward. This model, produced from the mid-1950s to the early 1980s, introduced several improvements, including a more robust case and improved movement. The Rolex GMT-Master Pepsi 1675, with its iconic red and blue bezel, is particularly popular among collectors. The prices of these old Rolex GMT Masters, especially those in excellent condition, are consistently high, reflecting their desirability and historical importance. They represent a significant investment, much higher than the price of a 1998 16700.
current url：https://gaozqg.h862a.com/bag/1998-rolex-gmt-master-44637