Rolex GMT Master II Review... Is It My GRAIL Still?

Рет қаралды 21,682

Күн бұрын

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I've always wanted a GMT Master II Pepsi. Here's my chance, but my thoughts are more complicated than I expected.
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Пікірлер: 90

@jethrojacinto2798 Жыл бұрын

The 16710 Pepsi was one of my grails until I obviously finally pulled the trigger on it last year around this time and I absolutely love it. It really is the best of both worlds of the modern and vintage look and feel.

@jamesd4695 Жыл бұрын

I used to own a 16710 Pepsi and it was fantastic. At the same time, I had an Explorer I, as well. I ended up keeping the Explorer bc it felt less 'generic', if that makes sense. But the Pepsi was/is a great timepiece. The 5 digits wear so much better than the newer ones.

@DatamarkSystemsSL-Spain 11 ай бұрын

I got mine since 2008 bought new. I have been buying some other watches since then but I 100% agree those feelings I have when wearing my Master II... really have never found a watch that offers me such incredibke wearing comodity (I mean perfection), elegance and sporty look at same time. I wear it right now and this video has made me realize why I love this watch so much over any other.... by the way... I have used this watch for a lot of years , in all type of condition (swiming, working, in the beach, etc,,, etc , and never required any service... still running perfect (apart of few small logical scratches from such intensive long-term use). The glass still PERFECT. It is some incredible... no words..... sorry for.such a long writting.. I just came up. I recomend this piece 100% as I consider it the pefect watch that I probably will ever had.

@DatamarkSystemsSL-Spain 11 ай бұрын

Just wanted to add that my watch's red part of the bezel lost in few years the intense red color and did turn to a kind of soft washed clear red from then until today. It has its own perdonality but I heard that it something that happens to these models.

@dooks85 Жыл бұрын

I just joined the 16710 club after considering other older rolex options. I absolutely love it. The weight, the bezels, the slimmer lugs and chamfers. The one I picked up was solid end link with LEC pepsi bezel and fat font serif. The combination of those things is just the sweet spot for me and was really the perfect grouping. Grab one of those before they are expensive!

@stagglee Жыл бұрын

I just got a promotion and will receive bonus soon and I was thinking of adding another watch to the collection...this one has been far off my radar for years but I saw it in person a couple months ago and has heavily drawn my interest for my next pick up

@John_watches-cars Жыл бұрын

Love the pre ceramic Pepsi! For a clean example with box/papers your still around $13-15k. Sometimes more. Will definitely be getting one soon!

@hendersonshorology Жыл бұрын

I’m the same as you in that I’ve been listing after a 16710 Pepsi for years, for me it is THE Rolex Watch. Great information and insight here, especially around the Coke which of course comes up when looking at these online. Really do need to get one on the wrist 👍🏻 Thanks for the great video 🙏🏻

@rnunez70681 Жыл бұрын

Another great video Harrison. My favorite Rolexes were always the Polar 1st and the Pepsi 2nd, 5 digit models of course. If I had to choose between the current Pepsi which sells for around 18-20k right now or a 16710 Pepsi with the 3186 and error stick dial (which is around the same or a bit more) I would hands down pick the 16710. I remember the retail of that watch around 2007 was around $6100, and I think the Pepsi GMT is an absolutely kickass watch, even better than the Daytona, but the current 6 digit model leaves me cold. Too flashy, too much "look at me" with the shiny ceramic bezel and the beefed up case and polished center links. No, the 16710 is the one to have, all brushed, more subdued aluminum bezel, much better wearing feel on the wrist but still bulletproof. Too bad right now one is out of the question for me but I'm enjoying my Polar still!!

@alycks6056 Жыл бұрын

I like the sub more cuz less marking on the bezel and one less hand in the dial, a cleaner look, and u really have to get ur head around to understand that time zone function. I’d rather use my phone for that

@dannyg6592 Жыл бұрын

The Pepsi you reviewed is indeed an iconic watch. I am on a waitlist for a new one, but I think a nice example of a 16710 may be a better idea. I look forward to seeing your comparison of the Pepsi and the Polar Explorer.

@andywilliams4887 Жыл бұрын

I was lucky to have bought this back in 2003 a year after purchasing my Rolex Sub Date 16610. Had an 18-month wait for both even back then. I was a travel journalist at the time and this GMT was on my wrist for every trip. It still remains part of my collection. Just just two Rolex services in that time and new Pepsi bezel 10 years ago and it's running beautifully. I agree that the aluminium finish is more vibrant and I'm personally not a fan of the red fading to pink - hence the replacement.

@robertp5123 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the review. I’m seeing my AD and hope to take a look at the Pepsi, Coke, and Root Beer. Still love the Pepsi with the Jubilee bracelet at this point.

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Don't blame you! Great watch and great bracelet.

@oaktree1628 Жыл бұрын

Switch the dials…. And you have a GMT master with a white dial… very cool!

@tedj9 Жыл бұрын

Another great video! Ha again very similar taste in watches. I have a 16710 and a polar 16570. When I bought the GMTII 7 years ago, I started wearing it with a Pepsi bezel, but switched to the black (have all three bezels) and that has been on it the majority of time. Love the understated look at work, the splash of colour draws a little too much attention in my field. That being said if I had another black bezel watch this would switch to the Pepsi or Coke. This versatility adds to the greatness of the 16710 and makes it one of the best more modern Rolexs in my opinion.

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

I agree the ability to change bezels is awesome. It's something I wish I had with the explorer II. I'll likely still get a 16710 some day. maybe an older model reference. Enjoy!

@pth8888 Жыл бұрын

Same as you, I couldn’t get the Rolex gmt simply because I already owned a Omega seamaster gmt and a Rolex Explorer 2. I have too much sentimental attachment with my seamaster gmt to replace it with the Rolex gmt.

@domgledhill4165 Жыл бұрын

I had a 2005 pepsi after yearning for one for 15 years - and loved it initially. That is, until I grabbed my 16600 seadweller back from the safe after 6 months and realised that I much prefer the more subdued, all black aesthetic of the 'dweller. It's gone now, but seeing your Exp II makes me fancy one of those as a stable mate to the 16600!! BTW, how big are your wrists?

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

It's nice to have something a bit louder! 6.75" wrists

@Heater-lk7fc Жыл бұрын

congrats.. great vid!! i love mine.. have all three inserts.. which helps change it up when you want a new look

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Nice! That's what I would do as well. Enjoy!

@JFK-1984 8 ай бұрын

I need one in my life, next year for my 40th bday 😊🎉

@cohan.forcer Жыл бұрын

The observation of polished bezel grip is 10/10!

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Appreciate it!

@squarestanley Жыл бұрын

The term "never meet your heroes" comes to mind. While I am not much interested in owning a Rolex, there has always been one exception; the Rolex Explorer 36. I've always imagined it would be my perfect one-watch collection. I even bought a BB36 to test the theory - and the BB was really amazing. When I finally (recently) had the opportunity to handle the Explorer in the metal, all I could think to myself was "this is it?" And truthfully, the experience made me kind of regret selling the BB36. Anyhow, point is, Rolex has great heritage and certainly sets the bar for marketing in watchmaking, but they aren't for everyone. PS. Yes, I know Tudor is made by Rolex.

@KC-bv9kf Жыл бұрын

my all-black 16710 has been with me for over 20 y, probably over 4000 wearing. Only maintenance service twice and only +2 to +3 s/d . The ultimate dumb reach, jack of all trade, tool watch. Looking back left a smile on my face because of the troubles it went through with me, even into the jungle of Myanmar a few times. Ironically, it's too difficult to wear now. Then again, there are not many true/traveler GMT's can safely be used for destinations beyond North America (with all due respects to my European brothers). Waiting for my Traska Venture for next missions.

@nick-just Жыл бұрын

Perhaps a contemporary GMT Master II would be a better fit to sit alongside your 5-digit Polar?

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

That's sort of what I'm considering at the moment.

@RM-ue3bp Жыл бұрын

you got very good choices, they both got the same case and bracelet, that’s about it but the colors and appeal are very different.

@Anthony-bc2cw Жыл бұрын

I see your point. I owned an 116610LN prior to the recently purchased 126710BLNR on Oyster. They are very similar to an extent in terms of look/feel. But I love them both but the feeling was different upon receiving the two. The Sub was my first Rolex and the Batman was my 4th, even though I technically like the Batman more, the Sub holds a closer place in my heart. Watch things.... lol

@basic_le4857 7 ай бұрын

Just bought a 16700 and I love it. Besides the "loud" Pepsi color, it's stealthy and I love it

@Nefville Жыл бұрын

Love the Pepsi. And especially the aluminum bezel because it reflects light so well and is just so much more vibrant. Its *blue & red* not pink and purple or navy-ish and burgundy-ish like the latest GMTs. Honestly I wish they made the newer ones as vibrant as that, it can easily be done on ceramic.

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Fair point! I tend to like the aluminum inserts as well!

@HD-Tech Жыл бұрын

That thing is sweet!!!.... Got my 126 Batman and Im loving it. I have developed an appreciation for the 167 Coke though

@thegorn Жыл бұрын

It's not a bad piece. Got the fairly clunky 3185 instead of the far superior 3186. The size is better than modern Rolex. I like the drilled lugs and the shine of the aluminium bezel insert - much nicer than that plastic-looking coloured ceramic of the current GMT2 pepsi. Lack of AR coating underside is annoying though. Lack of AR coating underside doesn't matter so much for a white dial, but is annoying as anything on a gloss black dial.

@TheGunDude Жыл бұрын

A few years ago I almost got the Pepsi but decided to get a sub instead thinking it’ll go with everything since it’s all black. The prices were very very close so the price wasn’t a concern. Looking back I really wish I would’ve gotten the gmt because I’ve wanted the Pepsi for a very long time.

@RobinB5150 Жыл бұрын

If you have only one watch then you did the right thing with buying the sub. Exactly why I have a GMT LN. Back in the day, Pan Am pilots wanted a black GMT because the Pepsi looked like a clowns watch according to them🙈

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

The sub is more versatile! I wouldn't beat yourself over the head about it!

@mikedavid6681 Жыл бұрын

The 16710 is awesome. I have the coke version. That one in your video does not have a genuine rolex insert. How can you tell? Look at the base of the 2s in 22. They should curve on there base to follow inner edge of insert. That ones flat and the top of the 2s are also out of proportion.

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Interesting! Well I just resold it to a dealer, they're getting me a quote. I'm sure I'll get the kick back if it's wrong! Good info

@DeanoTXR53 Жыл бұрын

That jumped out to me right away too! And I saw some poor printing on at least one number. Normally I ignore that stuff but it really stood out in a couple of the shots

@Saints-Forever Жыл бұрын

I agree. It stood out quite obviously especially the ‘22’

@jeromio_peezy6822 Жыл бұрын

The Pepsi bezel definitely looks sketchy in the watch that you showed in this video. The font of the numerals look off and it seemed misaligned. Looks like an aftermarket Pepsi bezel to me.

@Saints-Forever Жыл бұрын

I agree. Look like an after market bezel as the ‘2’ seem off and bottom alignment is flat

@dr.raymond4337 Жыл бұрын

Traded my Explorer II's 40 mm (black and polar), as my 42mm Explorer II's were getting much more wrist time. I ended up buying the 40's again. My personal lesson is, I always regretted selling any of my Rolex's and it always cost me more to replace them.

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Wise words! I'm sure I'd be in the same boat if I sold one

@truthenterprises576 Жыл бұрын

i have a brand new one i purchased for 10,500 box papers tags and the original recipe by the original owner. its a 2007 and has been sitting in the safe for its entire life

@marcozuleta133 4 ай бұрын

Never understood why a GMT needed an extra hand complication. Just turning the bezel would do 🤷

@fabienponchard2220 Жыл бұрын

I would rather have the GMT then the Polar but to each his own

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Fair! Don't blame you

@ragetobe Ай бұрын

I had this dream of a birth year watch, a ‘72 1675 GMT Master, then I had one on my wrist and realised that the bracelet is just not the quality of the new GMT Master 2, I mean the ceramic version.

@will_the_don Жыл бұрын

I recently traded my new model explorer II for this, absolutely love it

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Nice! Enjoy!

@hod6ie856 8 ай бұрын

The bezel on this 16710 is completely off. Look at the 22, some would argue that it's a "Fishhook bezel", but I don't buy that, Rolex simply wouldn't intentionally make the font that bad, it's and aftermarket insert for sure - Great watch, but do yourself a solid and get RSC to fit a new insert 👍

@JasonFerguson17t Жыл бұрын

Great video. I wanted a Submariner for many years until I tried on a few. My perspective completely changed once I handled one…

@popoyancheta5447 Жыл бұрын

Sir ? Please go on a Gmt or Daytona ……

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

It's interesting to see how the feeling can be different over time and in person.

@Akj6zmdteuxze 3 ай бұрын

I love 1675 . Those are really expensive , so I ended up buying 126710. If u ask me gmt 2 best edition belongs to 126710 while 1675 got to be the best version in aluminium

@MistaRhoi Жыл бұрын

I believe Glycine was the first four-hander GMT watch. I enjoy your videos though.

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Glycine was the first GMT watch, but it was a 3 hand reference with the hour hand just circling once per every 24 hours. The Rolex added the fourth hand.

@popoyancheta5447 Жыл бұрын

The coolest thing is if you look at your watch under the microscope , you’ll be able to see the very minute details of the craftsmanship ….

@marvinberwart Жыл бұрын

Wich craftmanship are you talking about? The one of the industrial machines that produce those watches in bulk? Definitly not the watches to look for craftmanship. Very good quality nevertheless, I'm not hating on Rolex but they are mass produced with extremly little craftmanship involved.

@popoyancheta5447 Жыл бұрын

@@marvinberwart …. So a person can’t talk about the good or bad thing about rolex even though it is mass produced ??? Bro , those minute details are the one’s that makes rolex stand out !!! If you think you give good advice on rolexes ..then i think i can too … as an owner of several rolexes such as a sub , a gmt , daytona & dd , & switching on my everday dj’s !!!! … am not braggin all has box & papers not just purchased from some random flippers … so pleaseeeee if you know rolex some people do also … all of my watches are on orbita …… the box on your GMT is not even on the right box !!!!

@marvinberwart Жыл бұрын

@@popoyancheta5447 I think you misunderstood me there, or maybe you don't get what the word craftmanship means : it means done by a craftsman, an artisan. And no, Rolex are not hand made by any means but still very good watches indeed. I just wanted to point out that, that's all.

@bigmacdaddy1234 Жыл бұрын

Ummm...no.

@teammacnamara5320 Жыл бұрын

I enjoyed this

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Glad to hear it!

@NITELIFEKENNEL Жыл бұрын

I'll buy the fake one you compared it too in the previous video lol

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

haha it was never mine to sell.

@9er.. Жыл бұрын

I’ll take two please 😂😂😂

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

you and me both!

@nicksingleton Жыл бұрын

The Pepsi bezel is too loud and played out. The GMT Master II, however, is one of the best Rolex models with an incredible movement. I'd go with a Batman, Coke, or Root Beer.

@DeanoTXR53 Жыл бұрын

Good thing about a 16710 is you can swap bezel inserts in about 3 minutes. You can have a coke, Pepsi or blain black GMT on any given day, as your mood sees fit. I have all 3 inserts, but the Pepsi is the one that seems to stick. They're everywhere online, sure. But in reality you never get tired of looking down and seeing that red and blue aluminum

@nicksingleton Жыл бұрын

@@DeanoTXR53 I certainly appreciate the traditional look of the Pepsi. It's a classic. I prefer the 116710BLNR though.

@aldrichchung Жыл бұрын

Explorer 2 for the win!!!!!!! 😂😂😂

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

haha just one man's opinion!

@fontyyy Жыл бұрын

Wears too small in my opinion, I've got an 8.5" wrist, my 41mm Sub feels a lot bigger and far better, my BB Heritage does as well.

@oaktree1628 Жыл бұрын

If I had an 8.5” wrist I would wear a Yachtmaster

@fontyyy Жыл бұрын

@@oaktree1628 I don't like them. The Sub is great.

@JackoWillMakeLives-loveu Жыл бұрын

Gotta have the no holes model, those drilled lugs are a big no

@HarrisonElmore Жыл бұрын

Fair! To each their own!

@DeanoTXR53 Жыл бұрын

Holes cases for life! I love em. Looks more true to the original models, and it's awesome if you change straps constantly like me. I also prefer the hollow end links with better articulation too, but most folks love solid end links for whatever reason

@andreasjung3612 Жыл бұрын

Bezel is fantastic and iconic but: the dial is to dark, the hands and indices disapear. The hands are out of proportion, each one is different style, together with Cyclop they produce chaos. You have to put it close to your eyes to understand what is going on there on the dial. Thats why I was kind of disapointed how it looks on wrist. Black or green Submariner's dial is way more better, Explorers too.

@edrader Жыл бұрын

grail = a watch you'll be tired of in a year

@ricoimf777 17 күн бұрын

You think so? I have my „grail“ for 5 years now and I look at it everyday with sheer joy

@jamesmoninger1982 Ай бұрын

Tired of hearing about the Rolex "Pepsi." Can't you Rolex reviewers talk about anything else?

@waynesilva3129 8 ай бұрын

I just wish all these GMT videos would leave out the history. We’re all aware of how the GMT started. Please stop parroting each others videos. Please tell us something we don’t already know.