ROLEX GMT-MASTER

Maker: Rolex
Model: GMT-Master
Reference: 16710
Year: 1989
Serial: L-Serial
Material: Stainless Steel
Dial: Tritium Dial
Dimensions: 40mm
Crystal: Sapphire
Lume: Tritium Dial and Hands
Bracelet: Rolex, oyster bracelet, ref. 78360 with end links 501B. Clasp stamped with 09 (year 1990)
Box & Papers: None

In the dimly lit cabin of a transatlantic flight, a seasoned pilot adjusts his Rolex GMT-Master, reference 16710. The year is 1989, and the world is on the cusp of a technological revolution. Yet, amidst the rapid changes, this timepiece remains a steadfast companion, bridging time zones with effortless grace.

Crafted from resilient stainless steel, the 40mm case houses a dial illuminated by tritium—a luminescent material that, over time, develops a unique patina, telling tales of countless adventures. The sapphire crystal shields the face, ensuring clarity as the wearer navigates through different phases of day and night.

The GMT-Master's signature feature, its 24-hour hand, allows the tracking of a second time zone, a function indispensable to pilots and globetrotters alike. The rotatable bezel, with its distinct red and blue "Pepsi" design, offers a third time zone, making it a true marvel of horological engineering.

This particular model, bearing the L-Serial, signifies its production in the late 1980s—a period that saw the rise of icons who favored its blend of functionality and style. Tom Selleck, famed for his role in "Magnum P.I.," often sported the GMT-Master, its presence as commanding as his on-screen persona. Clint Eastwood, the epitome of rugged sophistication, was frequently seen with this watch gracing his wrist. Even the legendary Marlon Brando owned a GMT-Master, a testament to its universal appeal among the elite.

The Sophisticated Traveler: Airport to Aperitifs

Outfit: Tailored navy blazer, merino wool turtleneck, selvedge denim, Chelsea boots

Jet-setting demands a watch that marries function with elegance. The GMT-Master 16710 is designed for seamless transitions across time zones, and so is this look. A sharp navy blazer and a fine-gauge merino wool turtleneck exude effortless sophistication, while selvedge denim adds a relaxed, contemporary edge. A pair of chocolate suede Chelsea boots rounds off the ensemble, maintaining comfort without sacrificing style. As you check the local time against GMT on your bidirectional bezel, there’s an undeniable confidence in knowing your wristwear is as refined as your itinerary.

Weekend Escape: From Coastal Drives to Café Lounges

Outfit: Linen camp-collar shirt, tailored chino shorts, espadrilles, woven leather belt

A weekend getaway calls for laid-back elegance, and the GMT-Master 16710 is more than up to the task. Pair it with a soft linen camp-collar shirt, unbuttoned just enough to catch the ocean breeze. Opt for tailored chino shorts in a warm beige tone, striking the balance between tailored and relaxed. Finish the look with navy espadrilles and a woven leather belt, a subtle nod to the artisanal craftsmanship that mirrors the spirit of vintage Rolex. Whether you're tracing the coastline in a convertible or sipping espresso at a quiet café, the GMT-Master 16710 ensures you're never out of step with time—or style.

The Contemporary Professional: Office to After-Hours

Outfit: Charcoal double-breasted suit, crisp white poplin shirt, monk strap shoes, silk pocket square

For the urban professional who appreciates understated luxury, the Rolex GMT-Master 16710 is the ultimate power move. A charcoal double-breasted suit sets the tone, its structured lines complementing the watch’s robust yet refined presence. A crisp white poplin shirt provides contrast, while polished monk strap shoes underscore a sartorial confidence. Elevate the ensemble with a silk pocket square in deep burgundy, adding just a touch of personality. As you step out for post-meeting cocktails, the interplay of steel and sapphire on your wrist reflects the quiet assurance of a man who values timeless craftsmanship.

A classic from Rolex’s golden era of tool watches, this 1989 GMT-Master 16710 exudes the perfect blend of utilitarian charm and understated refinement. Featuring an L-serial number and presented in stainless steel, this piece is a quintessential example of the reference that bridged the gap between the vintage aluminum-bezel GMTs and the modern Cerachrom era.

The 40mm case remains in strong, honest condition, retaining its distinctive chamfers and well-defined lines. Signs of careful wear are present, adding to the character of a watch that has clearly lived a life of adventure while still preserving its integrity. The fixed crown guards are crisp, and the lugs retain their original proportions, speaking to the watch’s well-preserved nature.

At the heart of this piece lies the all-important tritium dial, a defining feature of early 16710s. The deep black surface remains clean, with evenly aged luminous plots that have developed a warm, creamy patina over the decades. The matching tritium hands enhance the cohesive vintage aesthetic, their lume subtly aged to complement the dial’s character. This is a dial that tells a story—one of time, wear, and the enduring beauty of Rolex’s mid-century design ethos.

Beneath the sapphire crystal beats the robust caliber 3185, an automatic movement renowned for its reliability and precision. With its independently adjustable hour hand, the GMT-Master 16710 remains a true traveler’s companion, effortlessly tracking multiple time zones as originally intended. The movement is performing well, maintaining strong timekeeping in line with expectations for a watch of this era.

Paired with its correct Rolex Oyster bracelet (ref. 78360) featuring 501B end links and a 1990-stamped clasp, the watch retains its original, purposeful feel. The bracelet shows signs of wear consistent with age but remains tight, a testament to Rolex’s exceptional build quality.

Though it arrives without its original box and papers, this GMT-Master 16710 stands on its own as a compelling collector’s piece—an unpolished, honest example of one of Rolex’s most beloved references. For those who appreciate the warmth of tritium, the robustness of an early sapphire-crystal sports Rolex, and the timeless allure of the GMT-Master line, this is a watch that speaks to both history and adventure.

In terms of performance, the watch excels; it was tested for accuracy, demonstrating a seconds per day (s/d) deviation of 1, with an amplitude of 263—illustrative of its superb mechanical precision.

The price includes Swiss VAT of 8.1%, which can be directly deducted for export, and the shipping cost comes with full worldwide insurance. Please note that the customer will be responsible for paying any customs duties in their country.

If you desire a complete service, we can provide it at an additional cost, with a warranty of at least one year for precision and accuracy (not for waterproofness).