Rolex GMT Master II Black Bezel (Ref. 16710), 1999

Dealer description — Huntington Company

History and Significance The Rolex GMT Master II ref. 16710 sits at an important crossroads in Rolex’s professional lineup. Produced from the late 1980s through the mid 2000s, it represents the final era of the classic aluminum-bezel GMT before Rolex transitioned the model into the modern ceramic format. As a result, the 16710 has become one of the most studied and collected modern-vintage Rolex references. Originally developed for Pan Am pilots in the 1950s, the GMT Master was designed to track multiple time zones simultaneously, a practical tool for long-haul travel in the jet age. By the time the GMT Master II was introduced, Rolex refined the concept further by allowing the local hour hand to be adjusted independently, making travel functionality significantly more user-friendly. The ref. 16710 embodies this evolution while retaining traditional proportions and design language. What makes the 16710 especially compelling is its versatility. The watch was delivered with different bezel insert configurations over its production run, including black, red and blue, and black and red combinations, all of which could be easily swapped. Combined with drilled lugs, a slimmer case profile, and the pre-ceramic aesthetic, this reference bridges the gap between vintage and modern. Today, the ref. 16710 is widely regarded as one of the last true tool GMTs from Rolex. It offers the usability expected of a contemporary sports watch while preserving the details and feel that collectors associate with Rolex’s earlier professional models. Its enduring appeal lies not in novelty, but in balance, practicality, and continuity within the GMT lineage. Writer’s Thoughts The 16710 is one of the most wearable sports Rolex references ever produced. Its balanced case, classic black dial, and red GMT hand give it timeless appeal while remaining practical for everyday wear. This example presents honestly with visible wear, reinforcing its tool-watch character without compromising structure or originality. Our Promise Every watch we offer is carefully inspected and verified for authenticity. We stand behind the integrity of each piece and represent it accurately and transparently. Our goal is to ensure complete confidence when purchasing from Huntington Company. Specifications Brand: Rolex Model: GMT Master II (Ref. 16710) Year: 1999 Case Material: Stainless steel Case Size: 40mm Bezel: Black aluminum GMT bezel insert Dial: Black dial with luminous hour markers Crystal: Sapphire crystal with cyclops magnifier Movement: Automatic Rolex GMT movement Strap/Bracelet: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet Buckle/Clasp: Rolex folding Oyster clasp Condition Case: Stainless steel case shows light surface wear consistent with age and careful use. Bezel: Black aluminum bezel insert shows light wear with clean numerals and even color. Crystal: Sapphire crystal is clean with no visible chips or cracks. Dial: Black dial is clean with well-preserved printing and even markers. Hands: Original hands are in excellent condition with matching lume and no corrosion. Strap/Bracelet: Original Oyster bracelet shows almost no stretch and surface wear consistent with use. Buckle/Clasp: Original Rolex clasp shows light handling marks and functions properly.