I love the Rolex GMT-Master as much as I like the Rolex Submariner Ceramic Bezel for a couple of reasons: (1) it’s able to efficiently display multiple timezones and (2) it has a strong history. If you’ve remembered, the historic Pan-Am GMT-Master models (with white dial) were initially given to the pilots of the said company. That said model was unofficially considered as the Moon Watch, according to Jake Ehrlich. I do not know about that (well, I do), but at least it was favored by many NASA astronauts as well.

This particular model would have been flawless had it not been for its clasp. It’s too flimsy for my taste – and I have to bend it a little so it will not open too easily. While this model has never let me down, I do not want to wait for that moment to happen. The new GMT-Master, the ref.116710LN (as shown below, photo by JKWatchStore), has a better clasp.

The bezel of the new GMT-Master II rotates ‘per hour’ and not ‘per minute.’ This is made possible by the utilization of a bearing that has a spring that clicks from teeth to teeth.

Another primary change on the new Rolex GMT-Master II, is the use of the triplock crown rather than the twinlock crown. Since the smaller twinlock crown looks awkward for some people, then the triplock crown becomes more appealing – because of the extra WR measure inside the crown. On a personal note, however, I think the twinlock crown is more comfortable than the triplock – although the former was a bit too small. Also, unlike the triplock that pokes on my Sea-Dweller and Yacht-Master, the twinlock does not.

The most notable change in this elegant classic is probably the use of a ceramic bezel. Anything ceramic is a product of heating and subsequent cooling. It’s a light weight, scratch resistant and not in the last place, durable material. Thus, what makes the GMT-Master 116710LN a rockin’ standout is its glossy look and smooth feel.

Note, on the other hand, that the black ceramic has tiny spots – it is not because of dust or dirt, it’s structural. The ‘6 of the ‘16 on the Rolex Submariner Ceramic Bezel, clearly show that the material is the same as the inlay of the Yacht-Master ref.16622. Most notably, platinum is used on the numbers on the ceramic bezel. Applied to the bezel using PVD techniques.