Rolex GMT-Master 16700

Watch Ref.: 40mm Rolex GMT-Master “Pepsi” 16700

WD Stock Number: FPC1226

Dial Type / Colour: Black Tritium Dial

Series / Year: U Series / June 1998

Condition: Well Used

Warranty: In-House 1 Year Movement Warranty

Stock Location: FEP 02-36

Remarks: Full Set with Outer Box, Green Box, Booklets, Warranty Cert, Red Tag and Green Serial Tag

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A true neo-vintage icon, this Rolex GMT-Master 16700 embodies everything collectors love about the transitional era of Rolex tool watches. A late production U production piece from 1998, this timepiece blends vintage charm with modern reliability, and this particular piece offers a level of originality and character that is becoming increasingly rare.

What sets this 16700 apart is its stunning tritium dial. Over the years, the tritium lume plots have taken on a creamy patina that perfectly complements the bold black gloss dial, offering a warm, aged charm that only time can produce. The “Swiss - T < 25” text at 6 o'clock stands as a subtle reminder of its tritium heritage—highly desirable and no longer in production.

Equally impressive is its original "Pepsi" bezel insert, which has beautifully faded into soft tones of magenta and denim blue. It’s this kind of natural fade that seasoned collectors covet—each bezel aging uniquely, telling its own story. The bezel’s wear is even and attractive, preserving the watch’s character without compromising its crisp details.

This example comes as a complete full set. It includes the original inner and outer boxes, punched warranty certificate dated 20 June 1998, green serial tag, booklets, calendar, and chronometer hang tag. This is a collector’s dream and an ideal choice for anyone looking to own a pristine slice of Rolex GMT history!

The Rolex 16700 is powered by the 48hr power reserve Caliber 3175 movement, offering the same rugged reliability and precision that Rolex is known for with an added quick-set date function. It lacks the newer “independent hour hand” feature found in later GMT-Master II 16710 models, making it more aligned with the original GMT-Master’s simplicity and purpose. This makes it a true representation of the initial GMT concept, offering a blend of practicality and timeless aesthetics.

This particular example features a light creamy patina on both markers and hand. Fitted with an original Rolex “Pepsi” bezel, with its iconic red and blue color scheme, pays homage to the first-ever GMT-Master from the 1950s, the ref. 6542. The bezel's vibrant bright red-blue colors, along with the creamy patina, create a beautiful contrast that highlights the timeless appeal of the 16700, making it a standout piece for any collection.

This example is also complete with its Hong Kong warranty certificate dated 1 Jan 1995, adding to its collectability as a milestone timepiece. 

Whether you're drawn to its historical significance, its beautiful patina, or its connection to the roots of the GMT-Master line, the 16700 is a superb choice for those seeking both style and substance!