Notes: A few years after the release of the first GMT Master II in the 1980's, Rolex debuted the ref. 16710. Developed for use by commercial pilots, this particular preowned Rolex boasts the ability to read two time zones via the dial as well as a third time zone via the bezel. The GMT Master II also offers resistance to pressures of up to 330 feet as well as a highly reliable perpetual movement, making it the ideal timepiece for long, transcontinental flights. Unlike its predecessor, this particular reference boasts a thinner case and movement, creating a fit that is extremely comfortable and easy to wear.

Mechanism: The Cal. 3185 was the replacement for the short-lived Cal. 3085, the first in-house Rolex mechanism to feature an independently adjustable 24-hour hand, and the caliber that sat inside the inaugural reference of the GMT-Master II from 1983. The ‘Fat Lady’ enjoyed just five years in production before being superseded by the second generation of the brand’s aviator watch, with the 3185 providing identical functionality, but with a slimmer profile that allowed for a return to a more gracefully proportioned case. The Cal. 3185, hand-slop and all, was made from 1988 to 2005, a long and successful run and one that was only upgraded due to the brand perfecting its Parachrom Bleu hairspring technology.

Family Notes: Although the Rolex GMT-Master was designed essentially for professional use, its combination of peerless functionality and rugged good looks has attracted a wider travelling public. As well as appreciating its ability to display different time zones, these travellers admire the robustness and versatile appearance that make the GMT-Master eminently suitable for globetrotting and, indeed, for any occasion.