Rolex: Connecting The World
Rolex introduces a new variation of its GMT-Master II at Watches and Wonders 2024.
Words by Jamie McFadden
In the world of luxury timepieces, Rolex is consistently famed for their delivery of innovation and style. This year, at Watches and Wonders 2024, Rolex once again captivated watch enthusiasts and collectors by unveiling new variations of its iconic GMT-Master II. This renowned collection, celebrated for its dual time functionality, offers more than just a glance at another time zone. Rather, it creates an emotional connection, linking the wearer to a world beyond their own.
The latest additions to the GMT-Master II family include two stunning Oystersteel versions, each of which features a distinctive 24-hour graduated Cerachrom bezel insert in a stylish combination of grey and black ceramic. These exquisite timepieces are available with either the classic Oyster bracelet or the elegant Jubilee bracelet, offering a choice of styles to suit any wearer.
At the heart of the GMT-Master II lies the calibre 3285, a cutting-edge, in-house movement created by Rolex, that powers the display of an additional time zone in a 24-hour format, along with the date, hours, minutes and seconds.
Originally crafted as a navigational aid for professionals crisscrossing the globe, the GMT-Master quickly became the quintessential timepiece for discerning travellers. Its unique design, featuring the bi directional rotatable bezel and a dual-colour graduated insert, symbolises the seamless transition from day to night. This functionality, combined with its distinctive and now world famous aesthetic, has established the GMTMaster as a true ‘tool watch’, with its evolution reflecting the increasing demands of collectors for technical excellence and sophisticated design.
Since the launch of the original GMT-Master in 1955, Rolex has continually pushed the boundaries of innovation. The introduction of the GMT-Master II in 1982 marked a significant advancement, allowing the hour hand to be set independently, a feature that further cemented its status as a must-have for the modern globetrotter. This evolution is a testament to the Rolex commitment to advancing technology for the benefit of its wearers, ensuring that each piece is both a functional tool and a luxurious accessory.
The GMT-Master II is not just a watch; it is a symbol of global sophistication, reflecting the wearer’s passion for exploration and their appreciation for timeless elegance. For the affluent traveller, it serves as both a functional companion and a statement piece, encapsulating the essence of luxury and adventure in one remarkable wristwatch. With Rolex’s unwavering dedication to excellence, the GMT-Master II stands as a beacon of innovation and style in the world of horology.
