Rolex GMT-Master II 16710 "Coke" Discontinued
About This Watch
The Rolex GMT-Master II 16710 "Coke" features a red and black aluminum bezel insert that creates a bold, high-contrast appearance. Named for its resemblance to the Coca-Cola brand colors, this variant has a more aggressive, sporty character compared to the Pepsi version. The red and black combination clearly delineates day and night hours on the 24-hour bezel scale, making it arguably the most functionally legible GMT-Master bezel option. Like its Pepsi sibling, the aluminum insert develops a distinctive patina over time, with the red fading to a warm brick tone and the black softening slightly. The 16710 Coke was never offered in the ceramic era, making it unique to the aluminum-insert generation. The caliber 3185/3186 provides the independently adjustable hour hand that is essential for travelers. Production numbers for the Coke variant were lower than the Pepsi, and certain production years are particularly sought after. The 16710 Coke has developed a strong following among collectors who prefer its bold color contrast to the more traditional Pepsi combination, and its status as a discontinued, never-replicated configuration ensures continued appreciation in value.
In-Depth Review
# The Enduring Appeal of Rolex's Iconic GMT Tool Watch
Few watches have achieved the cultural permanence of the GMT-Master II reference 16710, colloquially known as the "Coke" for its distinctive red and black bezel insert. Introduced in 1989 as the successor to the original GMT-Master, this model refined what had become Rolex's definitive dual-time instrument for professional travelers. The 40mm Oystersteel case houses the robust caliber 3185 movement, delivering a solid 48-hour power reserve and the reliability that Rolex built its reputation upon. The bidirectional rotating bezel with its contrasting red aluminum remains functionally elegant—a design that has proven timeless rather than trendy. Sapphire crystal with a Cyclops magnifier, 100-meter water resistance, and the iconic Oyster bracelet complete a package that balances tool-watch practicality with understated luxury. What distinguishes the 16710 from its successors is precisely what makes it collectible: it represents the GMT-Master II before Rolex's subsequent material upgrades and ceramic bezel introductions fundamentally altered the line.
The 16710 appeals primarily to serious collectors and professional pilots or maritime personnel who value historical authenticity. Vintage examples serve those seeking entry into Rolex's GMT catalog without the premium demanded by newer ceramic references. However, at secondary market prices now hovering around sixteen thousand dollars—nearly triple the original MSRP—prospective buyers should carefully consider alternatives. The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean GMT or the Tudor Black Bay GMT offer compelling dual-time functionality with more modern construction at significantly lower acquisition costs. The 16710's appeal ultimately transcends specifications; it represents a specific moment in horological history when Rolex's design language achieved near-perfect balance.
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | Rolex 3185 |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 31 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 40.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 12.0mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel (904L Stainless Steel) |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Bezel | Bidirectional rotating, red and black aluminum insert |
| Dial Color | Black |
| Lug Width | 20mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 47.5mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 100m / 328ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster bracelet |
| Clasp | Oysterlock folding clasp |
| Weight | 142g |
| Complications |