The year 2005 marked a significant milestone in Rolex history: the 50th anniversary of the iconic GMT-Master. To commemorate this occasion, Rolex unveiled a truly special timepiece – the GMT-Master II 116718LN with a striking green bezel insert and matching dial. This wasn't just another iteration of the GMT-Master; it was a meticulously crafted tribute to a half-century of pioneering travel and horological excellence. This article delves into the details of this remarkable watch, exploring its design, significance, and its position within the wider context of Rolex's anniversary editions, including the much-discussed Rolex Submariner 50th Anniversary models.
The 116718LN, crafted from 18-karat yellow gold, immediately distinguishes itself from its predecessors. The warm glow of the gold case perfectly complements the vibrant green of the bezel and dial. This bold color choice wasn't arbitrary; it harkened back to the original GMT-Master's "Pepsi" bezel, a bi-color design featuring red and blue, symbolizing the two hemispheres. The green, however, represented a fresh, modern interpretation, a nod to the watch's enduring legacy while simultaneously projecting a distinctly contemporary aesthetic.
The green dial itself is a masterpiece of subtle detail. The luminous hour markers, meticulously applied, provide exceptional legibility, even in low-light conditions. The hands, also luminous, are elegantly shaped and perfectly balanced against the dial's design. The date window, subtly integrated at 3 o'clock, adds a practical element without detracting from the overall aesthetic harmony. The cyclops lens over the date magnifies the date for easy reading, a hallmark feature of many Rolex models.
Beyond its striking aesthetics, the 116718LN boasts the robust reliability and precision expected from a Rolex. It houses the calibre 3186, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its accuracy and dependability. This movement, like all Rolex movements, undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its performance meets the brand's exacting standards. The watch's water resistance, rated to 100 meters (330 feet), further underlines its versatility and suitability for a range of activities.
The 116718LN's significance extends beyond its technical specifications and design. It represents a pivotal moment in Rolex's history, a celebration of a watch that had become synonymous with global travel and exploration. The GMT-Master, with its independently adjustable 24-hour hand, revolutionized the way pilots and travelers tracked multiple time zones, making it an indispensable tool for those traversing the globe. The 50th-anniversary edition served as a fitting tribute to this legacy, solidifying the GMT-Master's position as a timeless icon.
Comparing the GMT-Master II 50th Anniversary to the Rolex Submariner 50th Anniversary:
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