Guide to GMT Bezel – A Closer Look

In the realm of horology few elements command as much attention and admiration as the iconic GMT bezel of the Rolex GMT-Master. Renowned for its functionality and style the GMT bezel serves as a beacon of sophistication and precision. Allow us to take you on a journey through the evolution and significance of this timeless feature.

Discovering the GMT Bezel: A Symbol of Excellence

Since its launch in 2010, Rubber B has been at the forefront of innovation in watch accessories. In 2011, they made history by introducing the first-ever rubber strap for the Rolex GMT-Master, setting a new standard in the industry.

The GMT bezel, an iconic feature of Rolex timepieces, has long been associated with excellence and precision. Rubber B’s introduction of rubber straps for the GMT-Master represented a groundbreaking fusion of style and functionality, redefining the perception of timepiece accessories. With a dedication to craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to quality, Rubber B continues to embody the essence of European luxury and sophistication in every aspect of its designs.

Exploring the Endless Variations: GMT Bezel Styles

The versatility of the GMT-Master extends beyond its functionality, encompassing a diverse array of bezel styles that cater to every taste and preference. From the classic Pepsi and Coke bezels to the sophisticated Batman and Root Beer variants, each iteration tells a unique story and reflects the wearer’s individuality.

The Pepsi bezel, characterized by its striking red and blue hues, pays homage to the iconic soft drink logo and evokes a sense of nostalgia for bygone eras of aviation and adventure. Conversely, the Coke bezel exudes a bold and dynamic energy with its black and red color scheme, reminiscent of the world’s most beloved cola.

For those with a penchant for luxury, the GMT-Master offers a selection of gem-set bezels adorned with precious diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. These exquisite creations elevate the GMT-Master to new heights of opulence and sophistication, embodying the epitome of horological excellence.

Here’s a comprehensive list of Rolex GMT-Master bezel types, including their names, corresponding watch references, and the years of their launch:

2020 -2024

• 126710GRNR – GMT-Master II “Black and Gray” (Introduced in 2024)
• 126711CHNR – GMT-Master II “Root Beer” (Initially launched in 2018, continued through 2024)
• 126713GRNR – GMT-Master II “Green and Black” (Introduced in 2023)
• 126718GRNR – GMT-Master II “Green and Gold” (Introduced in 2024)
• 126720VTNR – GMT-Master II “Vert Noir” Startbuck/Sprit (Introduced in 2023)
• 126755SARU – GMT-Master II (Introduced in 2024)
• 126719BLRO – GMT-Master II “Pepsi” (Initially launched in 2019, continued through 2024)
• 126715CHNR – GMT-Master II “Root Beer” (Initially launched in 2018, continued through 2024)
• 126713 – GMT-Master II (Introduced in 2024)
  

2010 – 2019

• 126719BLRO – GMT-Master II “Pepsi” (2019)
• 126710BLRO – GMT-Master II “Pepsi” (2018)
• 116719BLRO – GMT-Master II “Pepsi” (2014)
• 126711CHNR – GMT-Master II “Root Beer” (2018)
• 126715CHNR – GMT-Master II “Root Beer” (2018)
• 126710BLNR – GMT-Master II “Batman” (2018)
• 116710BLNR – GMT-Master II “Batman” (2013)
  

• Batman (Blue and Black Cerachrom Bezel)
  • Watch Reference: GMT-Master II 116710BLNR, 126710BLNR
  • Year of Launch: 2013
• Pepsi (Blue and Red Cerachrom Bezel)
  • Watch Reference: GMT-Master II 116719BLRO, 126719BLRO
  • Year of Launch: 2014
• Root Beer (Brown and Black Cerachrom Bezel)
  • Watch Reference: GMT-Master II 126715CHNR, 126711CHNR
  • Year of Launch: 2018
    

Pre – 2010

1. Pepsi (Blue and Red Aluminum Bezel)
   • Watch Reference: GMT-Master 1675, 16700, 16710
   • Year of Launch: 1959
2. Coke (Black and Red Aluminum Bezel)
   • Watch Reference: GMT-Master II 16760, 16710
   • Year of Launch: 1982
3. Root Beer (Brown and Gold Aluminum Bezel)
   • Watch Reference: GMT-Master 16753
   • Year of Launch: 1980
4. Blue and Red (Blue and Red Bakelite Bezel)
   • Watch Reference: GMT-Master 6542
   • Year of Launch: 1955
5. Burgundy (Burgundy Bakelite Bezel)
   • Watch Reference: GMT-Master 6542
   • Year of Launch: 1958
6. Brown (Brown Aluminum Bezel)
   • Watch Reference: GMT-Master 16753
   • Year of Launch: Early 1960s
7. Blueberry (Blue Aluminum Bezel)
   • Watch Reference: GMT-Master 1675
   • Year of Launch: 1970s
8. Black (Black Cerachrom Bezel)
   • Reference: GMT-Master II 116710LN, 116718, 116713
   • Year of Launch: 2005
9. White Gem-Set (White Diamond and Blue Sapphire)
   • Watch Reference: GMT-Master II 116759SA
   • Year of Launch: 2006
10. Ice (White Baguette-Cut Diamond)
    • Watch Reference: GMT-Master II 116769TBR
    • Year of Launch: 2007
      

Unveiling the Secrets of the GMT Bezel: Functionality and Style

At its core, the GMT bezel is a marvel of functionality, allowing users to track multiple time zones with ease and precision. Its 24-hour markings and bi-directional rotation feature make it an indispensable tool for travelers and professionals alike. But beyond its practicality, the GMT bezel is also a symbol of style and elegance, with its distinctive color schemes and designs adding a touch of luxury to any wrist.

Exploring the Evolution of the GMT Bezel: From Bakelite to Cerachrom

Over the years, the GMT bezel has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from humble beginnings to cutting-edge innovation. From the early days of Bakelite inserts to the introduction of aluminum bezels, each iteration has pushed the boundaries of design and performance. Today, the GMT-Master’s bezel features state-of-the-art Cerachrom ceramic inserts, renowned for their durability and longevity.

Navigating the Market: Acquiring Your Own Piece of Horological History

For enthusiasts and collectors alike, acquiring a Rolex GMT-Master with its iconic bezel is a dream come true. Whether through authorized dealers or the secondary market, owning a piece of horological history is a testament to one’s passion and appreciation for fine craftsmanship. However, caution is advised, and buyers should always seek reputable sources to ensure authenticity and integrity.

The GMT Bezel’s Scientific Origins

In order to know how to operate a GMT watch, and correctly use its bezel, it is ideal to know what exactly GMT stands for. In this instance, GMT stands for “Greenwich Mean Time.” Greenwich was the site of a prominent observatory that, in 1884, was declared the Prime Meridian as a result of the International Meridian Conference that was held in Washington, D.C. that year.

The goal of this conference was to create a standardized set of time zones so that science could be conducted on a more international scale. Britain was also expanding its naval influence at the time, so creating a system by which the Royal Navy could synchronize its movements was absolutely essential for military purposes.

Learn how to use a GMT watch.

The Expansion of Commercial Aviation and Pilot’s Watches

For many years, these watches were primarily the provision of sailors and military men, as very few people needed to know how to tell time in multiple time zones. With the advent of commercial aviation in the 1930’s and 40’s, this would change. Initially, pilots would begin utilizing these watches, as it would allow them to make sure that flights were running on time across different time zones.

GMT Bezels Become More Commercially Available – And Useful

In the late 1950’s and early 60’s, regular people began to start purchasing these watches and using them for work purposes. The reason for this is that people began conducting business on an international scale, and the idea of “business class” began to become prominent among the airlines. Now, both passenger and pilot had a reason to know what time it was across multiple countries.

The GMT Bezel in Modern Times

In today’s landscape, these watches are still very much in demand, but not because of their GMT bezels. Rather, it is a result of their color scheme – the red and blue and red and black bezels have become affectionately known as the “Pepsi” and “Coke” models, respectively.

Due to the popularity of these watches, it can take years to purchase them through an authorized dealer once you have been added to a waitlist. They can also be purchased on the secondary market as well, for a considerable upcharge.

How to Use a GMT Bezel

Using a GMT bezel is relatively simple, as long as you know the time difference between the two zones. Once the time on your watch is correctly set, simply adjust the bezel forward or backward one click for each hour. If done correctly, your watch should now tell you the correct time in the secondary time zone that you would like to know.

Learn how to use a GMT watch.

What Separates Rubber B From Other Watch Straps?

Rubber B produces custom rubber watch bands for timepieces from a variety of leading global watchmakers, including Rolex, Tudor, Omega, Patek Philippe, and Panerai, as well as several others. Their complete product catalog features straps in a plethora of different colors, textures, and styles, and each one of its watch bands is made solely from 100% vulcanized rubber.

In contrast to companies that emulate or attempt to copy its products from inception, Rubber B is the single innovative company behind the production and creation of integrated rubber straps for luxury watches (such as Rolex in 2010) that previously only came with factory leather or metal bracelets.

No fillers or additives are used in Rubber B’s watch straps, and each strap is non-toxic and non-allergenic, as well as being FDA and BVGG compliant. Rubber B also offers both domestic and international shipping to its clients based on their current location.

Do You Need a Custom Rubber Watch Band For Your Luxury Watch? Visit Rubber B Today

For those who would like to learn more about Rubber B’s complete list of products, shipping policies, and pricing, or have questions about their custom rubber watch straps, please visit the Rubber B website today for more information. One of their valued team members will be happy to answer any inquiries promptly.

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