The Last Rolex from Caracas? How a GMT Master II Made Its Way to the Heart of Europe.
When an object transcends its material form and becomes a vessel for memories, legacies, and enduring bonds, it attains a priceless status. Such is the case with a particular Rolex GMT-Master II, reference 16700, that has woven its way through the lives of a father and son, spanning continents and generations.
Rodrigo Bressane
5/23/20241 min read
In 1999, amidst the vibrant streets of Caracas, Venezuela, a young business owner made a pivotal purchase that would forever intertwine his life with a horological icon. He walked into the opulent JoyerĂa Prestige during a time of economic growth and social dynamism, and acquired his first and only Rolex – the GMT-Master II, reference 16700.
Two decades later, that magnificent timepiece found its way to the wrist of the businessman's son, now forging his own path in Europe. With each tick of the seconds hand, he felt the weight of his father's journey, successes, and values immortalized in this object. The Rolex GMT-Master II became a timeless reminder of a precious legacy.
The reference 16700, with its classic design, two-tone case, and iconic "Pepsi" bezel, stands as a testament to Rolex's watchmaking excellence. The vibrant red and blue bezel serves not just as an aesthetic marvel but also as a functional tool for tracking day and night across multiple time zones – a feature that has made the GMT-Master II a favorite among pilots and frequent travelers.
At the heart of this iconic timepiece beats the Rolex Caliber 3175 movement, renowned for its precision and reliability. Powered by an automatic movement with a 48-hour power reserve, and equipped with hacking and date quick-set functions, the GMT-Master II was crafted for those who demand unwavering accuracy. The independently adjustable 24-hour hand allows for effortless tracking of a second time zone.
The reference 16700, with its classic design, two-tone case, and iconic "Pepsi" bezel, stands as a testament to Rolex's watchmaking excellence. The vibrant red and blue bezel serves not just as an aesthetic marvel but also as a functional tool for tracking day and night across multiple time zones – a feature that has made the GMT-Master II a favorite among pilots and frequent travelers.
At the heart of this iconic timepiece beats the Rolex Caliber 3175 movement, renowned for its precision and reliability. Powered by an automatic movement with a 48-hour power reserve, and equipped with hacking and date quick-set functions, the GMT-Master II was crafted for those who demand unwavering accuracy. The independently adjustable 24-hour hand allows for effortless tracking of a second time zone.