Rolex unveils GMT-Master II collection
The 1950s saw the launch of iconic timepieces including Rolex GMT-Master originally designed to assist airline pilots in their navigation. The model is unmistakable for its emblematic bidirectional rotatable bezel with a 24-hour graduated Cerachrom insert, which makes it possible to read the time in two time zones at once. Launched at Baselworld 2018, the GMT-Master II collection includes an oystersteel model with the graduated bezel featuring a red and blue Cerachrom insert in ceramic, which recalls the colours of the original created in 1955.
The two other versions in everose gold and everose relesor (a combination of oystersteel and everose gold) are fitted with Cerachrom inserts in a black and newly developed brown ceramic. Since 2005, the Swiss brand has played a pioneering role in the development of special ceramics for mono bloc bezels and bezel inserts. These new materials are exceptionally resistant to scratches and corrosion while boasting intense colours unaffected by UV rays.
One of the challenges was to create the insert’s red hue, which cannot be obtained using stable mineral pigments. This led to the development of a complex internal process and the filing of several patent applications. Rolex also developed in-house high-technology production methods of the ceramic components.
The monobloc construction extends to the middle case of the robust oyster case, waterproof to a depth of 100m. The winding crown, fitted with a triple waterproofness system, screws down securely against the case.
Edged with fine fluting, the case back is hermetically screwed down with a special tool that allows only Rolex watchmakers to access the calibre 3285, a new in-house developed and manufactured movement with 10 patent applications filed over the course of its development.
The movement’s barrel architecture and the escapement’s efficiency provides a power reserve of approximately 70 hours.
Like all Rolex watches, the GMT-Master II is covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification, which testifies that each watch has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by the Swiss brand in its own laboratories according to its own standards.