The Rolex GMT-Master II is a legendary watch, instantly recognizable for its iconic bidirectional rotating bezel. Among the various iterations, the "Coke" bezel – with its red and blue ceramic insert – holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. But within the realm of Coke bezel GMT-Master IIs, a particularly sought-after variant exists: the rare stick dial. This article delves into the intricacies of this highly collectible timepiece, exploring its history, design features, and what makes it so desirable among watch enthusiasts. We’ll examine its position within the broader context of the Rolex GMT-Master II lineage, specifically the 16710 reference, and consider its current market value and investment potential.
The Rolex GMT-Master II Lineage: A Brief History
Before focusing on the specific rarity of the stick dial Coke GMT-Master II, it's crucial to understand its place within Rolex's rich history. The GMT-Master, first introduced in the 1950s, was designed in collaboration with Pan Am to meet the needs of pilots navigating across multiple time zones. The original models featured a simpler design, but over the years, the GMT-Master evolved, culminating in the GMT-Master II, which improved functionality by allowing independent adjustment of the 24-hour hand.
The reference 16710, produced from 1988 to 2007, represents a significant chapter in the GMT-Master II's story. This generation saw the introduction of various dial variations, bezel colors, and hand styles, making it a highly diverse and collectible series. The "Coke" bezel, with its vibrant red and blue aluminum insert, became particularly popular, and remains so today.
The 16710 Rolex GMT Master II: A Collector's Dream
The Rolex GMT Master II 16710 Coke is a highly coveted model amongst collectors. The combination of the iconic Coke bezel and the robust 3185 movement made it a popular choice. The 16710's appeal lies in its balance of classic design and reliable functionality. Its slightly larger 40mm case size, compared to some earlier models, provides a more substantial feel on the wrist. The watch's versatility makes it suitable for both casual and formal occasions, further enhancing its desirability.
Within the 16710 lineage, however, subtle variations exist that dramatically impact a watch's value. One of these is the dial. While many 16710 Coke models feature baton (or "dagger") hour markers, a smaller subset features what collectors refer to as "stick" hour markers. These markers are thinner and more streamlined than the baton markers, giving the dial a cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic.
The Rare Stick Dial: Defining its Distinctiveness
The distinction between baton and stick dials may seem subtle at first glance, but it’s this very subtlety that accounts for the significant price difference. The stick markers are noticeably slimmer, lacking the slightly broader, more pronounced shoulders found on the baton markers. This slight difference in design, coupled with the relatively limited production run of 16710 Coke models with stick dials, has made them highly sought after by collectors.
The exact production numbers of 16710 Coke watches with stick dials are unknown, adding to their mystique and desirability. The rarity is further amplified by the fact that Rolex didn't explicitly market or categorize this dial variation. Its existence is more of a subtle variation within the broader 16710 production, making it a true hidden gem for those in the know.
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