1998 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16700 'Swiss Only' Full Set

The first GMT-Master in production ever was the ref.6542 and was introduced in 1954. But, perhaps one of the most popular vintage Rolex GMT-Master watches is this ref.1675. Introduced in 1959 and produced till 1980.

 

In 1988 Rolex released the 16700, it was only a GMT-Master, and the brand made it until 1999. The purpose of the 16700 was to replace the 16750.  At the time, the 16700 was cheaper than the 16710, which came out roughly together with the 16700. The 16700 was a replacement for the 16750 and intended to be a cheaper option to the 16710 which was released at the same time. The 16700 only came with a Pepsi or Black insert, not with a Coke insert. The 16700 was discontinued in 1999.

 

In 1998, Rolex stopped using tritium as the material to give luminosity to the hour markers and hands because of its levels of radioactivity. So, they introduced the Luminova. This material had a very short use, only until 1999 where Super-Luminova was then introduced. Between 1998 and 1999, Rolex changed from Swiss T<25 to Swiss, whereas in 1999 it changed again to Swiss Made. “Swiss Only” dials are hence rare and collectible.

This 16700 offered for sale here is one of the most beautiful examples we have ever seen. Featuring a flawless black glossy ‘Swiss only’ dial, Luminova hour markers and hands, and a gorgeous Pepsi faded insert making the face of this watch rich in contrasts.

 

The 40mm stainless steel case is very sharp, preserving factory finishes.

 

The watch is running great and keeping time.

 

The sapphire crystal has a minor scratch at 9.

 

It comes suited on the original 20mm Rolex Oyster 78790 stainless steel bracelet with 501B end links and clasp code U11 (11 links installed and 2 extra links)

 

Furthermore, it is presented as a very complete set which includes outer box with reference sticker, inner box, wallet, hang tags, Rolex Oyster manual, calendar and stamped guarantee papers showing it was sold in Cancun, Mexico, in 1998.