Rolex GMT-Master II 16710 Pepsi Box & Papers - 2006

The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 16710 is one of the most beloved tool watches Rolex ever produced — the final aluminium-bezel evolution of the GMT line before the ceramic Cerachrom era took over in 2007. Originally launched in 1989 and built through 2007, the 16710 paired the upgraded calibre 3185 with the iconic two-tone bezel and earned a cult following among collectors who prefer the warmth and patina-potential of an aluminium insert over the modern ceramic look.

This particular example is from 2006, carrying a Z-serial that places it firmly in the final production years — the matte rehaut era, with the engraved Rolex repeat ring around the dial opening. It wears the classic Pepsi configuration: the blue and red 24-hour aluminium bezel insert that has defined the GMT-Master since 1955. The dial is glossy black with applied luminous hour markers, Mercedes hands, and the unmistakable red GMT pointer sweeping across the dial.

The 40 mm Oystersteel case is in very sharp, unpolished condition. The facets between the brushed top surfaces and polished bevels remain crisp and well-defined — a clear marker that this case has not been opened up by a polishing wheel. Normal signs of honest wear are present in the form of light surface marks, consistent with a watch that has been worn and enjoyed rather than babied. The Oyster bracelet with Oysterclasp shows the typical signs of use across the centre links and clasp area but remains tight and structurally sound.

The watch comes complete with the original Rolex box and papers — and importantly, the green serial hangtag is still present. Finding a 16710 with the original hangtag intact two decades after delivery is increasingly rare and a meaningful collector detail, as most have been discarded or lost over the years.

Specifications

• Reference: 16710
• Year: 2006
• Movement: Rolex calibre 3185, automatic, 50-hour power reserve
• Case: 40 mm Oystersteel, screw-down crown and caseback
• Bezel: Bidirectional rotating, 24-hour aluminium insert in blue and red (Pepsi)
• Dial: Glossy black with applied luminous hour markers, Mercedes hands, red GMT hand
• Crystal: Sapphire with Cyclops lens over the date
• Bracelet: Oyster in Oystersteel with Oysterclasp
• Water resistance: 100 m

Condition

Very sharp, unpolished case with crisp facets and original bevels. Normal signs of wear consistent with age — light surface marks on the case and bracelet. Bezel insert in excellent condition with strong colour retention. Dial and hands clean and original. Movement running strong.

Set Includes

• Watch
• Original Rolex box
• Original papers
• Original green serial hangtag