Rolex GMT-Master II 16710 - ‘Bicchierini’ Black Dial - ‘Pepsi’ Red & Blue Bezel

In 1980, Rolex retired the legendary GMT-Master reference 1675 and introduced its successor, the 16750. Just two years later, the brand unveiled yet another GMT reference, not as a replacement for the 16750, but as a parallel, more advanced offering. This model, reference 16760, marked the debut of the GMT-Master II line. Nicknamed the 'Fat Lady' due to its thicker case, necessary to accommodate the new Caliber 3085, the 16760 introduced a major technical upgrade: for the first time, the hour hand could be adjusted independently of the GMT hand. This innovation, combined with the model's signature rotating 24-hour bezel—now also available in the red-and-black 'Coke' configuration—allowed the wearer to track up to three time zones simultaneously. In 1989, the second-generation GMT-Master II was introduced under reference 16710. Recognizing that the 16760 was too thick for most wrists, Rolex quickly redesigned the movement and developed the slimmer Caliber 3185, restoring more balanced and comfortable case proportions. The 16710 retained the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal introduced with the 16760, an improvement over the older plexiglass crystal. More long-lived than its predecessor, it remained in production until 2007, when Rolex unveiled the new ceramic 'Cerachrom' bezel. The example offered here dates to 2001 and sits within an interesting transitional period. Unlike the earliest 16710 models, which featured tritium and later Luminova lume, this watch is equipped with Swiss-made Super-LumiNova, offering improved brightness and longevity. It also features solid end links (SEL) on the bracelet, a modern and more robust upgrade, while still retaining lug holes on the case—a heritage detail from earlier tool-watch designs that would soon be phased out. Preserved in excellent condition, this example features the quintessential configuration for the GMT-Master: the iconic red-and-blue 'Pepsi' bezel paired with the ever-sporty and timeless Oyster bracelet. The watch is accompanied by its original Rolex punched warranty paper.