The GMT Master II ref. 16710 is one of the most iconic and influential examples of the brand’s multi-time zone pilot’s watch. It brought an upgraded case and movement to the line, making it a huge success and leading to its impressive production run of almost twenty years. The ref. 16710 was then replaced by the ref. 116710 in the late 2000s as a completely new generation of Rolex GMT-Master tool watches began to make an appearance with a brand new case and bracelet design, improved materials, and a new movement.Rolex developed the GMT-Master in the early 1950s at the request of Pan Am Airlines. Its release came during the dawn of international flight. The famous air carrier required a dual-time wristwatch to issue their pilots, and the GMT-Master was born. The GMT-Master II was released a number of years later in 1983 with the ref. 16760, and brought with it independent hour hands that allow the wearer to read two time zones on the dial and a third on the bezel.The first GMT-Master II ref. 16760 featured a bulkier case and is often referred to by avid collectors as the “Fat Lady” or “Sophia Loren.” In 1989, Rolex would release a refined variation of the Fat Lady GMT in the form of the sleeker reference Rolex 16710 with a thinner case and movement. The ref. 16710 was well-received among collectors for its upgraded case and movement, and it would go on to become one of the most successful GMT-Master II models, remaining in production for nearly twenty years.A completely redesigned version of the stainless steel Rolex GMT-Master II was introduced in 2007, which meant the discontinuation of the long-running ref. 16710. The Rolex 116710 is similar in design as its 5-digit predecessor with an all-steel finish, a perpetual movement with independent hour hands, and a bidirectional bezel; however, that’s where its similarities end. The ref. 116710 is almost an entirely new watch and boasts a redesigned bezel, case, bracelet, and dial, as well as the newer Caliber 3186 perpetual movement.
I have reviewed several Omega watches on my blog, they are all Planet Ocean models, which are the latest modern Omega Seamaster collection. If you are looking for something that is in the blood of Omega Seamaster, then this one is. The watch here is an Omega that has inherited the most authentic features of Seamaster 300 series, but its design also meets the aesthetic view of modern people. The watch being reviewed is an ultimate replica, I do not know which exact factory it is from, but its quality and replicating level are very high, which could be even compared with Blancpain Fifty Fathoms from Noob factory. The replica Omega is in black, there is also a blue version.It is the best 41mm Omega replica watch I have ever seen. 316L stainless steel case has polished lugs on front, the sides are brushed. The wave-shaped bezel is different from Rolex Submariner’s small clicks. The bezel is rotatable and has white deep engravings on the ceramic insert. Please check the pearl on the bezel, it is also different from Submariner’s, the latter looks more raised and round. Seeing from the side, the case is cut very well and has beautiful arc lines. The crown, which is protected by two steel guards, seems to be better integrated into the case. On the other side of the case, there is another crown at 10 o’clock, it is for Helium valve release.
