Rolex GMT Master II

Why we love this watch

The Rolex GMT-Master 16753 two-tone has quietly become one of the most desirable vintage pieces among collectors, and for good reason. Introduced in the late 1970s as part of Rolex’s evolution of the iconic GMT line, it bridged the gap between rugged tool watch and luxury travel companion. Built for professional pilots yet embraced by the style-conscious traveler, it introduced the Calibre 3075, the first GMT-Master movement with a quickset date. The mix of stainless steel and yellow gold gave the watch a distinctive character during a time when two-tone designs defined sophistication. The black-dial version, paired with a black-and-gold rotating bezel, offered a sleeker, more understated look than the famous “Root Beer” variant. Today, its period-correct charm, technical heritage, and growing scarcity have made the 16753 a standout in the vintage Rolex market that is admired not just for its looks, but for the important role it played in the evolution of the GMT-Master line.