Help buying: GMT-II 18k gold pre-owned

[cl600599]

Hi,

I am looking to purchase a solid 18k gold GMT Master 2. It has to be pre-owned because I do not want to spend $33k+ on a brand new one.

I need help choosing the year. The reason is, this model has used two movements since its production start: 3185 and 3186. I did some research and saw that the movement change occurred in late 2007(late Z-series and the M-series).

Is the 3186 worth spending more money on?

Is Sant Blanc in Branson, MO a good place to buy this watch? They look like my #1 choice to buy as of right now.

Any reply would be greatly appreciated by me.

Thank you

-Kyle

[Michael T]

Correct me if I am wrong but wasn't the 3185 and then the 3186 carryover in a few late stainless non ceramic 16710's and that the GMT ceramics starting with 116718 had the newer 3186 exclusively?

[Clutch Cargo]

Consider buying from one of the trusted sellers on this site.

[Jhquek]

The current model is 116718 which is of a bigger case size (more solid gold) and solid clasp with the 3186 movement.
Earlier model 16718 which is the previous model is of a smaller case size, 'tuna can' bracelet clasp, for the movement there's varying between 3185 and 3186 (later serials z/m)

google for gmt master history for some more details on the series of watches.

[busytimmy]

Go for the 116718 and get it through one of the sponsored sellers on this forum.

[Gagebuilder]

Questions like this is why I got interested in horticulture.

3186 was introduced in 2005 and the first watch it went into was the anniversary GMT, i.e. the all gold GMT with a ceramic bezel. So it comes down to if you prefer the ceramic bezel GMT or the slightly older (3185, introduced in 1988) aluminum bezel, at least for gold.

If you are looking at SS then, yes, there were some 3186 movements put into the older style aluminum bezel watches. They have gotten overpriced du to their "collectibility." All ceramic bezel watches have the 3186 movement.

From a user/owner standpoint, either movement is quite robust and will outlive you if properly cared for.

I know Sant Blanc (forget the owners name, someone else here, I know, knows) were good people 5 years ago, but I have had no dealings since.

Some interesting reading, I have both movements and see no "leaps and bounds" with the Parachrom Blu hairspring.

http://www.minus4plus6.com/paracromblu16710.htm

[77T]

I would not pay extra just for the 3186 movement. The delta in costs has to do more prices has more to do with the heavier case and better bracelet clasp and market demand.

You can look in the TRF Reference Library for good technical discussions on 3185 vs. 3186. Briefly, both have the same amount of power reserve, jeweled axles and COSC performance. Both just as accurate.

It really boils down to 3185 has a Nivarox hairspring, and coupled time setting and GMT function. The 3186 has Parachrom blue hairspring and an extra plate to decouple the time setting mechanism from the 24 hand. You can set the hours quicker due to a little different gearing.

You can also look into TRF Who's Who to search on Sant Blanc. I have never bought from them as their pricing is a bit higher than our own trusted sellers here.

Much success in your search.

[cl600599]

Hi,

The 116718 is the model I was referring to. But I thought they made the watch with the 3185 until 2007ish then put in the 3186. Maybe I was wrong. I will check out the TRF sellers, thank you.

[boost2perfection]

I think the 3186 movement is overrated.

[joli160]

The 116718 with either movement would make me very happy

[theken]

It is my understanding that ALL ceramic bezel GMTIIs, references 116710, 116713, 116718 and the newly released 116719 use the same 3186 movement.

[Im Lauf der Zeit]

Originally Posted by theken

It is my understanding that ALL ceramic bezel GMTIIs, references 116710, 116713, 116718 and the newly released 116719 use the same 3186 movement.

This is true. What the OP really needs to first make clear is if he wants an Alu or Ceramic bezel and take it from there.

[cl600599]

I would say I got the information I needed. Thanks for the advise everyone. I appreciate it.

[Racerdj]

I was very close to purchasing my WG Sub from Sant Blanc in Branson, MO. Their prices were on the high side but after requesting HD pictures and talking with them on the phone, they came down in price. I decided to go new due to the price difference. They seem to have very nice used pieces.

[wm5382]

Here is a pic to inspire you...

[cl600599]

Originally Posted by wm5382

Here is a pic to inspire you...

Haha thank you. I have went to my surrounding AD's enough for them to recognize me by now. I like your Patek too, you have a great collection.