First timer advice: GMT

[pdesjardins]

New member, first post. Apologies in advance for my ignorance in these issues.

I'm thinking about purchasing my first Rolex and hoping it can serve as my daily watch. I purchased my first non quartz watch last year, a mid 90s speed master that I have enjoyed, but to be honest as a daily watch it seems a little dated. It looks and works great, but size and style are a little smaller and less sporty then I now prefer. I payed what I think was market value and ended up needing a service in the first 6 months that ended up being about 30% of my initial purchase price. This amount isn't breaking my bank, but it did sour me a little in my purchase. In hindsight I probably should have assumed it as part of the original purchase.

Now I'm looking for a GMT II as a daily driver. I'm torn between a new/slightly used 116710 in black or a 10-20 year old 16710 with multiple Pepsi/coke/black insert options. Price seems ball park the same (6-7k), but the versatility of the older watch seems like a better option. If I could get a Pepsi/coke option in ss new I would.

My questions are, will I feel like 16710 is dated when I'm wearing it everyday? Will i get a better "feeling" from a newer but singular look newer watch?

As a secondary question, how does one go about trying on non current models? I have been to ADs and worn the new 116710s, but how do I find older models to compare if I'm not ready to buy yet? I'm in Washington DC if it matters.
Thanks in advance.



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[Tools]

If you think that a Speedy is small and dated, I don't see how you would think otherwise with an early GMT

[locutus49]

agree with Tools. If you like larger watches, you should go with a modern black GMT. You don't want to make a second mistake. For sure you should try on an older Pepsi before buying.

My other thought, and others may disagree, is that if servicing costs are an issue or nuisance to you based on your last watch, you may want to stick with a modern GMT.

Just some thoughts to keep in mind.

[Lordofrolex]

Hard choice. I would go with the modern though. You already have an older watch. A little change is good.

[strafer_kid]

The GMT masters are all super watches right across the range, and this is coming from a Submariner/Seadweller fanatic! The latest ceramic bezel version does feel a bit bigger on the wrist and some people would say that it is less tool like than the earlier versions, probably due to the way in which Rolex have incrementally changed it. The earlier versions like the 1675 and 16750 feel to me slightly lighter than the 16700/16710 though that might in part just be my imagination. In any event a good 16700/16710 would be a great choice and is very versatile indeed. These are also starting to command very good prices though still quite a few around. My 16700 is now probably my daily wearer. I would advise you take your time until,you can try one on....good luck!

[japenney]

I would go with the newer model as it has the maxi case and feels and looks a bit larger compared to the 16710. It seems like you would appreciate that. It will be difficult to try on a 16710 but if you can find any pre-ceramic dive cased watch (gmt, sub, seadweller, etc) you will have an idea how it looks. Again I would recommend the ceramic for you as it wears larger.

[an12dyw]

Depends what you like the look of in my opinion, And 6k-7k is a nice amount to buy your selve either of the watch options you descibed, Also if your wearing a lighter speedmaster watch you will notice the weight difference of the gmt, pepsi. Maybes a datejust ii may be an other option for you?

[Watchgeek5000]

There is a huge following for the pre ceramic GMT's, but that aside, go with a new GMT C. Larger presence and less maintenance (for now).

[No SUBctitute]

Originally Posted by pdesjardins

If I could get a Pepsi/coke option in ss new I would.

....and in his first post he nails one of the most common sentiments of TRF members....

Would the Pepsi/Coke stainless steel GMT waiting list be longer than the SS ceramic Daytona?

[Yogi20]

I wore my new in 2004 GMT2 every day for ten years, super every day watch

[Wcdhtwn]

Older GMT's are great but there is a substantial difference compared to current GMT's. The bracelet is flimsy feeling (but it's not actually flimsy or cheap) and the crown is much smaller. I bought a 116710 and never evaluated a 16710 so when I picked one up for the first time the differences were glaring. Based on what you've said about your Omega stick with a six digit version.

[amg55]

I'd go with the newer model, save yourself the potential need of another service that you might need with the older model.

[Pharaoh_83]

I'd go with the newer models. You can even pick up the explorer ii 216570 for that price brand new from an AD. Gives you gmt functionality and definitely tough enough for everyday use

[pdesjardins]

I should clarify, the speedy I have is not a pro, rather a smaller version similar to the reduced. I bought that one because I don't like a "Big" look. I guess my question is more about the feel and I think you all have answered my questions. I still think you need to put my hands on a 5 digit model before I decide. Can anyone clarify what other models would be similar size/ feel to the 16710?


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[second time]

Newer model GMT, the bracelet is light years ahead of the old 'tuna can' bracelet.

[Muzz]

The 6 digit models feel larger on the wrist no question. But there is something special about the 5 digit models on the wrist that you will not find with the newer models.

Please rest assured that servicing a 5 or a 6 digit GMT will be the same cost, there is noo difference. I am mentioning this as I understand from your post you are buying used.

Ideally I would try on both before deciding if I was inexperienced with the models.

[Le Chef]

If you want a GMT for function rather than aesthetics then look at a used Panerai 233 as an option.

[breitlings]

The new one is cool. I would get in a two tone gold black. But I think you should buy a new breitling avenger gmt ii at an ad and a 16710. As modern as the rolex is it is still a classic design. The avenger is new. a more modern size at 43 mm and has domed double sided ar.

The 16710 is a watch that everyone should own. It is perfect on the wrist as a daily wearer.

[breitlings]

Here is a 16710 in comparison to the 43mm avenger gmt ii above on same wrist.

[tomchicago]

if you can find a good 16710, go with it. mine was a pepsi oyster from the factory, but RSC sold me a jubilee bracelet for it as well as a black insert. I enjoy changing up the bracelets and bezels from time to time. you can't do that with the 116710. but, since the ceramic pepsi came out, 16710's have jumped in price.