New friend here, about to get a GMT2.

[Fly2002]

Hi all. What a great forum! I've been obsessed with eventually purchasing a Rolex for some years now. Closing on a new home now so I can't make any sudden financial movements due to the under writers that look at all that stuff.

I originally wanted a sub as all my family is in the sailing business and own subs. I chose the aviation path in life instead so the GMT is calling me!! Haha.

Any suggestions for good years or models to purchase from? Ie...."z" "a". I prefer the older style, pre 2007, but i plan on it being my daily wear for 30 plus years of life. So....

How old is too old for a daily wear watch for the next 30 years? I'm leaning toward the 16710 because I plan on purchasing different bezels to change out over time. I'm hoping for less than 5k but we'll see.

The closest AD is, well, not close so I'm using a trusted jeweler here in town. And I've tried to convince myself to buy new as to not worry about it (paperwork), but 7.5k is pretty steep for me. Ok let's be real...the wife!!!

Thank you for sharing any wisdom!

Eric

[kilyung]

Welcome Eric! Good call on the GMT. The 16710 is an excellent reference. With a few minor differences they are all pretty much the same. I'd honestly get the best deal. You can find a number of them for sale here on TRF from trusted sellers. Good luck in your search!

[Dan Pierce]

I'm gonna sound like a broken record but a 2001 thru 2003 ( series K, P, Y??) GMT II offers the best of both worlds, solid end links and lug holes. Lug holes allow for easy strap changes if you want to wear a NATO, leather, or different bracelet.


Welcome to TRF and glad to have you part of the 4 hand club!
dP

[springer]

How about a nice, semi-vintage, 16700 GMT with a sapphire crystal and quick-set date feature. The 16700 is now discontinued (1999) and was made alongside the 16710 GMT II for several years.

It was introduced during the late 1980's and replaced the acrylic crystal GMT 16750.

The 16700 is a great watch and has held its value very well due to the limited quantities in which it was produced. They are not easy to find as a complete set if that is your choosing, but they are out there. Prices vary from $4500 to $5500 based on condition and completeness of the set.

Good luck in your decision. The GMT's are my favorites also!

[gwalker]

IMHO buy as new and in the best condition you can afford. Remember most of the models from around 2000-2005 are in need of service and most probably haven't had one yet and that's $600 or so. If you want the 16710 Take time and look around. You should be able to find something for close to $5k. Personally I'd get the GMTIIc. They can be found for $6.5ish and the upgrades are worth it but seems like u like the older model.

[Fly2002]

Well thank you for the welcome gentlemen!!! Although I'm aware rolex's last forever, am I realistic in thinking that a later model 16710 would likely serve me best as it will be worn constantly and for a number of years?

Also...are ALL the dealers on this website reputable? I'm weary of buying online.

Eric

[nauticajoe]

Welcome! The GMTII is an excellent choice. You can certainly find them here in the FS section.

Happy Hunting!

[springer]

"IMHO buy as new and in the best condition you can afford. Remember most of the models from around 2000-2005 are in need of service and most probably haven't had one yet and that's $600 or so. If you want the 16710 Take time and look around. You should be able to find something for close to $5k. Personally I'd get the GMTIIc. They can be found for $6.5ish and the upgrades are worth it but seems like u like the older model. "


Service from Rolex now runs around $750 and up. Service from a reputable watchmaker is $250 to $350 in Texas and many parts of the USA.

[Fly2002]

Gwalker your beginning to sway me. I haven't thought about a used gmt2c. But once I get up to 6.5k, start thinking that I might as well go new for 7.5k.

Also my wrists are small. I remembered the gmt and subs being huge watches so I was concerned about wanting something only to find out later that it wouldn't look good on me. Well, I went to the jeweler yesterday and they are much smaller than I remember them being. I tried one on and lit up like a cheirstmas tree. My wife just rolled her eyes I think I'll give the c version a second glance.

Eric

[JohnBoy]

Hey Eric,
Welcome! Absolutely nothing wrong with choosing any of the 16700 series - they are not new anymore, but there is no shortage of really good ones on the market. Likewise, the TRF sellers are not new - they, too, are tried (by us) and true (or they just wouldn't last in this WIS-World). Browse TRF for watch sales and member/seller references. Good luck in your search!