GMT Master vs Master II Question

[kittysoman2013]

Hi folks. I’m considering buying a GMT-Master 16700. Year 97-98. Are there any red flags I should be aware of when comparing the Master I vs Master II? As I understand, this was the last year the Master I was produced before Rolex released the Master II. Any differences in the quality of parts between the I and the II? Obviously, no 3rd time zone, but any differences between power reserve or waterproof depth? Any thoughts are most appreciated! Thanks!

[Tools]

That isn't quite correct.

The GMT 16700 and the GMT II were produced side-by-side from the late '80s until ~1999, so you could have had either one for more than a decade.

Both were made to the same standards with the GMT using a 3175 movement and the GMT II using the jump-hour 3185 movement.

[jaisonline]

@kittysoman2013 ,

Historic and vintage topics aside, I prefer the GMT II's 3185 movement due to the far quicker date set (hour jumps).

[Water Wonderland]

Originally Posted by jaisonline

@kittysoman2013 ,

Historic and vintage topics aside, I prefer the GMT II's 3185 movement due to the far quicker date set (hour jumps).

I thought the GMT I actually had a quick set date. Not sure how that would be quicker on the II.

[roviw]

Originally Posted by Water Wonderland

I thought the GMT I actually had a quick set date. Not sure how that would be quicker on the II.

The GMT changes it date just by pulling the crown out one stop and slowly turning to change the date.

With the GMT 2 you pull the crown out one notch, when you rotate it the hour hand rotates around the dial and at each pass of midnight the date changes.

[Water Wonderland]

Originally Posted by roviw

The GMT changes it date just by pulling the crown out one stop and slowly turning to change the date.

With the GMT 2 you pull the crown out one notch, when you rotate it the hour hand rotates around the dial and at each pass of midnight the date changes.

I know. I was asking how setting the date on the II would be quicker than the I.

[roviw]

Originally Posted by Water Wonderland

I know. I was asking how setting the date on the II would be quicker than the I.

sorry I was aiming it at the OP, I realised you knew it, quoted the wrong person !

[Tools]

The GMT Master has a quick-set date, the GMT II does not.