The Rolex GMT-Master II, a watch synonymous with global travel and enduring style, boasts a rich history. While the modern iterations garner significant attention, understanding the lineage requires exploring its predecessors. One such crucial model is the reference 16720, a GMT-Master II that subtly bridges the gap between earlier designs and the contemporary models we see today. This article delves into the specifics of the Rolex 16720, exploring its features, comparing it to its contemporaries (like the popular 16700), and examining its place within the broader Rolex GMT-Master lineage.
The 16720, produced from approximately 1984 to 1988, represents a transitional phase in the GMT-Master II's evolution. It retained several design cues from its predecessors, like the reference 16750, while subtly introducing elements that would become hallmarks of later models. One of the most significant features, shared across all professional Rolex watches, including the 16720, is its exceptional legibility. This is largely attributable to the use of Rolex's Chromalight display. The broad, luminous hands and hour markers, filled with this long-lasting luminescent material, ensure clear time-telling even in the most challenging low-light conditions. This feature, critical for pilots and travelers – the original target audience for the GMT-Master – remains a defining characteristic of Rolex's professional timepieces.
The case of the 16720 is typically 39mm in diameter, a size that many consider perfectly balanced for everyday wear. The stainless steel construction is robust and durable, reflecting Rolex's commitment to building watches capable of withstanding rigorous use. While not as heavily emphasized in marketing materials as some later models, the 16720’s sapphire crystal provided superior scratch resistance compared to the acrylic crystals found on earlier GMT-Masters. This upgrade contributed significantly to the watch's overall longevity and resilience.
Unlike its successor, the 16710, the 16720 did not feature a quickset date function. This means that to adjust the date, the wearer needed to advance the hour hand through a full 24-hour cycle. While this may seem inconvenient compared to modern quickset mechanisms, it's a characteristic that adds to the watch's vintage charm and reinforces its connection to earlier GMT-Master models. The movement within the 16720, typically the calibre 3085, is a robust and reliable automatic movement known for its accuracy and longevity.
Comparing the 16720 to its Siblings: The 16700
current url：https://kmaqgd.d857y.com/products/rolex-16720-39046