Last year Rolex introduced us to their new GMT-Master II with a grey and black bezel in yellow gold and Rolesor, a dark and luxurious interpretation of their global traveller. Now, Rolex have released a new version of that watch in full Oystersteel, Ref. 126710 GRNR, trading out the golden luxury for a more traditional tool watch aesthetic. Let’s get into it.
The Rolex GMT-Master II is famous for its many nicknames based on the various colours of its day/night GMT bezel. Interestingly I haven’t seen much of a nickname floating around in discussion of the grey and black ceramic bezel edition. Although I think the new watch will result in an uptick in popularity for the model as in full steel it’s a lot more robust and leans more into a cool monochrome vibe.
Although it’s not actually monochrome due to the addition of a green GMT hand and green text on its dial. Green is the signature colour of Rolex, used across their logo, packaging and branding – that’s why the Kermit and Hulk Submariners exist. So, in many regards, the new GMT-Master II 126710 GRNR is the new standard model despite being the newest. The most subtle and least colourful.
Powering the 126710 GRNR is the manufacture calibre 3285, which like all Rolex movements carries superlative chronometer certification. It’s equipped with a chronergy escapement and has an accuracy of +/- 2 seconds per days with a 70-hour power reserve. It’s a reminder that Rolex are actually at the top of the horological game regardless of how overhyped they may be.
The GMT-Master II Grey and Black Oystersteel ref. 126710 is priced at £9,350 on Oyster bracelet and £9,550 on the Jubilee. Which is a solid chunk of change less than last year’s golden models. I think ultimately this is a reference that should exist in the range but it doesn’t feel like an insane or hype release. Definitely not in comparison to some of the other Rolex releases for Watches & Wonders such as the new Perpetual 1908 with Rolex’s first guilloche dial.
Price and Specs:
More details at Rolex.
