The Rolex GMT-Master reference 16700, affectionately known as the "Coke" due to its red and black bezel insert, occupies a unique position in the pantheon of Rolex sports watches. Its blend of robust functionality, enduring design, and a touch of faded vintage charm makes it a highly sought-after piece amongst collectors and enthusiasts alike. This article will delve into the specifics of the Rolex 16700 Coke, exploring its history, features, current market value, and comparing it to its successor, the Rolex GMT-Master II reference 16710 Coke.
The 1990 Rolex GMT-Master 16700 Coke: A Detailed Look
The listing mentioned – a 1990 Rolex GMT-Master 16700 Coke with a faded bezel, offered at $14,275 – provides a compelling entry point for understanding the market for this particular watch. The reference number 16700 itself denotes a crucial period in GMT-Master history. Preceding the introduction of the significantly updated GMT-Master II (ref. 16710), the 16700 represents the final iteration of the original GMT-Master design, retaining the iconic single-crown design and the instantly recognizable "Pepsi" and "Coke" bezel variants.
The "Coke" bezel, with its contrasting red and black aluminum insert, is arguably the most popular color combination for this reference. The listing specifying a "faded bezel" is important. While a pristine, unfaded bezel commands a premium, a naturally faded bezel is often viewed as a desirable characteristic, adding to the watch's vintage appeal and telling a story of its past wear. This "patina," as it's often called, represents the passage of time and the watch's authentic history. It’s a testament to the watch's genuine age and use, unlike artificially aged bezels.
The listing also highlights that the watch is a "full set," meaning it comes with all original boxes and papers. This significantly increases its value, as complete sets are much rarer and more desirable. The condition is described as "good," which suggests it’s in wearable condition with some signs of wear commensurate with its age. This is expected for a watch almost 35 years old. Any significant damage or repairs would, of course, impact the price.
Comparing the 16700 Coke with the 16710 Coke: A Generational Shift
The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 16710 Coke, often discussed alongside the 16700, represents a significant evolution in the GMT-Master line. While both share the iconic "Coke" bezel, the 16710 introduced several key upgrades:
* Quickset Date: The 16710 incorporated a quickset date function, allowing for easy date adjustment without having to cycle through the entire month. The 16700 lacks this feature.
* Independent Hour Hand: The 16710's hour hand can be adjusted independently, without affecting the minutes or seconds hand, making it more precise for setting time zones. The 16700 requires adjustment of the entire hour hand, potentially affecting accuracy.
* Sapphire Crystal: The 16710 generally features a more scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, compared to the acrylic crystal found on the 16700.
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