Rolex 16710 GMT-Master II ‘Coke’ Bezel: A Cult Classic

Before Cerachrom inserts and maxi cases reshaped Rolex’s tool-watch identity, the GMT-Master II 16710 stood as a paragon of practical elegance. Produced from 1989 to 2007, the 16710 offered three bezel variants: all-black (16710N), blue and red “Pepsi” (16710B), and black and red “Coke” (16710A). While the “Pepsi” returned to the Rolex lineup in 2018, the “Coke” remains conspicuously absent, making the original model all the more coveted by collectors.

The 16710 “Coke” hails from the five-digit Rolex era – a transitional period that bridged vintage charm and modern reliability. Cases were slimmer, surfaces matte, and proportions arguably more elegant than the bolder silhouettes seen today. The “Coke” bezel, made of anodized aluminium and featuring 120 bidirectional clicks, adds a bold yet refined contrast to the watch’s black dial and stainless steel case. Its red and black colour scheme is unique to this reference, making it the only GMT-Master II to feature this combination – a detail that continues to drive its cult appeal.

By the early 2000s the 16710 had evolved in subtle but meaningful ways. Rolex transitioned its lume from Tritium to Luminova, and eventually to SuperLuminvoa, enhancing legibility and longevity. The bracelet gained solid end links, improving both durability and perceived heft. Most notably, the case lost its lug holes – a design shift that signalled Rolex’s move toward a more seamless, integrated aesthetic. The laser-etched crown, introduced in 2003, added another layer of authenticity and protection against counterfeiting, further aligning the model with Rolex’s modern standards.

Our Rolex 16710 GMT-Master II ‘Coke’, featured in the HEX Single Watch Case.

The GMT-Master II ‘Coke’ featured in the photographs above is a 2004 F-serial model, at the heart of which beats the Rolex Calibre 3185 – a movement that has sparked plenty of discussion among enthusiasts. Introduced in 1989, the 3185 is a certified chronometer with 31 jewels, a 28,800vph beat rate, and a 50-hour power reserve. Its standout feature is the independently adjustable GMT hand, designed to track a second time zone – a nod to the model’s aviation roots and original purpose as a pilot’s watch.

Now for the technical part: the 3185 is, to put it simply, a robust piece of engineering. It features a Nivarox hairspring (Rolex’s only outsourced component), paired with a Breguet overcoil for improved isochronism and timekeeping. A Glucydur balance wheel resists magnetism and temperature shifts, while regulation is handled via Rolex’s Microstellar system. Shock protection comes courtesy of the KIF Elastor setup, a reliable if now slightly dated choice compared to Rolex’s latest Paraflex system.

Still, the 3185 isn’t without quirks. When adjusting the time, the GMT hand can shift slightly – a minor imperfection later resolved in the Calibre 3186. But for many collectors, that idiosyncrasy only adds to the charm. The 3185 powered not just the 16710, but also the Explorer II 16570, cementing its place in Rolex’s tool-watch history.

What makes the “Coke” GMT-Master II truly special is its absence from modern Rolex catalogues. While the “Pepsi” bezel made a triumphant return in 2018 – reimagined with a Cerachrom insert and Jubilee bracelet – the “Coke” remains elusive. This enduring exclusivity has kept the 16710 models in high demand. Collectors covet not just the bold red and black bezel, but also the watch’s embodiment of a purist Rolex era – defined by tool-watch functionality, elegant proportions, and purposeful design.

The Rolex GMT-Master II “Coke” remains one of the brand’s most distinctive and desirable references. Its iconic bezel, enduring movement, and historical significance have cemented its place in Rolex lore. Revered for its balance of form and function, the 16710 continued to attract collectors and enthusiasts alike. It’s a well-loved, highly sought-after companion that, even after all these years, is still as functional as it is fashionable.

It was a privilege to feature this exceptional GMT-Master II ‘Coke’ timepiece in our showroom — a model that perfectly embodies the SwissTimepieces legacy.

Whether you’re searching for a Rolex 16710 GMT-Master II Coke or looking to sell one with confidence, our specialists are here to guide you every step of the way.