A Closer Look at the Rolex GMT Root Beer

T he Rolex GMT Root Beer is a distinctive design within Rolex's iconic GMT Master series. More broadly it reflects the longstanding use of nicknames by Rolex fans to identify their favourite model. It's defined by its unique two-tone bezel which blends rich brown and gold hues hence the root beer moniker. The Rolex GMT Root Beer combines functionality with a differentiated design, ensuring a dedicated fan base for Rolex owners wanting something a little different.

Rolex Root Beer — Rolex GMT Master Root Beer Reference 16753

History and Legacy of the Rolex GMT Master

The Rolex GMT made its debut in 1955, originally designed for pilots and frequent travelers who required the ability to track multiple time zones. In typical Rolex fashion, the watch offered an elegant solution to a practical need.

The GMT-Master’s subtle stroke of genius was the addition of a fourth 24-hour hand, in addition to the standard hour, minute and second hands, to indicate the hour for a second time zone. This is bolstered by the GMT-Master’s distinctive two-tone rotating bezel with 24-hour numerals — pilots could set the fourth hand to Greenwich Mean Time (the standard which all time zones are measured against) and rotate the bezel accordingly. More than a mere design flourish, the bezel’s two colors correspond to daytime or nighttime hours; this simple addition made even easier work of quickly determining the time in a foreign locale.

The Rolex GMT Master II followed in 1982, building on the now popular GMT model with a larger case and technical improvements.

The Evolution of the Rolex GMT Root Beer

Rolex GMT Master Root Beer Reference 1675

The Rolex GMT Root Beer variant was first seen in 1970, with the introduction of the Rolex GMT 1675/3 reference. This was followed nearly 20 years later by the Rolex GMT Master II in root beer colouring, with the 16713 reference, produced in both stainless steel and yellow gold. This was in production until 2006 when it was discontinued.

However Rolex fans and followers were pleased to see the Rolex GMT Root Beer re-introduced in 2018 in the form of the black and brown Cerachrom variant (126711CHNR). This remains a popular modern GMT model for those looking to differentiate from the Rolex GMT Batman and Pepsi watches.

In 2018, Rolex updated the GMT Root Beer with the reference 126711CHNR. This new model retained the iconic brown and gold bezel but incorporated Rolex’s latest technological advancements, including a redesigned case and the Caliber 3285 movement for enhanced performance.

The profile of the Rolex GMT Root Beer has also been enhanced through its popularity among celebrities. Famous wearers include actors Clint Eastwood, Dwayne Johnson and Sylvester Stallone, as well as sporting stars including golfing legends Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler.

Key Features of the Rolex GMT Root Beer

Distinctive Bezel: The Rolex GMT Root Beer is renowned for its unique two tone bezel, featuring a combination of brown and gold that sets it apart from other GMT Master models. This color scheme gives the watch its characteristic Root Beer appearance.
Case and Bracelet: The watch is typically crafted from a combination of stainless steel and yellow gold, offering a luxurious yet sporty look. The case features a robust design with a screw-down crown and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.
Movement: The modern Rolex GMT Root Beer is equipped with the in-house Caliber 3285, an advanced automatic movement that provides precise timekeeping and a 70 hour power reserve. The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal case back in the latest models.
Dual Time Zone Functionality: As part of the Rolex GMT Master series, the Rolex Root GMT Beer allows the wearer to track two different time zones simultaneously. This is achieved through an additional GMT hand and a 24 hour graduated bezel.
Retro Design: The Rolex GMT Root Beer watch’s brown and gold color scheme gives it a vintage feel. Its contemporary edge is maintained through modern updates in recent models, such as the reference 126711CHNR.

The Rolex GMT Root Beer remains a unique and coveted watch in the prestigious Rolex GMT Master collection. Its distinctive brown and gold bezel, combined with Rolex’s renowned precision and craftsmanship, makes it a standout choice for collectors and enthusiasts.

Source Your Next Rolex GMT Root Beer

The Rolex GMT Root Beer, whether in vintage form or more recent Professional editions, remains highly sought after globally. Sotheby's is on hand to support as a trusted partner, whether providing valuations for your Rolex GMT Root Beer or guiding on an example featured in one of our upcoming sales.