The year 2017 marked a significant shift in the world of Rolex collecting, a year whispered about in hushed tones among enthusiasts even today. While not a completely new model, the subtle yet impactful changes to the Rolex GMT-Master II "Coke" – specifically the introduction of a new ceramic bezel – sent ripples through the collector community. The anticipation, the rumors, and the eventual unveiling created a buzz that persists, especially when considering the model's subsequent evolution and enduring popularity. This article delves into the 2017 iteration of the GMT-Master II "Coke," examining its significance, comparing it to its predecessors and successors, and exploring its place within the broader context of Rolex's history and the current collector's market.
The initial whispers started online, in forums like the one referenced in the provided text: "New Coke ceramic bezel is cooking, patent revealed Rolex General Discussion . Jan 2017. Location: The States. Watch: Cosmograph Daytona." This seemingly innocuous post hinted at a major update to the iconic GMT-Master II "Coke," a watch already highly sought after for its distinctive red and black bezel and its dual-time functionality. The fact that the discussion was happening in January 2017 suggests that news of the impending change was circulating well before the official release. The mention of a Daytona suggests a possible correlation – perhaps the technology developed for one model was being applied to another. This anticipation, fueled by speculation and leaks, further heightened the excitement surrounding the release.
The "Coke" moniker, referring to the red and black bezel reminiscent of a Coca-Cola can, cemented the GMT-Master II's place in popular culture. The pre-2017 models, particularly the Rolex GMT-Master II 16710, were already highly collectible, commanding substantial prices in the secondary market. The 16710, often referred to as the "Fat Lady" due to its slightly thicker case compared to later models, represented a peak in the evolution of the aluminum bezel GMT-Master II. These models, now highly sought after, are frequently listed for sale online, with searches like "Rolex GMT 16710 Coke value," "Rolex GMT 16710 for sale," and "Rolex 16710 Coke for sale" yielding numerous results. The enduring appeal of these older models highlights the inherent desirability of the GMT-Master II design and its place in horological history.
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