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Watch Review

Rolex GMT Master Ice

Paul Altieri

With all of the interest surrounding the 2018 Baselword release of the ref. 126710 BLRO “Pepsi” GMT-Master II, and the 2019 release of the ref. 126710 BLNR “Batman” GMT-Master II, we figured it’s time to take another look at one of the first new watches to debut Rolex’s super case: the ref. 116769TBR Rolex GMT-Master Ice.

rolex gmt master ice
Rolex GMT Ice Wristwatch

One of the most expensive Rolex watches to date is certainly the extravagant and extremely rare Rolex GMT Master Ice men’s wristwatch. Retail pricing has set the value of this particular timepiece (when the watch was first released) set at $485,350 USD.

rolex gmt master ice
Rolex GMT Ice Wristwatch

The Rolex GMT-Master Ice wristwatch is certainly aesthetically stimulating and visually pleasing. It is made of some of the finest materials, including 18 ct white gold and nearly 30 Carats of brilliantly cut diamonds that cover almost every inch of the watch.

rolex gmt master ice
Rolex Ice Case, Bezel and Dial

Though covered in diamonds, Rolex did not skimp on the watch’s key technological features and the precision for which Rolex is known. The watch features an 18 ct white gold case that has a thickness of 13 mm. This Oyster case, which utilizes a screw-down Triplock winding crown and a screw-down case back, is able to withstand water pressure up to 100 meters (330 feet).

Inside the waterproof case is the caliber 3186 self-winding automatic movement with 31 jewels. Though this is a self-winding movement, the watch does have a 50-hour power reserve. The dial features a date aperture at the 3 o’clock mark, while a black GMT 24-hour hand allows the wearer to set and view a second-time zone.

rolex gmt master ice
Diamond Rolex Watch – GMT Ice

What makes this particular Rolex model so visually appealing are the many brilliant diamonds that adorn the case, bracelet, dial, and bezel. The 18 ct white gold case and lugs are set with 79 round diamonds. The bezel, also made of 18 ct white gold, is set with baguette-cut diamonds. The dial of the Rolex GMT Master Ice is one of its most striking features, with waves of small diamonds flowing on the dial face. Luminous hour markers paired with hands that are lined in black improve legibility.

Atop the case is a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The timepiece is finished with a matching 18 ct white gold Oyster bracelet, completely covered with diamonds. The center links are covered in baguette-cut diamonds, while the links on either side of the central link are covered in round brilliant diamonds. The bracelet is completed with an Oyster lock clasp, which ensures the watch remains securely on the wrist.

Though extravagant, this timepiece also meets Rolex’s strict standards, offering advanced features like a date aperture and a waterproof case. This timepiece is also known for its precision, despite the clear effort that went into its visual design. The Rolex GMT Master Ice is really a perfect fusion of both extravagant luxury and technological innovation.

Paul Altieri

Paul Altieri is a vintage and pre-owned Rolex specialist, entrepreneur, and the founder and CEO of BobsWatches.com. - the largest and most trusted name in luxury watches. He is widely considered a pioneer in the industry for bringing transparency and innovation to a once-considered stagnant industry. His experience spans over 35 years and he has been published in numerous publications including Forbes, The NY Times, WatchPro, and Fortune Magazine. Paul is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the watch industry and e-commerce, and regularly engages with other professionals in the industry. He is a member of the IWJG, the AWCI and a graduate of the GIA. Alongside running the premier retailer of pre-owned Rolex watches, Paul is a prominent Rolex watch collector himself amassing one of the largest private collections of rare timepieces. In an interview with the WSJ lifestyle/fashion editor Christina Binkley, Paul opened his vault to display his extensive collection of vintage Rolex Submariners and Daytonas. Paul Altieri is a trusted and recognized authority in the watch industry with a proven track record of expertise, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

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