Rolex GMT-Master II 16710 ‘Pepsi’

In 2004, the GMT-Master II ref. 16710 was still an ever-present in the Rolex family, building on its heritage with the iconic red-and-blue aluminium bezel that had become a byword for jet-set accuracy. Although the watch retained the independent local-hour hand and corrosion-proof 904L steel case, it did so with solid end links and had only recently abandoned lug holes—a harbinger of design progression. This version was one of the final references to use aluminium inserts before Rolex made the switch to ceramic, so it remains a modern classic for collectors.

Origins of the GMT-Master II Evolution

GMT-Master history started back in 1954 when Pan Am challenged Rolex to create a watch for pilots that could monitor both their hometown time as well as destination time. The problem was solved by the original 6542, but the bezel needed to be turned for each time zone transition. By the time 1983 came around, travel patterns had become more complicated, which led to the launch of the GMT-Master II 16760 “Fat Lady” with calibre 3085, where the local-hour hand was able to jump on its own—making on-the-fly time adjustments a reality.

It finished refining the formula with the 16710, launched in 1989, whose calibre 3185 enabled a slimmer case and tapered bracelet design. Subtle improvements came along throughout its production: tritium gave way to Luminova in 1998, then Super-Luminova came along in 2000; end links became solid by 2003; and lug holes were eliminated by 2004. A 2004 model would have solid end links, no lug holes, a laser-etched coronet on the crystal, and Super-Luminova glow—quite an up-to-date reinterpretation of a tool watch icon.

The 2004 Reference within Context

Watches of 2004 feature the “Swiss Made” face, with Super-Luminova glow providing crisp legibility long into the evening hours. The aluminium bezel insert remained bright, with rich anodised hues much truer than those of early ceramics. Faint patina on bezels started to be seen, imparting each watch with a touch of character without sacrificing readability.

904L stainless steel cases provided industry-leading corrosion resistance with a highly polished look and resistance against chemicals, including seawater and airplane fuel. Water resistance at 100 metres ensured that it could transition from the boardroom to the beach without a problem.

Case and Bezel Structure

With a diameter of 40 mm and a thickness of slightly over 12 mm, the 16710 remained slim. The bidirectionally rotating 120-satisfying-click bezel enabled the wearer to monitor a third time zone. Aluminium minimized glare for cockpits along with overall watch weight. The laser-etched coronet of the Rolex was paired with the sapphire crystal, a security feature that had debuted several years previously.

While lug holes were gone, the 2004 case still had a balanced feel. The screw-down case back and Triplock crown provided everyday ruggedness and factory maintainability.

Calibre 3185: The Workhorse

The watch continued with calibre 3185, a 31-jewel automatic movement that ran at 28,800 vph with a 50-hour reserve. The full balance bridge, free-sprung balance, Microstella regulation, and Breguet overcoil provided strong performance. The star feature was still the quick-set local hour hand: it jumped a full hour without stopping the seconds—perfect for travelers who had to adjust en route.

The GMT hand stayed aligned with the minutes for accurate reference time. Transatlantic flights or navigating across-continent schedules were no problem with this mechanism keeping the watch sharp as a tack.

Dial, Hands and Lume

The black, glossy dial with clean white printing appeared functional and elegant. White gold surrounds for the hour markers ensured no tarnishing, with polished steel Mercedes seconds, hours, and minutes hands for contrast. The red-tipped GMT hand with a glowing tip was highly visible. Super-Luminova glowed with a bright, welcome green for evening landings and overnight flights.

The three-o’clock date window was positioned underneath a Cyclops magnifier, flawlessly incorporated into the design on the dial.

Bracelet and Wearing Comfort

The 2004 rendition appeared on the Oyster bracelet ref. 78790A, with solid end links for added durability and a slimmer fit against the case. The clasp had a stamped flip-lock with secondary safety catch. While lighter than subsequent solid-link versions, the bracelet was better balanced for everyday wear. The taper from 20 mm at the lug to 16 mm at the clasp provided a comfortable fit for a range of wrist sizes.

Pin-through links made for easy sizing at home using a screwdriver, and most wearers enjoyed the smooth articulation of this generation’s bracelet compared to later, bulkier designs.

Position within the Lineup

By 2004, the 16710 had become a modern classic firmly rooted in its heritage. It retained the retro charm of aluminum bezels and thinner lugs but incorporated technical enhancements such as Super-Luminova, solid end links and laser engraving on the crown. Collectors find that the watch represents the last chapter of the pre-ceramic GMT-Master era—before heavier cases and glossier materials dominated the scene.

Daily Flexibility

The watch remained the traveler’s closest companion. Jumping the hour hand and rotating the bezel allowed it to cover up to three time zones on the fly. Setting your watch to Tokyo during a flight or tracking UTC for a Zoom call with people around the world, the 16710 did it without issues.

Seasoned air travelers perfected patterns: accommodating layovers, keeping track of flight times, or monitoring team schedules across the globe. It did not require flight mode in its mechanical motion and had a watertight seal, making it a reliable sidekick to coastal climates. Scratches and wear on the bezel only added character with time, serving as a record of the routes traveled.

Final Thoughts

The 2004 Rolex GMT-Master II 16710 ‘Pepsi’ combines retro aesthetics with functional wearability. It is a farewell to the traditional GMT prior to the arrival of the ceramic bezels, maxi cases and milled clasps being the centre of attention. With proportions that transcend time, solid mechanics and international function, it is one of the most loved GMTs to have ever been produced.

Case in excellent condition, lugs sharp, chamfers visible.

Dial and hands are flawless.