Detailed comparison GMTII & GMTIIC

[ZROLEX]

Hi everyone!
I know I know a lot talks and threads about differences between 16710 & 116710 but I wanted to put my own observations and fine details about differences mostly in looks and feel of the watch. In no way I'm trying to put GMTIIC above older GMTII! Please, the holders of 16710 do not think that way! I love both watches and it is the best GMT's in the world, I just want to put my observations on how Rolex made the best GMT even better!
First of all these are the updates I knew even before I bought 116710:
Updated 3186 movement and parachrom-blu spring, new thicker case with triplock crown, Ceramic bezel, ROLEXROLEX rehaut, Maxi Dial, New bracelet with polished full center links, New clasp with easy link. So these are the updates as we all know...
NOW THE FINE DETAILS I REALLY LOVE ABOUT GMTIIC :thumbsup::

THE BRACELET:
The new bracelet is AWESOME!!! It is great not because it's new but because of the updates it has. I like to wear my watch tight and it was always hard for me to adjust the clasp evenly on the other side. On my previous GMT II and DJ I couldn't make the clasp perfectly center. Now on my GMTIIC I can finally adjust the clasp perfectly in the center as it allows me to have four links on the side of 6o'clock!
The feel of the bracelet is great. Although there is no noticeable difference in the feel when the watch is on the wrist except the weight, but huge difference when you hold both of the watches side by side, the older one rattles MUCH more and feels cheaper due to hollow center links.
Even though the center links are polished and scratches much easier than brushed links I'd say I really like the look. Especially at night the difference between brushed and polished links is so cool! It gives different dimension to the look of the bracelet. Also I don’t think there is a possibility to stretch as easy as hollow links, so it makes it much sturdier bracelet in functionality as well.
THE CLASP:
The clasp itself is a piece of art in mho. It is heavy and well constructed. The old one is not near to it though the functionality part of it is identical. I always thought that clasp on Rolexes are some how cheap due to it’s construction and thin metal. I always liked my Seamaster bracelet and clasp much more due to those facts. But not anymore! The crown stamp on the new clasp is great and looks much sharper to the old one, because it looks like it is somehow attached to the bracelet. Also interestingly the clasp is not scratching the bracelet. On older ones clasp was rubbing to the bracelet leaving marks but here I can not see any, it looks like inside of the clasp (the side where easy link is) made that way so it doesn’t contact with all of the bracelet, but just small part of it rubs against each other so it gives much less scratches between and all of it happens inside of the clasp so you don’t see any scratches on the bracelet. Also the safety lock on it works great and when it’s closed you practically won’t see the seams between the clasp and it all looks as one part and when you open it won’t wobble and gives the right feel. The inside of clasp also looks different. Instead of two thin brushed metals now it has a sturdy thick metals which goes into each other when you close the clasp that way it aligns perfectly and is very comfortable.

THE CASE:
Well, the case is updated and a bit thicker, somehow similar to SD but very comfortable due to case back is flatter. I have never complained about older cases but the new one is definitely more comfortable. And yes, having a triplock crown is a plus, not only it looks better but it’s functions although both watches are the same 100m water proof.
THE BEZEL:
One word- OUTSTANDING. I love the fact that the clicks are one hour changes, so it’s really easy to change the time on it even not looking at the bezel. If you know how many hours you need to chage just simply click it that much time and that’s it. Very easy to use in mho. Also I like the fact that the bezel is thicker and almost on the same level with the crystal, which gives more protection to the crystal as there are no edges coming out. And it clicks really sweet, you know what I mean!!! Also Ceramic makes it bit more blingy but I can live with that knowing it is virtually indestructible. Lot of people don’t like the big numbers on it but I really like it and I don’t find it is too busy, of course everyone can have their own opinion and taste. After using it for a while the previous bezel looks somehow empty to me.
THE DIAL:
Maxi dial is a plus. Looks bold and glows longer. Once you like the maxi dial there is no turn back. It somehow completes the watch and the green 24hr hand is very nice touch, although I can’t say which one I like more red or green. I guess they are both great colors on those dials!
THE CRYSTAL:
Always liked the Cyclops. I think it looks great and distinguishes the Rolex, although I like SD without it as well. Now the new GMT IIC has a antireflection coating on the Cyclops so it is much easier to read the date! Not a huge thing but really nice touch!!!
CONCLUSION:
In my humble opinion the new GMT IIC is a great watch with all the updates and small details and it is the watch that I would never flip. As I mentioned the previous is the best GMT in the world, so Rolex made the best even better! The GMT IIC!
I hope you enjoyed my observations about the watch and if you have anything to add to it please do so! Thank you very much for reading my long post!
:cheers::cheers::cheers:

BOTH WRIST SHOTS

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/zulfjazz/IMG_2683.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/zulfjazz/015.jpg

:bye::bye::bye::bye::bye:

[Bobareno]

Nice info, thanks. Nice pictures also.

[Texsubmariner]

Nice write-up! I agree with your sentiments, although it did take a while for me to warm up to the GMTc's features, including the maxi dial and supercase. Now, I love the GMTc and its looks.

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Great review! This oughta be in the reviews section!

Thanks for sharing!

[Scarface]

Thank you, nice review :cheers:

[CrownNewbie]

Thanks for the info...about to jump in and was considering the older GMT simply for the cost savings but my heart is with the ceramic bezel. Does anyone have an opinion of going through a grey market dealer versus an AD? At this point, it looks like I'd only be saving about $800. What would I miss by not buying from an AD?

[mike]

What a great review! Well done!!:cheers:

A few pics if I may for comparison,

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/Double1.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/Double4.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/double3.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/clasp3-2.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/clasp4.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/clasp1.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/gmtlume.jpg

[veefour]

IMO GMT IIc would be perfect with a red 24h hand, and a brushed centre link. Anyone?:thinking:

[Texsubmariner]

Does anyone have an opinion of going through a grey market dealer versus an AD? At this point, it looks like I'd only be saving about $800. What would I miss by not buying from an AD?

There have been threads about this, but I personally prefer buying from AD, but that's just my opinion. I like to get the peace of mind, and the Rolex USA warranty. If you do buy from gray dealers, make sure you buy from reputable dealers, who may also offer the same warranty work.

[GMTII Owner]

Great review. I loved it so much I bought one. I can't tell you how excited I get looking at that watch on my wrist. This watch will be one my son inherits from me one day as I plan on keeping it.

[MAC4130]

I agree with you 110%!:joy:
Here is my wristshot! and a studio photo not mine but that I love about this watch!!!

[ZROLEX]

Thanks guys!!!
I hope you enjoyed the detailed review!!!!!!
:cheers::cheers::cheers:

[briantheartist]

I'd like to see more pics!!

Plz

[jake]

Superb Review!!!!!!! Thank you for sharing. :thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

Jake

Thanks guys!!!
I hope you enjoyed the detailed review!!!!!!
:cheers::cheers::cheers:

[jake]

Hi Mike!!!

Superb comparison photos!!! I enjoyed them very much.

Jake

What a great review! Well done!!:cheers:

A few pics if I may for comparison,

[East Bay Rider]

Nice comparison and great photos everyone.

[ZROLEX]

I'd like to see more pics!!

Plz

Here you go!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/zulfjazz/IMG_2739.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/zulfjazz/IMG_2794.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/zulfjazz/009.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/zulfjazz/011.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/zulfjazz/012.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/zulfjazz/013.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/zulfjazz/014.jpg

And this is not my but a very nice photo

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii238/zulfjazz/ss-catalog2a.jpg

[shedlock2000]

Hey friend.

Very helpfull i am going through the same traumatic dialema in regard to flipping my old GMT II for the new GMT IIc i have found it very interesting, and i will wait and thing a while, my biggest issue is with the bracelet of the GMT II, does anyone know if the new braclet from the GMT IIc will fit the classic?

thanks

[SabaDen]

If only they come up with the coke or pepsi bezel for the GMTIIc ... that'll be a hit.

[fly-dad]

IMO GMT IIc would be perfect with a red 24h hand, and a brushed centre link. Anyone?:thinking:

I'm with you regarding the Red 24 hr hand but the polished center links have really grown on me and I now love the look of the watch.

The problem with the green hand is that it is difficult to see against the black background. :cheers::cheers:

[harvey]

great review...great pics...

i had the choice this week for the gmt II (coke bezel) at list price of £2800 ish or the gmt IIc at £3600, also at list. i plumped for the former as the the gmt II is simply sublime.

[Beef]

Wonderful review. A new member was just debating with himself in another thread over whether to flip a GMT II for GMT IIc. This should be very helpful.

[Terry Newton]

Great review. I love the watch. It is my first Rolex after wearing a Tag for many years. I love everything about the watch and have no words of criticism whatsoever. I have the TT version and am absolutely thrilled to be able to own such a fine watch. It had a price increase and, I hear another price increase is happening in June, so I got it before the 1st increase otherwise that would have probably priced me out of the watch. Here is my showoff picture:

http://i260.photobucket.com/albums/ii4/TerranceNewton/L1020036.jpg

This was an excellent review. I agree with whoever said this should be in the review section. I agree with all of your points. I don't think the center links should be brushed. I like the shininess on the SS and TT version. I also think the clasp is awesome. The watch fits much better and is more comfortable than my Submariner.

Thanks for the great pictures and great review.

Terry Newton

[Perdu]

Nice review. The new GMT is undoubtably technically better but I think the old GMT II looks sharper on your wrist.

[ZROLEX]

Thanks guys! I'm glad you like the review.
Do you know how I can move it to the Review section? Or maybe I can ask moderator to do it?:thumbsup:

[OYSTERMANN]

What a fine review you've posted. Really enjoyed reading it - especially as I bought a new GMT IIc in March.

Very well put together and informative:thumbsup:.

Thanks for the effort you made sharing your enthusiasm for 2 very fine watches - both the old and new GMTs:thumbsup:.

[SSD]

I agree with Bo, this is great (the entire thread, not merely the excellent review post)! Should be in the reviews column so it can be located and enjoyed that much quicker. Outstanding photos, too!

:cheers:

[BigHat]

Great review. I love the watch. It is my first Rolex after wearing a Tag for many years. I love everything about the watch and have no words of criticism whatsoever. I have the TT version and am absolutely thrilled to be able to own such a fine watch. It had a price increase and, I hear another price increase is happening in June, so I got it before the 1st increase otherwise that would have probably priced me out of the watch. Here is my showoff picture:

This was an excellent review. I agree with whoever said this should be in the review section. I agree with all of your points. I don't think the center links should be brushed. I like the shininess on the SS and TT version. I also think the clasp is awesome. The watch fits much better and is more comfortable than my Submariner.

Thanks for the great pictures and great review.

Terry Newton\\

Great pic of the TT :cheers:

[ZROLEX]

Guys, how I can transfer this post to REVIEWS section?

[Baptistman]

great review...great pics...

i had the choice this week for the gmt II (coke bezel) at list price of £2800 ish or the gmt IIc at £3600, also at list. i plumped for the former as the the gmt II is simply sublime.

THe new GMT in its own right is a very nice watch, but imo not at the expense of the classic GMT 11. I understand why Rolex have done it, but I suppose I'm old school and love the classic looks.

The classic GMT is long lived, time tested, bullet proof movment, and a real tool watch, the New GMT is a lovely piece, but too jewellry like to be a real tool watch.

You damage that bezel (as someone on TZ has done) expect a bill for £1000.

Damage the classic GMT bezel, expect a bill for £100.

I suppose the classic designs caught my eye many years ago and still do.

[JJ Irani]

Nice thread......and some superb pics!! :thumbsup:

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Guys, how I can transfer this post to REVIEWS section?

By sending a PM to a moderator and making the request.

[Trurolexer]

Good review!!!

[ZROLEX]

Thanks for transferring!!! Appreciate it! :cheers::cheers::cheers:
I hope this info will be useful!!!! :thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

[Edensknight]

Nice comparison and great photos everyone.

I agree! :thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::cheers: It is difficult not to see the beauty in both models. Both Rollies are absolutely striking! However, I am now partial to the many design improvements now presently constructed into the new, and, heftier GMT II. :thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::cheers:

[Portzed]

What lovely review, I really had not had one of these on the radar as I have not been a cyclops fan but this maxi dial seems to do it for me now.....mmmnn ££££££:thinking:

[wansbeck]

Just bought the SS GMTIIC. Really impressed with the build quality and (thanks to this forum) the function of the easylink. I had originally chosen a Tag Carrera Twin Time a year back but having gone through the inconvenience of 2 factory repairs due to out-of-sync 24hr hand, it just had to be the Rolex and bye bye Tag. Little annoyed to have scratched the bright centre links on the seatbelt during recent flight but I hear the appearance will look better once there are a few scuffs from normal wear and tear. Happy camper so far!

[stuttgart]

thanks for the detail review... GMTIIC is really a fine watch...:cheers:

[sea-dweller]

Nice review and photos !

[golfball123]

GMT IIc all the way.....:thumbsup::thumbsup:

[Levelpar1]

Great write up. I have been enjoying new new GMT IIc.

[Ztoke]

Thanks Zrolex for the great review, and to others for beautiful pics and comments. Much appreciated.

[RossInIllinois]

It would appear now that the Sub and GMT are now in the same case with a different bezel ring and movement No?

[SS Oyster]

IMO GMT IIc would be perfect with a red 24h hand, and a brushed centre link. Anyone?:thinking:

I actually love the green for two reasons. Green is a great color and it somewhat blends into the black making it visible if looking for it, but if not, it blends to keep the dial more clean looking.

Brushed center links would be very nice. Some have done it themselves. I may be tempted to have my watchmaker do it for me --- professionally.

[ajfjunior]

excellent review and awesome pictures

[ajfjunior]

Question...
on the left side of the gmt 2c i see what looks like a "computer bar code"?? what is that? and is it on all the gmt 2c???

[superdry]

A fantastic review...

Newbie question have Rolex released a platty version of this watch?

[JediRolex]

That new bracelet looks like a machine! I would love to take it for a ride! But I don't like the polished center links, to much flash.

[marshallr47]

Great review. Thanks.

[Alex49]

Question...
on the left side of the gmt 2c i see what looks like a "computer bar code"?? what is that? and is it on all the gmt 2c???

Hi

I think it is the plastic protection around it. On some photographs you see the protection better.

[alohanakoni]

great one!

[mkultra]

I actually love the green for two reasons. Green is a great color and it somewhat blends into the black making it visible if looking for it, but if not, it blends to keep the dial more clean looking.


I just got a brand new GMT IIc from an AD last week and I have been thinking this exact same thing you said!

[simoesm]

Very good review. Thanks.
I have handled the GMT II and the GMT IIc. I prefer the first one on my wrist.
That is just my opinion. I like the new bracelet, though.

[kingblackbolt]

Excellent review and provides some great food for thought! Having Mike provide his usual stunning comparison photos really is the icing on the cake as well!

What value for your dollar in the SS GMT IIc!

[shedlock2000]

Thanks for the review,..... Sadly it makes me miss my old GMT II,

A flip to the GMT IIc i should never made.

[yannis7777]

I think i will be getting the GMT II-c soon, but i would never drop my GMT II. You are right Steve. Just get it back when you get the bucks man! I mean JJ dropped his bluesy twice but now he got it back for good i think. Just get it back yourself too.

[Niathan]

good review

[bardm]

IMO GMT IIc would be perfect with a red 24h hand, and a brushed centre link. Anyone?:thinking:

IMO the GMT IIc would be even better if it stayed just as it is. But thats me :cheers:

[Duncan1]

Great comparison pictures....no longer have my pepsi but do have a new GMT II C...both handsome but different....what camera are you using....thanks.

[hflee55]

Great review. Makes me wanna get a GMT-IIC

[dex]

great review thanks

[Nods]

Great review. I toss up the idea of getting a second hand 16710 to save some bucks but luckily I decided what the hell and splurged for a new 116710. The differences are subtle but after wearing the watch for a while I think they are worth the extra dollars. It is interesting that most people including me take a few weeks to really warm to this watch, they might bury me in this one.

[Fai17]

Thanks for the great review.

I rally do love all GMT now and hope to add 1 to my collection.

[JJ Irani]

If I could have both, then I would.....

The GMT-IIC exactly as it is....

The GMT-II with Pepsi bezel, but with the new Super Jubilee bracelet.

What an awesome combo!!

JJ :thumbsup:

[Latrodectus]

If I could have both, then I would.....

The GMT-IIC exactly as it is....

The GMT-II with Pepsi bezel, but with the new Super Jubilee bracelet.

What an awesome combo!!

JJ :thumbsup:

:joy:I will have both very soon:agree:

[Lion]

Great review on a really cool watch. I have a PEPSI and will one day own the newer GMT-IIC!!!

[benjowong]

a pass from me for Gmt-IIc.

[jadento]

Hey friend.

Very helpfull i am going through the same traumatic dialema in regard to flipping my old GMT II for the new GMT IIc i have found it very interesting, and i will wait and thing a while, my biggest issue is with the bracelet of the GMT II, does anyone know if the new braclet from the GMT IIc will fit the classic?

thanks


As previously asked...Does anyone know if the new GMT IIc bracelet will fit the GMT II? I asked at my local AD and they didnt really have any interest in finding out. I also asked at another jeweler the other day and he did not have the answer. But he did say that Rolex sells part for a watch based on the serial number. So he didnt think they would just send him the bracelet without a proper serial number for a IIc. He did say he would look into it and let me know. My GMT II is with him getting a new crystal right now, so hopefully when I go to pick it up he will have some more info on the bracelet. Thoughts?

[jadento]

Ough yeah...also anyone have an idea what the cost of the IIc bracelet would be?

[Lyndon Bryte]

fantastic photos and review.

[handdoc]

nice info

[Lubrifar]

For those who own both models, can you share with us the comfort of wearability? I know that the caseback on GMT-II is more "bubbled" whereas the GMT-IIc is more flat. I find that my GMT-II classic tends to lean towards more to the wrist bone rather than center of wrist.

And would owners of both models be kind enough to see if the ceramic bracelet will fit the class model?

Thanks!

[gioarmani7428]

Mike, the mirrored side-by-side lume shot is fantastic. I might steal that for a little Mac wallpaper... ;)

[hsfrank]

Great review. I am in love. Desparately seeking a GMT II-c at a price I can afford. I've come close but so far no Banana

[Ted Su(TW)]

Thanks for the great report.

I have nothing to add but some shots of my GMT IIC

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w315/UTTrading/My%20Watches/Rolex%20116710LN/116710LN-02.jpg

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w315/UTTrading/My%20Watches/Rolex%20116710LN/116710LN-06.jpg

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w315/UTTrading/My%20Watches/Rolex%20116710LN/116710LN-09.jpg

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w315/UTTrading/My%20Watches/Rolex%20116710LN/116710LN-12.jpg


Ted Su(TW)

[adam69sun]

New GMT II EasyLink, I love it.

[adam69sun]

Ted Su(TW) Sir,
Nice shots.

[G M]

Great Pics and review guys, Thanks!

[children]

Hi, I was wondering if the old GMTII was available with an all black bezel?
The GMTIIC; while its very nice, its too expensive for me, but I'm not a fan of the pepsi or the coke..

[directioneng]

The old GMT II was available in three bezel colours.
Black, Black/Red (coke) and Blue/Red (pepsi).

[rscott4079]

I love the fact that the clicks are one hour changes, so it’s really easy to change the time on it even not looking at the bezel. If you know how many hours you need to chage just simply click it that much time and that’s it.

That's kind of downer for me. I like to be able to use the bezel arrow has a minute timer.

[JediRolex]

I wish I would have never found this review! Now I want the IIc :( There goes another 2 Gs

[Alex49]

Just another excelent feature that I would like to discuss with you. As we read the weels are somehow differently engineered in der new movement. And this has an absolutly excellent effect: When you want to adjust the time, with the new movement this a very easy done, as the arms do not move away after you set them to a definite position. With the old 16710 this was very diffcult as when you wanted to set the time at e.g. 16:26 you had to turn backwards to allmost 16:25 as the arm moved foreward again. And if you wanted to make sure that the minutes arm is exactly in the minutes indication at the moment that the seconds arm is at 60 then it got quite difficult.
This is fully solved now. Great.

[Hendri Leong]

thanks for the info... i aim for it.. TT or full gold... :D

[ldmarcht]

One plus for the 16710 is its smaller size and thinner, more comfortable fit. I find the pepsi bezel to be unique and recognizable in a way that many who travel for a living readily recognize. Sitting on a rental car bus the other day, a retired pilot saw my GMT II an remarked that he had one from the late 60's. There's something to be said for how the older watch differentiates from the modern ones. And, it keeps great time.

thanks

LM

[nauticajoe]

Great review! Here's my boys:

[Autobot]

I wonder if they will ever come out with any different colored bezels for the IIc? I realize it would be more expensive as you would have to replace the whole bezel and not just an insert, but still, thoughts?

[hng]

I read in an article that for now Rolex has not found the right technology for coloured ceramics bezel but who knows somewhere in the future we'll see GMT II C with Pepsi or Coke bezel :-)