Rolex GMT-Master II (Ref. 116710BLNR) Detailed Review
This review evaluates the Rolex GMT-Master II (Ref. 116710BLNR) across 10 criteria, focusing on this specific model. Other GMT-Master variations may perform differently. All evaluations are based on my wrist size, personal preferences, and extensive experience with Rolex timepieces, including my ownership of a 116710LN from 2009 to 2014. Let’s dive into the detailed assessment.
Overall Design | 10/10
Nicknamed the “Green Lantern” for its distinctive black and blue ceramic bezel, the GMT-Master II embodies a perfect balance of modern flair and timeless elegance. Rolex’s genius lies in retaining the iconic aesthetics of its timepieces while incorporating technological advancements like ceramic bezels and updated bracelets.
Unlike many brands that overhaul designs entirely, Rolex opts for subtle refinements, preserving the longevity of its classic looks. The Green Lantern exemplifies this beautifully—a watch that will remain coveted for decades.
Case | 9/10
The beefier 40mm Oyster case is robust and feels substantial without being bulky. Polished sides and brushed surfaces strike a tasteful balance between elegance and sportiness. The addition of a ceramic bezel enhances both durability and appearance.
The two-tone black and blue bezel is visually stunning. It’s bold, with numerals that lend a confident, sporty vibe compared to the more reserved Submariner bezel. While some purists may dislike the large numerals, I find them striking and dynamic. Fortunately, the bezel alignment on my model was flawless—a pleasant surprise given past experiences with misaligned bezels on other models.
One minor complaint: the plain, unadorned case back. While Rolex traditionally avoids engravings on their case backs, a subtle design would elevate its visual appeal.
Dial | 9/10
The Green Lantern dial maintains Rolex’s signature simplicity and readability. Unlike the 116710LN, this version replaces the green “GMT-Master II” lettering with white, while the GMT hand now features a blue accent that matches the bezel. This thoughtful color coordination is both visually appealing and functional.
I appreciate the cleaner layout compared to the Submariner’s dial, with only three lines of text instead of four. The maxi hour indices are bold and legible, making time-reading effortless at a glance.
Bracelet | 10/10
Rolex consistently sets the standard for bracelets and buckles, and the Green Lantern is no exception. The curved links provide exceptional comfort, while the polished center links add a refined touch, perfectly complementing the ceramic bezel and polished case sides.
Resizing the bracelet is user-friendly, requiring just a screwdriver for simple adjustments—a feature that many other brands should adopt. The attention to detail in bracelet design makes the Green Lantern exceptionally wearable.
Movement | 8/10
The Green Lantern houses the in-house caliber 3186, featuring 31 jewels, a 48-hour power reserve, and COSC certification. This movement offers excellent timekeeping reliability and robustness. However, Rolex’s decision to keep the movement hidden behind a plain case back limits the visual satisfaction that other luxury brands provide.
Legibility | 5/5
The maxi dial’s large hour indices and Chromalight lume provide superb legibility both day and night. Each hand is uniquely shaped, making it easy to distinguish them, even in low-light conditions. The signature date magnification also proves to be practical and efficient.
Operation | 5/5
The bezel, crown, and bracelet functioned flawlessly during my testing. The bezel rotates smoothly with satisfying clicks, while the crown’s triple-lock system feels secure and robust.
Features | 8/10
The Green Lantern offers a range of practical features, including a scratch-resistant two-color ceramic bezel, GMT hand for dual time zones, date display with magnification, and water resistance up to 100 meters. One gripe is the lack of a quick-set date function—having to rotate the hour hand 24 times to advance the date is tedious.
Comfort | 10/10
Rolex excels in comfort, and the Green Lantern is no different. The bracelet’s micro-adjustment options ensure a perfect fit, eliminating the frustration of a bracelet that is either too tight or too loose. On the wrist, it feels light yet reassuringly sturdy—a testament to Rolex’s craftsmanship.
Conclusion
The Rolex GMT-Master II “Green Lantern” (Ref. 116710BLNR) is a stellar example of Rolex’s ability to fuse classic design with modern innovation. It performs admirably across design, comfort, and functionality, making it a top contender for anyone seeking a versatile luxury timepiece.
If you’re interested in purchasing this model, authorized retailers remain the best source, though availability may require joining a waiting list. For pre-owned or vintage models, trusted platforms like Chrono24, WatchBox, and Bob’s Watches are excellent alternatives.
Buyer discretion is advised for those considering replicas. Platforms like DHgate offer imitation models, such as those from seller fashion_watch888, but these lack the craftsmanship and precision that define Rolex’s reputation.
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