Rolex GMT-Master II Ref 116719BLRO: The Pepsi Look in Precious Metal
Rolex watches for women and men are available in several colors and finishes. While the standard is stainless steel, the Swiss brand is known for offering several distinct styles that become sought-after collectibles. The Ref 116719BLRO Rolex white gold watch is one example.
This timepiece is part of Rolex's long-running GMT-Master II collection. The original GMT-Master appeared in 1954 before ,Rolex introduced the next generation in 1982. Today, Rolex GMT Master II watches are one of the brand's most popular ongoing lines. Ref 116719BLRO offers that classic design with a luxurious twist.
The Signature GMT-Master II Two-Toned Look
The Rolex GMT Master II watches are no stranger to two-toned color schemes. It's one of the most defining elements of the lineup. Ref 116719 continues that legacy, bringing the iconic Pepsi bezel into the modern era.
Ref 116719BLRO was only in production for a few short years between 2014 and 2018. Many years prior, in 2005, Rolex introduced the world to Cerachrom, a proprietary ceramic material. The watchmaker utilized Cerachrom on the bezels to replace the older aluminum inserts. Cerachrom is more scratch- and fade-resistant. As a result, it started to appear in most Rolex watches for men and women. That includes references in the Rolex GMT Master II line.
However, there was one issue. For years after Cerachrom became standard, Rolex didn't release a two-tone model. Many believed that achieving a two-tone look wasn't possible with the new material. Rolex put that worry to rest with Ref 116719. It's the first watch in the GMT-Master II collection to have a two-tone bezel.
In this case, the bezel combines blue and red. The color combination is reminiscent of the Pepsi brand, earning the unique nickname. Originally, Rolex used the two-tone scheme to make it easier to see day and night hours when displaying multiple time zones. Nowadays, it's a signature design feature.
18-Karat White Gold
At first glance, Ref 116719BLRO looks like other GMT-Master IIs released around the same time. But upon closer examination, you'll see that this piece doesn't have the standard Oystersteel. Instead, it's forged from 18-karat white gold from Rolex's in-house foundry.
The 40-millimeter case is entirely white gold. The same goes for the Oyster bracelet it comes with. Because Rolex has its own foundry, the watchmaker has full control over the precious metal alloys it uses. While other white gold watches exist, they're not as common as stainless steel.
Other Key Features
The Ref 116719BLRO Rolex white gold watch continues a legacy of refinement. Every iteration of the GMT-Master II improved upon the last, and this model is no different. Here are a few core features of Ref 116719BLRO:
- Caliber 3186 automatic movement
- Super case design
- Black Maxi dial
- Bidirectional bezel
- Sapphire crystal with Cyclops lens
- White gold three-link Oyster bracelet with Easylink extension
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