Under the Loupe Rolex and Tudor Pepsi GMT Masters from Baselworld

We’re still talking about the biggest surprise of this year’s event – the dual release of new GMT models from both Rolex and its sister company Tudor. So, we asked David Duggan for his thoughts on why the GMT continues to make waves and what he makes of these new offerings.

The world’s biggest watch exhibition may have closed its doors for another year, but at One To Watch we’re still talking about the biggest surprise of this year’s event – the dual release of new GMT models from both Rolex and its sister company Tudor. So, we asked David Duggan for his thoughts on why the GMT continues to make waves and what he makes of these new offerings.

Rolex and Tudor's GMT Masters go head-to-head at Baselworld 2018

Rolex is known for making watches that appeal to specific audiences and the original GMT Master was no different. Featuring an extra hour hand and a 24-hour rotating bezel this timepiece was developed for Pan Am pilots after the American airline company asked for a watch that could tell the time in more than one time zone. The first model was released in 1954 and became an instant hit with pilots and travellers alike. More than half a century later it remains a firm favourite in the horological community, thanks to a combination of beautiful aesthetics and utter practicality. 

 

Rolex actually released three new references at Baselworld 2018: the GMT-Master II 126710 BLRO in stainless steel with the Pepsi bezel and a jubilee bracelet not seen on the model since its original debut; the 126711 CHNR in stainless steel and Rolex’s custom 18-carat Everose gold with a black and brown bezel; and the 126715 CHNR, in full 18-carat Everose gold.

Rolex's full GMT Master II range featuring the 126715 CHNR, in full 18-carat Everose gold

Each reference also features the new 3285 calibre Rolex movement. The self-winding new calibre both improves accuracy and extends the power reserve life to 70 hours compared to a previous 48. It also features Rolex’s Chronergy escapement, improving efficiency. There’s also the date cyclops for legibility, is waterproof to 100m and features the Easylink 5mm bracelet adjuster for those days when it just doesn’t fit quite right. 

 

Where the three models differ, though, is in their look. The GMT-Master II 126710 BLRO features one of Rolex’s most iconic features – the red and blue Pepsi bezel – and is an absolute stunner in my opinion. Meanwhile, the 126711 CHNR and 126715 CHNR feature a brand new black and brown bezel, giving the watch a vintage feel. I must admit, I’m not usually a fan of the steel and gold combination, but these are quite tempting.

Tudor's first GMT Master

 

The Tudor offering – the Black Bay GMT – meanwhile, was a complete surprise. Apparently the two brands had been working on their own designs and decided on a joint unveiling when they realised. Tudor’s GMT is the brand’s first foray into this popular complication and the watch comes in three different bracelet styles – the more traditional stainless-steel rivet-style bracelet; a leather strap with folding clasp, and a burgundy and black fabric strap.

Tudor's first GMT Master range

Each 41mm watch has the in-house Tudor movement, 70-hour power reserve, are COSC certified and have the silicone escapement, GMT function and stainless-steel bracelet.

 

But it’s the GMT’s bezel that really turned heads, with its more than passing resemblance to its Pepsi cousin. In fact, the red is taken from the Burgundy Heritage Black Bay and the blue from the Blue Heritage Black Bay and I think gives the timepiece a more sober feel than the shiny Pepsi. I’m a big fan of both options.

There are other details that make the GMT very much a Tudor timepiece, including the same dial and the snowflake hands that you’ll find on the Heritage Black Bay range. And all this for less than £3,000, making it an absolute winner for any collector who loves the original GMT aesthetic but not the Rolex price tag.

 

You can see the 2018 Tudor collection by visiting our Burlington Arcade showroom, and if it’s vintage or pre-owned Tudor or Rolex that you are looking for, you can view our collection online. If there is a specific Tudor timepiece you are after, please do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of our experienced team.