SPECIFICATIONS:

Model: GMT Master II
Reference: 16710
Series: Y
Movement: Rolex Caliber 3185
Water Resistance: 330 ft./100 m.
Case: 903L grade Stainless steel
Crystal: Synthetic sapphire
Notes: The original GMT Master was created by Rolex back in the 1950's in conjunction with Pan Am airline as a tool to help their pilots who frequently crossed time zones. The Master II was introduced in the mid-1980's, and eventually replaced the original GMT Master (discontinued in 1999). Rolex purists have great affection for the GMT Master II as a tool watch with a great history and tradition among professional pilots. I acquired my Master II in February of 2004, and have been surprised by how much I enjoy wearing it. More often than not, it's the watch I enjoying switching too when I come home after a long day at the office. This early Y Series example is the last series to have drilled through lug holes (later in the Y series production run, Rolex switch to solid lugs without the hole visible from the outside of the lug).  During the 2007 Basel Watch Fair, Rolex confirmed that they would be discontinuing the 16710, and only offering the GMT Master two in the ceramic bezel versions (1167xx models).