Early looks at Rolex’s lineup from 2023’s Watches & Wonders event revealed two new gray/black bezel variants of the GMT-Master II in yellow gold and two-tone. The combination—especially the all-gold reference—is surprising for its blending of gray and gold coloration. It’s an uncommon pairing of hues that builds on 2022’s destro version of the GMT-Master II, adding evidence that Rolex sees the line as a place for experimentation. Held up against Rolex’s other releases for 2023, it’s certainly one of the more probing pieces outside of the Day-Date line.

 

The new two-tone version (“Rolesor”, as the brand calls it) joins the current lineup as the only current steel/gold offering on Rolex’s jubilee bracelet, giving it extra clout as a neo-vintage piece that will likely attract collectors, although that’s not saying much even in today’s softened Rolex market. Within minutes of pictures appearing on social media, fans dubbed the new Cerachrom bezel variant the “Guinness”, a fitting moniker that joins the “Pepsi”, “Coke”, “Root Beer”, and other beverage-themed GMT nicknames.

Taking stock of the current state of the GMT-Master II lineup, it was certainly an Oystersteel world before today. Just two of the ten references were obviously gold, while two more variants featured full white-gold construction, making them blend in with the rest of the steely collection. By adding yellow gold to the mix, Rolex introduces not just a new color to the GMT-Master II family, but one that is bright and distinct from the more understated Everose versions. To be clear, the 2023 releases in the GMT-Master II line do not represent an overhaul of the collection. Dimensions from the 40mm case to the 3285 Manufacture Rolex movement remain the same, as do the legible details of the dial, typeface, and bracelet. However, thanks to Rolex’s unique global demand, combined with the GMT-Master II’s position in the brand catalog as a flagship model, adding more gold to the mix is interesting. Especially with the two-tone model, it signals a degree of staying-power for what might otherwise have been a fading trend. Like it or not, Rolex has been a horological tastemaker for decades and lending the credence of the GMT-Master II to yellow gold will ensure the recent “gold revival” is here to stay at least a while longer. The new GMT-Master II variants are priced at $16,450 and $38,900 USD, respectively, for the two-tone and full gold variants. Learn more at Rolex’s website.

Specifications:

Brand: Rolex

Model: GMT-Master II

Dimensions: 40mm diameter

Water Resistance: 100 meters

Case Material: Oystersteel and yellow gold (ref: M126713GRNR-0001), yellow gold (ref: M126718GRNR-0001)

Crystal/Lens: Sapphire

Movement: 3285, Manufacture Rolex (GMT, time, and date)

Power Reserve: 70 hours

Strap/Bracelet: Jubilee, five-piece links. Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link.

Price & Availability: $16,450 (two-tone) and $38,900 USD (full gold)