Rolex GMT-Master II 126711CHNR “Root Beer” (RRP – £15,450)

Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II 126711CHNR (Root Beer). Polished and brushed steel and rose gold case, 40mm diameter with larger winding crown. Automatic chronometer calibre 3285 movement. Black maxi dial with luminous index hour markers for chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence. A cyclops lens date window at the three o’clock position. Third arrow hand for GMT function. Black and brown ceramic bi-directional bezel with a 24 hour graduation scale. 18ct rose gold and steel oyster lock bracelet with comfort extension link and folding clasp. Box and papers dated November 2023. (RRP – £15,450)

The Rolex Root Beer, often associated with the GMT-Master II 16753 model, is a vintage timepiece that gained popularity in the 1970s. It earned its moniker due to its distinctive color scheme, which resembles the hues of root beer – featuring a brown dial and a brown and gold bezel. These watches were typically crafted in a two-tone (Rolesor) style, combining stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold. The Root Beer GMT-Master models were designed for pilots and travellers, equipped with the capability to track two time zones simultaneously. Over the years, Rolex released different versions and variations of the Root Beer theme, leading to collector interest and making them highly sought after.