171 Rolex Extremely Well Preserved and Striking, GMT Master II Saru, Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Diamond, Sapphire and Ruby-Set Bezel, Full-set, Reference 116 748
Estimate: € 100,000 – 200,000
Model: GMT Master II
Reference: 116748SARU
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 2008
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 3185
Case N°: M543121
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Box and Papers
Designed to show the time in two different time zones simultaneously, the GMT-Master was launched in 1955, immediately represents the epitome of sportiness and efficiency. The use of precious materials for this specific model has always been limited despite references 6542 and 1675 were sometimes cased in precious metals, these were infrequent occurrences. While the craft expanded through the 1970s to include pavé dials and gem-set bezels, it was confined to dress watches. In the mid-1980s, though, Rolex blew the lid off the watch world and introduced the GMT-Master 16 758 SARU, bringing its gem-setting acumen to a sports watch. The lot here offered is a wonderful representative of the reference 116 748, the second iteration of this family, also nicknamed as “SARU” standing for “Sapphire” and “Ruby”. The GMT-Master II featuring an entirely redesigned case, a larger winding crown, a revised dial with modified indexes and green “GMT-Master II” signature was launched at the BaselWorld 2006, year of the 50th anniversary of this celebrated dual time wristwatch. Solid and robust, this very watch has a massive 40 mm case in 18k yellow gold nicely preserved, the sparkling bidirectional revolving bezel is enriched by the iconic set of 22 baguette white diamonds, a triangular white diamond, 18 baguette sapphires and 18 baguette rubies. It is very important to underline that this is the reference produced with this configuration in a few pieces, later it will be proposed with diamonds on the lugs as well under another reference. The final result is nothing short of spectacular as Rolex has managed the feat of balancing the sporty ethos of the watch and its bedazzling decoration.