GMT Archives - Watch Ideas

March 17, 2021April 7, 2021

Ball Watches Review: In-depth Review of Popular Ball Watches

We consulted different notable horologists and carried out in-depth ball watches review on the best models. With our findings, we chose the Ball Engineer Master II Diver as our favorite. The reason is that not only does it look elegant on the wrist, but it also has a high level of water resistance. What is even better is that it can withstand up to 5000Gs of shock and works great in areas with high magnetic fields.

Ball Watches Review

If you are looking for a watch company with an intriguing past, then you should check out the Bell Watch company. In the 19th century, the owner, Webb C. Ball, was the first watchmaker to design timepieces with standard time signals while holding a top post in the railroad industry.

He set up guidelines that many watch companies use to design precision watches. These rules affected several features, including the dial arrangement, power reserve, and anti-magnetism.

Presently, Ball creates watches with unique designs and features that show its railroad roots. With a Ball watch, you can partake in various activities under different conditions. This is because it comes with specs and a build that ensures durability and functionality.

On this Ball watches review, we will be looking closely at some of the brand popular timepieces and their features. We will also see if the features are worth its hefty price tag.

Short Story of Ball Watch

Although the company creates beautiful watches, its history is gloomy. It was born after a fatal train accident that was caused by poor timing from the authorities.

To prevent a similar occurrence, Webster C. Ball, a watchmaker, was appointed as the “Chief Time Inspector.” He created strict timing standards that led to the birth of the company’s logo. During this time, the company created timepieces with movements from Elgin, Waltham, and Hamilton. These watches had the words “Official RR Standard” printed on each of their dials.

In the mid and late 1900s, the company was sold due to low interest among consumers. But today, Ball has risen as an Asian brand that makes Swiss watches with several exciting features. These include its gas tubes for easy reading, sturdy built, and elegant dial.

Currently, a descendant of Webb Ball plays some roles in the company, but I am not sure of his duties. If you want to know more about Ball’s gloomy origins, you can visit its official website for more details.

Let’s get started with a Ball watch Fireman review, where I will tell you more about its impressive features.

Best Ball Watches

1. Ball Fireman Storm Chaser Pro

This new timepiece designed for storm chasers at all levels came into existence when they partnered with a member of the BALL Explorer club and Ball Ambassador, Dr. Joshua Wurman.

The Fireman Storm Chaser Pro is a sturdy watch that can withstand extreme physical activity. It also stands as a trendy, clean fashion accessory with practical features such as a robust build and luminous gas tubes. While we’re still on the review of ball watches, let’s see other specs Firestorm chaser has to offer.

Case

The Storm Chaser Pro features a 42mm steel case that measures 16mm in height. This size might come as a relief, especially for people who think the current Storm Chaser is too bulky.

The dial inside the case depends on the variant of the Storm Pro. One model offers a white dial while two others have either a black or grey dial. But all dials house glowing microtubes with which you can read the watch in poorly lit environments or at night.

Dial

Another reason to love the Storm Chaser Pro is its legible and functional display. Here, you have a telemeter scale with which you can measure your distance from a lightning strike. Moreover, the chronograph begins during a lightning strike and ends when thunder rumbles. It has two sub-dial, and at the 3 o’clock marker, a display window shows the day and date.

Movement

This watch includes the Ball Ball’sBall’s RR1402 automatic chronograph movement. With such a feature, the timepiece promises 25 jewels and a power reserve of 48 hours. Overall, it offers a high level of precise timekeeping.

Bezel

The top of the case has a narrow bezel which makes the watch look bigger. This bezel is made of aluminum and stands as the thinnest on any Ball watch. It also secures anti-reflective sapphire crystal on this timepiece.

Price

Many horologist and watch lovers are always intrigued to get ball timepieces because of its impressive designs. And it is no doubt because they keep on offering new models that are unique in their own way. The best part is that they never fail to make their watch eye-catching and easy to read due to the micro gas illumination feature. With the price of the Firestorm chaser pro below $3000 and its high shock resistance, it worth to be a great investment for anyone looking for the best firefighter watches or elegant timepieces.

Wearability

Like most Ball watches, the Fireman Storm Chaser comes in a calfskin leather strap. Although it has a unique look, it fits with the overall design of this Ball watch. It even feels soft against the skin, thereby making it an ideal item for prolonged use.

If you prefer metal, you can purchase the timepiece with a stainless bracelet, but at a different price. For lovers of other types of straps, you can replace any of the mentioned designs with your preferred bracelet option.

Opinion and Drawbacks

Despite its affordable price, the Storm Chaser Pro can hold its own against expensive watches. After all, it boasts of gas tubes that do not require a recharge while sporting an attractive but durable design. However, it might look out of place on smaller wrists because of its chunky case.

2. Ball Engineer Master II Diver Black Face

As expected from a brand with over a century of matchmaking, Ball has created a diving timepiece that maintains a vintage look while offering elegance and durability. This watch – the Ball Engineer Master II Diver, also promises exceptional water resistance, without sacrificing its impressive design.

Fortunately, it costs less than $2,000, which makes it an ideal item for the budget-conscious watch snob. Here are other specs on this timepiece that make it a worthy investment.

Case

This part of the watch is circular and measures 41.5m with a 14mm thickness, thereby making it comfortable for extended use. It has a stainless steel case that looks attractive on the wrist and can handle the pressures of knocks and moisture. You will also find it easy to clean.

The watch also has a screw-down case back that provides a water-tight seal. With such features, it stays protected from splashes and prevents dust and dirt from entering the watch.

Dial

There are many things to love about the dial of the Ball Engineer Master II Diver. First, it comes in black with white inner bezels, giving it a luxurious and practical feel. It also has micro gas tubes on its markers for easy reading under low light conditions.

A sheet of sapphire glass covers the elegant dial. This crystal can resist scratches while offering improved readability with its anti-reflective coating.

Strap

A stainless steel bracelet holds the watch to your wrist. For added security, Ball added a folding buckle to the end of the bracelet. Overall, there is no need to worry about losing your watch during physical activities on land or sea.

If you don’t like the feel of metal, you can swap this part for a rubber strap with a standard buckle. Although it looks weaker than steel, it can handle moisture and offer comfort at the same time.

Movement

Ball watches have a reputation for accurate timekeeping due to its classic movement. Here, the Ball Engineer Master II Diver uses a Swiss Automatic that offers the same level of accuracy with ease.

Water Resistance

Unlike other timepieces listed in this ball watches review, the Engineer Master Diver II has a high level of water resistance. It offers a water resistance of 300m. With this said, you can use the watch for various aquatic activities including swimming and scuba diving. It also has a screw-down crown that helps keep moisture and dust out of its internal components.

Anti-Magnetism

Typically, automatic watches are more precise than manual variants. However, this accuracy can be affected by magnetic fields.

If you are looking for a watch that can perform in areas with high magnetic fields, choose the Ball Engineer Master II Diver. It can withstand magnetism up to 12,000 A/m.

Opinion and Drawbacks

The watch is an attractive but not an affordable option for the watch enthusiast or professional diver. It also offers a higher level of accuracy because of its anti-magnetic properties. However, it might look bulky on smaller wrists.

3. Ball Gents-Wristwatch Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT II

If you are a fan of high-end GMT models, but you are shopping on a budget, then you should add the Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT II to your list. This is because it cost less and has similar specs offered on watches from flagship brands.

These specs include a readable dial and an attractive rotating bezel. It also has a build that can handle knocks, falls without showing signs of wear, and tear. Below are some of the exciting features on the timepiece.

Case

Without adding the crown, the case on this item measures at 42mm while having a thickness of 14mm. With such dimensions, the watch will fit various wrist sizes without adding extra weight to them.

This case is made of stainless steel which remains attractive after years of repeated uses. It even has a sapphire crystal that can resist scratches with ease.

Dial

The design on the watch includes a black dial surrounded by a movable sapphire bezel with luminous markers. On the dial, it features luminous hands, which allow easy readability at night. The anti-reflective coating on the crystal further enhances this legibility.

You can read the date at the position between the 4 and 5 o’clock position. If you want to check the day of the week, you will have to move to the window on 3 o’clock position.

Strap

The watch has a tapered stainless steel bracelet which ends in a folding buckle and extension buckle. Such a feature helps the timepiece remain on your wrist during any physical activity. Moreover, the material used can withstand corrosion with ease.

The watch also comes in a model that includes a rubber strap with a standard buckle. As expected, this strap can also handle corrosion and offer comfort like the metal variant.

Power Reserve

Apart from offering a reasonable level of accuracy, the movement also supports a power reserve of 42 hours. This reserve ensures you enjoy similar accuracy timekeeping even if the watch is not on your wrist. It also prevents you from winding the watch at regular intervals.

GMT Functions

Since the watch is designed for the global traveler, it includes a GMT feature with dual time zones. This feature helps you know the time in your home city and destination with relative ease.

Opinion and Drawbacks

Investing in the Ball Gents-Wristwatch Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT II is not a poor choice. This is true especially as it has features that suit all forms of activity, including air travel. These include a robust build, GMT functions, readable dial, and comfortable strap. Besides, it is more affordable at less than $4,000.

But its 42mm case might look bulky thereby making it unsuitable for smaller wrists. It also has a water resistance of 100m which cannot hold against diving or swimming for long periods.

Ball Watches Review: Do They Worth the Investment

This brings us to the final roundup of the Ball watches review. With origins rooted in railroad history, Ball has designed watches that fit various activities and looks. For instance, Ball Engineer Master II Diver has impressive features for the pro-diver. As for the Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT , it handles the timing needs of international travel while the Storm Chaser Pro is a perfect choice for storm chasing and one of the best watches for Firefighter.

Although they have impressive features, they are high-end watches. Ball watchmaker offers specs that include a durable design, micro gas tubes, Swiss automatic movement, and power reserve. Furthermore, they can rival the options offered by expensive brands.

In summary, you can get an excellent Ball watches for half the price of either a Rolex or Omega timepiece with similar specs. So if you are on the lookout for a vintage watch that combines modern design and specs for a reasonable price, you should consider checking Ball’s line of watches.

February 16, 2021February 17, 2021

Rolex GMT vs Submariner: A Showdown of Two Very Similar Rolexes

When it comes to Rolex luxury sports watches, the Rolex GMT and Submariner are two of the most well-known models from Rolex’s lineup.

Many friends and loved ones have asked me about which Rolex timepieces to buy and many inquiries are about the Rolex GMT vs Submariner. At first glance, it’s easy to think that the GMT Master and Submariner is basically the same watch.

However, the devil is always in the details.

So for today’s head-to-head comparison, we are taking a closer look at the Rolex Submariner and the Rolex GMT Master II, and how they stack up against each other.

Rolex GMT vs Submariner: Specs Comparison

For this head-to-head comparison, we’ll review the Rolex GMT Master II reference 116710 and the Rolex Submariner reference 116610.

But first, let us take a look at the key specs for both the GMT Master II and Submariner.

Model:	Rolex GMT Master II	Rolex Submariner
Reference #:	116710	116610
Model case:	Oyster, 40 mm, Oystersteel	Oyster, 40 mm, Oystersteel
Dial Color:	Black	Black
Oyster architecture:	Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back, and winding crown	Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back, and winding crown
Material:	Oystersteel	Oystersteel
Bezel:	Bidirectional rotatable 24-hour graduated bezel. Two-color brown and black Cerachrom insert in ceramic, engraved numerals, and graduations	Unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated, scratch-resistant Cerachrom insert in ceramic, numerals and graduations coated in platinum
Winding crown:	Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system	Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system
Crystal:	Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date	Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date
Water Resistance:	100 meters / 330 feet	300 meters / 1,000 feet
Movement:	Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding	Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding
Caliber:	3285, Manufacture Rolex	3135, Manufacture Rolex
Functions:	Centre hour, minute, and seconds hands. 24-hour display. Second-time zone with independent rapid-setting of the hour hand. Instantaneous date. Stop-seconds for precise time setting	Centre hour, minute, and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting
Oscillator:	–	Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring
Power reserve:	70 hours	48 hours
Bracelet:	Oyster, flat three-piece links	Oystersteel
Clasp:	Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link	Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system

Rolex GMT vs Submariner: Head-to-Head Review

Design

In terms of design, no one will blame you if you think that both watches look very similar.

Both timepieces are housed in the 40mm diameter which is often referred to as the “super case.” The case features thicker lugs and crown guards which give off a bolder and chunkier appearance. Of course, both cases are done in 904L stainless steel (with the GMT receiving it a year later than the Submariner).

Both watches also come with the signature Oyster bracelet. However, the style of clasp and the polish are done differently on each of the watches. If you look closely, the GMT Master II bracelet’s center link features a high-gloss polish while the Submariner received a brushed satin finish for its bracelet.

Being a dive watch, Submariner gets the folding Oysterlock safety clasp with the proprietary Glidelock extension system. On the other hand, the GMT’s Oyster bracelet comes with a simple folding Oysterlock safety clasp with the Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link.

The bezel design is one of the key differences between the GMT Master II and Submariner. The Submariner is fitted with a 60-minute scale bezel which is used as a dive timer. On the flip side, the GMT Master features a 24-hour bezel for use in combination with the GMT hand.

Other models of the GMT also adds a splash of color which makes it more interesting for more people. I particularly enjoy the GMT model with the iconic Pepsi bezel. The Submariner has retained its iconic black dial over the years. However, the Submariner does have other color options like the vibrant green “The Hulk” Submariner.

Movement

Aside from a number of cosmetic differences, one of the most major differences between the GMT Master II and Submariner is their movements.

The reference 116610 Submariner is powered by the venerable Caliber 3135 movement which remained unchanged since 1988. The Caliber 3135 is a standard 3-hand automatic movement (hours, minutes, and seconds) with a date complication. Nothing much to say here but it’s a workhorse movement that gets the job done.

On the other hand, the reference 116710 GMT-Master II is fitted with the in-house Caliber 3186 movement. It also comes with a date complication and the hour hand can be adjusted independently. Like with all GMT Master models, the GMT Master II has a 4^th GMT hand. This allows you to adjust the hour hand separately from the GMT hand.

As a result, GMT owners can simultaneously reference three time zones when used in combination with the watch’s rotating 24-hour bezel.

Both movements are COSC certified and run at +/- 2 seconds per day. In addition, both movements are equipped with Parachrom Bleu hairspring which protects the movement from magnetic fields and shocks. It’s also worth noting that the aesthetic of both movements is also fairly similar.

The power reserve of the GMT is far superior to the Submariner. The former boasts a 70-hour power reserve while the latter offers 48 hours of power reserve. This should not be an issue for most people but should you go on a weekend without wearing a watch, the difference in power reserve should show itself.

Functionality

When it comes to buying Rolex watches, you’re not really looking at your options with functionality in mind. As you can see, both the GMT and Submariner have their own uses.

However, just how do they stack up when it comes to day to day use?

For overall functionality, I reckon that the GMT Master II has the upper hand over the Submariner. The GMT function is just so robust and flexible that I can see myself using it more in daily life. From timing something while in the kitchen to deciding whether it’s time to call a loved one from another country, the GMT Master II can handle these tasks with little to no problem.

Sure, a smartphone is good enough for such tasks but there’s just something satisfying about looking down on your wrist to tell the time. With that said, jet-lagged travelers and jet-setters will have a lot to love about the GMT functions of the GMT Master II.

As for the Rolex Submariner, I can also time things but that’s about it. If I am a professional diver or someone who’s always near the water, the possibilities for the Submariner certainly do open up. After all, the Sub can handle depths to 300 meters. The Submariner’s water-resistance does add a great deal of ruggedness to the watch.

But alas, I’ll never come close to 300 meters of depth which means that the Submariner’s greatest asset is now moot. However, you really can’t underestimate the ruggedness and reliability of the Submariner for everyday use.

This feels like I’m grasping for straws here but the GMT Master II certainly has the upper hand when it comes to pure timepiece functionality.

Pricing

Looking at the price of the Submariner Date and the GMT Master II, they are about in the same price range. The GMT Master II is the pricier between the two but the price difference won’t be much of an issue – at least to an avid Rolex collector.

However, if the budget is tight and every dollar matters, the Submariner Date is the no-brainer option. It might be the less expensive watch between the two, it’s certainly not the inferior model. You will be getting your hands on a legendary timepiece that’s literally timeless. If you want, you may even opt for the more affordable standard Rolex Submariner, if you think you won’t miss the date aperture.

There’s more watch here than you can shake a stick at.

However, for pure functionality alone, the Rolex GMT Master II is hands down the better value for the money. This is especially true if you are always traveling abroad or simply want a watch with a GMT feature.

Rolex GMT vs Submariner: The Verdict

This concludes our Rolex GMT vs Submariner head-to-head review, so what’s the verdict?

From the design to the specs and features, you could swear that the Rolex GMT Master II and Rolex Submariner are essentially the same watches. However, as you can see, there are numerous key differences that set apart one from the other.

If you are giving me the choice between the Rolex Submariner or GMT Master II, I’ll have to give it to the GMT. Give me the Pepsi-bezeled GMT and all bets are off.

Don’t get me wrong though.

If you are an avid reader of WatchIdeas, you’ll know that I am the biggest fan of the Submariner. However, in this particular head-to-head comparison, the GMT edges out the black-dialed Rolex classic.

It is just that I think I’ll be able to use the GMT Master II in the spirit it was intended when compared to the Submariner. There’s just more watch that the GMT can offer more than the Sub. However, when it comes to the price, it’s really hard to go wrong with the Submariner and you won’t be missing much.

If you’re someone who’s having this conundrum, I’d say that it’s a good problem to have – but it’s also a very tricky choice. One has a GMT feature and a more complex movement while the other offers superior water resistance and ruggedness.

It’s really up to you to decide where you think your money is worth it.

January 22, 2021January 26, 2021

Frederique Constant Worldtimer Review: A Serious World Time Watch for the Money

Fredrique Constant Worldtimer Review Featured

When it comes to luxury watches, people tend to stick with the usual suspects like Rolex and Omega. However, if you are such a collector, you are missing out on some of the best high-quality luxury watches out there. This is exactly why I have decided to write this Frederique Constant Worldtimer review.

Personally, I really like the Frederique Constant brand because they are quite great at offering high-quality timepieces with in-house movements at fairly reasonable prices. Many luxury brands still demand absurd prices for their watches while using classic ETA movements.

For me, the brand name alone just won’t cut it.

Frederique Constant is a brand close to my heart since they have brought unique watches to the table for reasonable. Is this the case with the Frederique Constant Worldtimer?

Let’s take a closer look!

Frederique Constant Worldtimer Review: At a Glance

As you can see, the Frederique Constant Worldtimer is a true worldtimer, it’s not just a GMT watch with cities ring. Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let us first take a look at the key specs and features of the watch:

Model:	Frederique Constant Classic Worldtimer Manufacture
Reference no.	FC-718NWM4H6
Movement:	FC-718 Automatic movement. 26 jewels, 28’800 alt/h with Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date, Worldtimer
Power reserve:	42 hours
Case material:	Stainless steel
Case diameter:	42 mm
Crown:	2-O-Rings crown
Crystal:	Convex Sapphire
Water-resistance:	Water-resistant to 5 ATM
Height:	12.1 mm
Dial:	Navy, world map, applied white luminous indexes.
Strap:	Alligator Strap

First Impression

Today, we’ll be taking a closer look at the Frederique Constant Classic Worldtimer Manufacture, reference FC-718NWM4H6.

As I held the watch in my hands, my eyes are immediately drawn to the world timer dial. I am too fond of dials that are way too busy but it seems Frederique Constant knows how to pull it off well. If you like your information with an in your face approach, this watch might just be for you.

With that said, Frederique Constant did a great job with this stunning dial. It certainly sports a very unique look and it’s how you pull off a dressier traveler’s watch. Despite the sheer complexity of the dial, I can see traditional watchmaking design elements such as the elegant alpha hands and the beautiful sunburst finish.

But surely, this watch would be difficult to use, right? Despite its busy profile, the Frederique Constant Worldtimer features one of the easiest world time complication I’ve used.

The predominant navy blue works rather well with the multi-layered approach of the design. While it does feed you information that you probably don’t need each and every time, pulling out the info that you need becomes a non-issue once you get used to the watch.

Also, I’ve been getting compliments and “where did you buy that” questions while wearing the watch.

The Worldtimer Dial

The Worldtimer dial is easily the star of this timepiece.

The dial’s centerpiece is the gray anthracite world map with illuminated applied hour markers. The innermost ring is the bi-color 24-hour ring, the white refers to the traditional day hours and blue for the traditional dark hours.

The outermost ring is the city-ring which can be operated via the crown. The different cities correspond to each major time zones. The city ring is aligned with the 24-hour ring and is used to display the corresponding time.

Now, this may seem to be confusing but the watch is actually quite simple to use. Basically, you simply have to set the city that represents your home timezone to the 12 o’clock position. This is done by rotating the crown counterclockwise at the first stop. Once the ring is set to your home time in the city ring, you can then look at any other time zone to know the time. The rest of the work is left to the movement.

It’s a really elegant solution without complicating things so much.

As for the actual design of the dial, it is fairly stylish with an upmarket look. While there’s a lot going on in the dial, it’s wonderfully legible including the names of the cities.

If there’s one thing I’m not sure of is the large date sub-dial at 6 o’clock. On one hand, I appreciate that they made the date dial large enough for legibility but it annoyingly obscures five of the twenty time zones and a considerable part of the world map. A simple date window or even an “oversized” date window is a much better solution.

Regardless of the date dial, the Frederique Constant Worldtimer’s dial is a resounding success.

Construction and Wearability

The Worldtimer is 42 mm in diameter and 12.1 mm in thickness. The three-piece case is made with polished stainless steel and the case back is sapphire. The 42 mm might seem a bit too large for many people but it’s actually the perfect size for this watch.

The complexity of the dial alone warrants a larger diameter, any less would negatively impact the Worldtimer’s legibility. Even with the larger diameter, the Frederique Constant Worldtimer doesn’t feel like a 42 mm watch. This can be attributed to the designer’s decision to include a domed case. As a result, the watch looks and feels smaller than it is.

Comfort is also a non-issue which is a way of saying that it wears comfortably. It never felt too heavy and sits nicely on the wrist. The curve of the lugs is rather smooth unlike in other watches that are sharp. I don’t know about you but I don’t like the feel of lugs poking against my skin.

The Worldtimer comes with a navy alligator strap with off-white stitching. Along with the polished case, the inclusion of the alligator strap adds up to a rather sharp-looking timepiece. Imagine yourself wearing a dressier travel watch as you jaunt from one country to the next.

The watch oozes traditional elegance but with a contemporary twist as well.

The other brown dial version (ref: FC-718WM4H6B) comes with a light brown leather strap with white stitches.

Timekeeping

You can’t have a Frederique Constant Worldtimer review without talking about its in-house movement. The entire Worldtimer collection is powered by the in-house FC-718 caliber movement. Other watchmakers could have thrown in a standard GMT movement and called it a day.

However, that’s not the case with Frederique Constant’s world time watch.

The FC-718 Manufacture automatic caliber features 26 jewels and a 42-hour power reserve. World times generally need at least one additional pusher for advancing things but not so much here. With the FC-718 movement, everything is done via the crown and that’s a design decision that I can get behind.

Frederique Constant not only made an in-house movement but they also made it in a way that everything can be adjusted via the crown – no additional pushers or buttons here. This makes the watch a breeze to operate despite looking complicated on the surface.

The movement is a thing of beauty as well and thanks to the transparent crystal case back, viewing the movement is made possible. The movement is designed to be clean and simple from the ground up. Timekeeping works great and I have yet to encounter any issues.

For this price point, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a timepiece with a stunning in-house movement.

Pricing

Watch folks are a tough crowd and they will turn up their noses just with the price alone. This is quite a shame since many collectors would probably shy away from Frederique Constant Worldtimer just because of the accessible price.

True enough, the Frederique Constant Worldtimer is offered at a rather unexpected price. With a high-quality, polished design and an in-house movement, many of you are probably asking: “what’s the catch?”

Honestly, there is none!

What we have here is a full-featured World Time watch that delivers in quality and features. There are also some smart design decisions here that make the watch a cinch to use. Even if you are not familiar with using world time models, the Worldtimer is a good model to get you started.

Seriously, one of the most attractive aspects of the watch is its price point. This package offers great value for the dollar.

Should You Get the Frederique Constant Worldtimer?

This Frederique Constant Worldtimer review won’t be complete without our final verdict.

So should you bother looking in the direction of the Frederique Constant Worldtimer? Absolutely!

If you are looking for this style of world timer, the Frederique Constant Worldtimer offers a value, unlike anything you’ve seen before. While the complex dial makes it seem like a tough piece to use, operating the watch is actually very intuitive. Everything is done via the crown so you don’t have to fiddle around with pushers or buttons for setting the watch.

The Frederique Constant Classic Worldtimer Manufacture is highly recommended for buyers who are looking to get into the realm of world time watches. It’s also a great option for jet setters who prefer a classier and dressier watch than the sportier GMTs on the market. Overall, it’s a unique timepiece that offers excellent versatility.

On the other hand, this watch is not for you if you like your dials plain and simple. There’s really a lot going on with the watch and there’s a bit of a learning curve to it. The date dial obscuring many of the dial elements can also be a deal-breaker for many collectors.

The Frederique Constant Classic Worldtimer looks great, inside and out. Plus, it’s versatile and very easy to use with a low entry barrier in terms of price.

December 2, 2020December 3, 2020

Rolex 16700 Vs. 16710 GMT Face-off: Will it be Pepsi or Coke?

Two Rolex GMT models. One winner. Which watch will defeat all odds and take home the gold, Rolex 16700 vs 16710?

Now that you got your reality television show introduction, you know it is time for another amazing watch review. Both the Rolex GMT 16700 and the Rolex GMT 16710, are fantastic watches. But sadly I have to make the decision between the two so my ~~greedy~~ amazing readers can be happy and choose one. With that being said, due to the latest design and updates paired with a handsome, yet classic look, I have to recommend the Rolex GMT 16710 for the win. If you want more details as to why, just read below……..

Compare and Contrast

Here is a closer look at what makes the watches different (not much). Very subtle differences separate the two. The main factor is the movement.

Rolex GMT 16700	Rolex GMT 16710
2.5 mag. cyclops	2.5 mag. cyclops
Stainless steel bracelet	Stainless steel bracelet (matte)
40mm case	40mm case
Oyster bracelet	Oyster bracelet
Multi-colored bezel (2 choices)	Multicolored bezel (3 choices)
Black dial w/ luminescent hands	Black dial w/ luminescent hands
31 jewel, 3175 Calibre movement	31 jewel, 3185 or 3186 movement (independent hour hand)

Rolex GMT 16700

Despite the unavoidable loss, this watch should not be looked down upon. It is an expertly crafted model from Rolex, that offers distinct features and unbelievable reliability. It did in fact, last for over ten years (1988-1999). That tells you something for a watch. I would recommend this piece to those who are wanting a top-notch watch at a great price!

Design

Rolex always has great designs with their watches. And the same can be said for the GMT 16700. With a well-sized 40mm case and a multicolored bezel that just screams out buy me! This model features an elegant red color on the bottom half of the bezel and a “Pepsi” blue on the top. The colors fit perfectly and actually match very well with the dark black dial and the red second hand.

Due to the color scheme, some people may stray away from wearing this watch with dress clothes. But I say, go AHEAD! In my opinion, the tones from all of the colors present a very strong, elegant, yet fancy aura. One that will grab the attention of anyone surrounding.

Keep it Classic

Even though the watch has innovative, new features that are not native to the original GMT. The timepiece still has an overall classic design. For one, if the blue and red bezel throws you off, the watch still features a 2.5 magnifying cyclops, sitting atop the domed sapphire crystal and a bi-directional bezel. Familiar, yet different at the same time. A well-deserved rating of 4.5/5 stars goes to the design of this watch.

Movement

We all know by now (I hope) that Rolex always uses top-notch movements inside of their watches. But as time passes, some become more innovative and reliable than others.

The GMT 16700 uses a caliber 3175 automatic movement. It has a hacking and quickset function to set the time. Hacking just means that when the twistable crown is pulled out, the second hand HALTS, to ensure more accurate timekeeping. Quickset, just means that the date can be changed quickly, without the hour hand having to pass 12 am. As for reliability, this watch does not disappoint.

The 31 jewel, 28,000 vibrations per hour, makes it so the watch runs smooth and accurate. A slight downfall to the ref. 16700, is the one hour hand, that is independent. Newer models feature an independent hour hand, so three time zones can be accounted for. Important if you are a pilot, not so much if you are anything else. With all of that accounted for, a solid 4/5 rating is given to the movement.

Value

Despite the long run of the GMT 16700, not many models were actually produced. That being said, this is actually a rarer watch, that is harder to find than similarly styled Rolex watches.

You can still find these models at cheaper prices than newer models from trustworthy websites, but expect that to change in the future, not that I am a fortune-teller or anything. Just due to the rarity of the piece, I can assume that prices will, in fact, raise as the watch becomes more vintage. Vintage + rare = money money money!

Can you find better GMT models around the same price? Certainly. But newer mass-produced models do not have as much history as the 16700. You get a luxurious watch, with precision craftsmanship and features that set it apart from other models. So I give the value rating, a humble 4.5/5. This is definitely on my purchase list in the near future.

Durability

A feature that should be one of the most important when deciding on a watch. You do not want a flimsy watch that will damage very easily. Not that ANY Rolex watches are not durable. This is something Rolex takes seriously. The GMT 16700 is no exception.

Solid, strong stainless steel case, a sapphire, scratch-resistant crystal, and water resistance up to 100m (this is great for a non- dive watch). So if you treat the watch well, and don’t drop it from a plane, normal wear and tear should not affect the watch. It should hold its own.

Rolex GMT 16710

What do you know? A bright red and Pepsi blue again!

Now don’t let the same color fool you. There is ALOT of upgrades on this watch as compared to the older 16700. This was one of the FIRST watches by Rolex that was able to account for up to three time zones. As insane as it sounds, it was a very important factor for pilots years ago, who relied solely on watches to tell time.

Design

Are you going with Pepsi, Coke or all black?

If you live in Atlanta like me, you must go COKE….

The design is basically identical to the 16700, with some minor changes. You still have the choice between Pepsi and all black, but with the addition of the Coke color scheme, you get another choice (or you can buy them all).

Besides the Coke coloring, the watch also features a matte bracelet that really shines and gives the watch a strong, luxurious, and wealthy look. Everything else is just about the same when it comes to design, a cyclops, black dial, 40 mm steel case, and oyster bracelet all match the 16700 model. But due to the few upgrades, the GMT 16710 pulls a victory with a 4.7/5.

Are you in love with all the color schemes, and can’t decide on just one? An interesting fact is that you can buy separate bezels, so you can have more than one watch display! This goes for both the 16700 and 16710.

Movement

If you thought the caliber 3175 was good enough, be prepared to be amazed by the caliber 3185! Not many Rolex models use this movement. So it is an unwanted movement that is crafted to perfection, hence why it is not used in every watch.

The Caliber 3185 is fitted with a 31 jewel 28,800 vibrations per hour, automatic movement. The addition of the independent hour hand and the 50 power reserve, make it even more unique. Reliability is an understatement when describing this watch. Who else can tell a friend what time it is in three different time zones on their watch (Smartphones don’t count)!

A 4.8/5 is the rating I give to the movement on this piece. What is even more amazing? Models made after 2005 use a 5186 MOVEMENT! So even more of an upgrade!

Value

Although it may have been produced more than the 16700, the GMT 16710 is a watch that I expect to grow in value as well. A main factor in the battle is all of the upgrades this watch has. So despite the fact that there may be fewer of the 16700’s out there, they are not as advanced as the 16710’s. And you have more colors you can choose from.

This model was discontinued as well. So it will soon be known as vintage as well. Like all watches, if you have this model, keep it in good condition and you won’t be disappointed with the value. 4.6/5 rating on value.

Durability

The 16710 is just as durable as the previous model. Not really any differences here. Everything pretty much mirrors the 16700. Take care of the piece and it should be looking as good as new for a very long time!

A Win Due to Advancements

As I mentioned throughout the article, there is not a lot of difference between these two models. What you do get is a more advanced piece with the 16710, which may be a selling point for many watch enthusiasts. I tend to live by the motto, if you are purchasing a luxury, high-grade watch, buy the best one.

Since these two are so similar, why not go with the upgraded model? Now, if mechanical advancements are not a big deal to you, either watch is a great choice.

Can you even see the difference?

If not, don’t feel bad. The differences are minor. The best advice I can give to anyone purchasing either one of these watches is to buy from a reliable source like Amazon. Too many counterfeits are in circulation, make sure you are purchasing the real thing!