Difference between current/previous generation GMT Master II

[mturnerb]

Hello all:

I am trying to understand the differences between the current (those with 3285 movement) and prior (those with 3185, ceramic bezel) GMT Master II, other than the movements.

I have Submariners from both generations (114060 and 126613LN) and understand the differences in diameter/lugs etc, but I don't know what changed on the case/lug dimensions in the similar GMT generations.

Thanks in advance!

[S.Explorer]

Very subtle change in case profile (slightly slimmer lugs on the 126 series). Option of a Jubilee bracelet and different bezel colours available (still not interchangeable).

[oldsheepdog]

My understanding is the lugs were slimmed up a bit. When I put them side by side I struggle to see it. Otherwise it’s just power reserve and the addition of the coronet at the six. They wear identically for me. There is a decent video on YouTube from Bob’s Watches that I am unable to provide due to post count.

[mturnerb]

Originally Posted by oldsheepdog

My understanding is the lugs were slimmed up a bit. When I put them side by side I struggle to see it. Otherwise it’s just power reserve and the addition of the coronet at the six. They wear identically for me. There is a decent video on YouTube from Bob’s Watches that I am unable to provide due to post count.

Thanks - I'll look for that video!

[joli160]

There must be minor differences but not noticeable.
I have a GMT TT 116713 and a CHNR 126711.
They look exactly the same

[JRell]

Slimmer lugs much needed. I am obsessed with lugs lol. The biggest difference is the jubilee. I feel it is a must have with a GMT, unique to the Rolex sports line.

[SS Oyster]

3285 vs 3186
70hr vs 50hr power reserve (bigger barrel)
Bearing vs pinion rotor
10yr vs 5yr service interval
More bracelet (SS) and dial (PM) options


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[Stan Cooper]

The 16710 with easily interchangeable anodized aluminum bezel inserts and Jubilee/Oyster bracelets is much more versatile than the current 126710 models. Also, IMHO the slightly smaller 16710 case is more comfortable on my wrist, but I realize this is personal preference.

[mturnerb]

Originally Posted by Stan Cooper

The 16710 with easily interchangeable anodized aluminum bezel inserts and Jubilee/Oyster bracelets is much more versatile than the current 126710 models. Also, IMHO the slightly smaller 16710 case is more comfortable on my wrist, but I realize this is personal preference.

I'm seriously considering this option as well - actually owned a Pepsi GMT 16750 back in the 90s and foolishly sold it. Wish I had left it in a drawer instead.

[georgekart]

Originally Posted by mturnerb

I am trying to understand the differences between the current (those with 3285 movement) and prior (those with 3185, ceramic bezel) GMT Master II, other than the movements.

First of all, ceramic GMTs used 3186 movement, not 3185. 3185 was only used in pre ceramic GMTs. But if we're comparing ceramic GMTs against each other, honestly it's basically just the movement and the variants (Jubilee became available, more bezel options, etc). The cases are the same. Some will say the 126 has thinner lugs, I can't tell. They look the same to me.

[ArtNouveau]

Originally Posted by georgekart

The cases are the same. Some will say the 126 has thinner lugs, I can't tell. They look the same to me.

Folks measured the 11 and 12 series GMTs with calipers when the 12s came out and found no measurable differences yet the myth persists of “thinner lugs.”
I had both an 11 series BLNR and a 12 series BLRO at the same time and no difference.

I’m sure those threads are still here if anyone wants to search them out.

[JRell]

Originally Posted by ArtNouveau

Folks measured the 11 and 12 series GMTs with calipers when the 12s came out and found no measurable differences yet the myth persists of “thinner lugs.”
I had both an 11 series BLNR and a 12 series BLRO at the same time and no difference.

I’m sure those threads are still here if anyone wants to search them out.

There are videos showing the difference. The lugs are slimmer on the 126710. Why we still debate this is crazy. Just visually look how slimmer the bracelet looks on the 116710.

Go to 8:40 in this video.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1tuz-sFTkHY

Go to 1:50 in this video.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FIpDuFsZWM4

[mturnerb]

Thanks for all the responses. Very helpful.