Marking a bold evolution of its iconic travel timepiece, Rolex unveils a striking new Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II that flaunts the very first ceramic dial in its storied history.

This groundbreaking innovation debuts on a white gold version featuring the crown on the left and a repositioned date window at 9 o’clock, creating a bold statement piece that combines heritage with cutting-edge watchmaking.

The vibrant green Cerachrom dial highlights Rolex’s mastery of ceramic innovation. Since 2005, the Swiss manufacturer has blazed the trail in harnessing its proprietary Cerachrom in watchmaking. The high-tech ceramic material is prized for its exceptional scratch resistance, vivid fade-proof colours, and robust resilience against corrosion and environmental wear.

For this model, the Cerachrom dial is crafted using the same technique as Rolex’s natural stone dials, in which a ceramic disc is mounted onto a brass plate. What sets this creation apart is the perfect colour match between the dial and the lower daytime half of the black-and-green Cerachrom bezel. This chromatic harmony, consistent across all lighting conditions, speaks volumes of Rolex’s fastidious attention to detail.

Remaining faithful to the GMT-Master II’s origins as a professional tool for pilots and globetrotters, the bidirectional rotating bezel features a 24-hour scale that’s complemented by a triangle-tipped 24-hour hand for tracking a second time zone. Tied to the local time, the date function sits at 9 o’clock under Rolex’s signature Cyclops lens for enhanced legibility. White gold hour markers and hands are filled with Chromalight, which provides exceptional legibility in low light with its long-lasting blue luminescence.

Housed in a 40mm Oyster case, whose middle is crafted from a solid block of white gold, the new GMT-Master II retains the model’s signature balance of elegance and toughness. Waterproof to 100 metres, the case is also equipped with Rolex’s Triplock winding crown and a virtually scratchproof sapphire crystal. The two-tone bezel features recessed graduations coated with platinum via PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition), while its knurled edge ensures a secure grip for smooth operation.

Powering the timepiece is the Rolex Manufacture calibre 3285, a self-winding movement. First introduced in 2018, it incorporates the patented Chronergy escapement – made from magnetic field-resistant nickel-phosphorus – for improved energy efficiency and reliability. The blue Parachrom hairspring ensures superior resistance to shocks and temperature fluctuations, while patented high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers further bolster durability. With a generous power reserve of 70 hours, the movement boasts the Superlative Chronometer certification, offering an accuracy of −2/+2 seconds per day.

Completing the timepiece is a white gold Rolex Oyster bracelet with a three-piece link design that dates back to the late 1930s. Polished centre links flanked by satin-finished outer links add refinement, while patented ceramic inserts between the links enhance flexibility and long-term durability. The Oysterlock folding safety clasp guarantees a secure fit, and Rolex’s ingenious Easylink comfort extension link allows for an effortless 5mm (or half-link) adjustment. This enables wearers to seamlessly adapt to changes in wrist size during travel.

As global exploration continues to evolve, so too does the GMT-Master II. With its first ceramic dial, this timepiece signals a daring new chapter in Rolex’s ongoing legacy of innovation and remains a trusted companion for those who navigate the world with precision and purpose.

This story was first seen as part of the WOW #78 Vision 2025 Issue

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