Rolex GMT-Master

For sale is a Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16700 from the U-series (manufactured in 1998) in very good condition, featuring a rare “Swiss Only” dial and a faded Pepsi serif bezel.

Watch & Design
The Rolex GMT-Master 16700 is the last single-line GMT-Master reference and embodies the classic tool watch aesthetic of the 1990s.

A special highlight of this example is the rare “Swiss Only” dial. These were only used for a very brief transitional period in the late 1990s, when tritium was replaced by Super-Luminova. During this phase, the dials feature only the “SWISS” inscription at 6 o’clock—without the “T” or “SWISS MADE.”

This transitional variant was produced for only a short time and is correspondingly rare. Combined with the U-Series (1998), it results in an absolutely harmonious and collectible configuration.

The fitted Pepsi bezel with serif font displays a beautiful, even faded patina and is in very well-maintained condition overall.

Case & Strap
The case is in very good condition, with sharp edges and a clearly visible, clean finish on the lugs. The overall shape is very well preserved.

The Oyster bracelet, reference 78790, with the correct 501B end links, shows slight stretch, which is absolutely within normal limits for its age, and currently fits a wrist circumference of approximately 18.5 cm.

The clasp code U11 (November 1998) matches the U-series perfectly and confirms the period-correct combination.

Movement & Mechanics
Inside, the Rolex Caliber 3175 is at work, known for its reliability and robustness.

The watch exhibits very good timekeeping accuracy of approximately +5 seconds per day with a beat rate of around 285 beats per hour.

Additionally, the case has been tested for water resistance to 10 bar, further underscoring its excellent technical condition.

Authenticity
The watch has been verified both through the Rolex system and in The Watch Register database—with no issues found in either.