1996 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16700 ‘Blue Mirage’ with Box and Papers

In 1988, Rolex introduced the GMT-Master Ref. 16700, intended to replace the outgoing 16750. This was the final chapter of the original GMT-Master lineage, running alongside the more advanced GMT-Master II (ref. 16710), which had just been released. While both models offered similar aesthetics, they were mechanically distinct: the 16700 used the Caliber 3175, which featured a quickset date but retained the non-independent hour hand—a throwback to its forebears. In contrast, the 16710, with its independent hour hand, marked the beginning of the GMT-Master II era.

 

Positioned as the more affordable of the two, the 16700 was available only with Pepsi or black bezel inserts, while the 16710 saw additional colorways like the famed Coke. And where the 16710 would continue production into the mid-2000s, the 16700 was quietly discontinued in 1999, making it the last true GMT-Master, closing the book on a historic line before the GMT-Master II fully took over.

 

With just over a decade of production and fewer variations, the ref. 16700 has become something of a hidden gem—a transitional reference that blends vintage soul with modern reliability. It carries the visual charm of earlier GMTs, the classic Pepsi colorway, and the cleaner lines of a pre-Super Case Rolex.

 

For collectors who appreciate the evolution of one of Rolex’s most iconic models, the 16700 stands at a fascinating crossroads—the final GMT-Master, and a quiet, confident farewell to the era that started it all.

The example offered for sale here is a Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16700 which dates to 1996.

 

But what makes this particular example stand out is its uniquely ethereal presence, earning it the nickname "Blue Mirage".

 

The glossy black dial is flawless, with hour markers that have aged into a soft, creamy patina, giving the watch a warm, inviting glow. The hands are perfectly matched, creating a seamless harmony across the dial.

 

The case is even, and it’s preserved in strong condition, remaining thick and with sharp bevels showing factory finishes still on it. It shows minimal wear signs. The case back is in the same condition.

 

Then there’s the bezel — originally jet black, now transformed into a beautifully even blue-gray hue. With bold, fat-font numerals and an almost mist-like softness to its fade, the insert brings a surreal contrast to the deep gloss of the dial. It’s a tone you rarely see: subtle, smoky, and full of character — like a mirage over a midnight desert or a fading sky over open ocean.

 

It comes suited on its original Rolex Oyster 78360 stainless steel solid-links bracelet with 501B end links and clasp code R6 that shows light wear and almost no stretch.

 

The watch is running great and keeping time, although service history is unknown.

 

The sapphire crystal is clean.

 

Adding to its desirability, the watch comes as a full set, including outer and inner boxes, hang tag, wallet, and stamped guarantee papers from its original sale in Kowloon, Hong Kong, in 1997.

 

A watch that feels like a time capsule from the end of the neo-vintage era — the Blue Mirage is both dreamy and sharp, with a presence that’s impossible to ignore.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request.