The Rolex GMT-Master II Ref 126711CHNR, affectionately known as the "Root Beer," enjoys a legendary status among watch enthusiasts. Its rich history, punctuated by periods of absence and highly anticipated returns, contributes significantly to its allure. This review focuses specifically on the 2018 iteration, examining its design, features, and place within the broader context of the Root Beer lineage, touching upon related models and current market values.
The 2018 Resurrection: A Modern Classic
The Root Beer GMT disappeared from the Rolex catalogue for quite some time, leaving collectors yearning for its distinctive brown and gold aesthetic. Then, in 2018, it made a triumphant return, albeit with some subtle but significant updates. The unveiling was met with immediate excitement, solidifying its place as one of the most sought-after Rolex sports watches. This wasn't just a re-release; it was a refined evolution of a classic design.
The 2018 Root Beer (Ref. 126711CHNR) boasts a 40mm Oyster case, perfectly sized for most wrists. The polished and brushed surfaces create a sophisticated interplay of light and shadow, highlighting the watch's elegant contours. The iconic bidirectional rotatable bezel, a hallmark of the GMT-Master II line, features a brown and black Cerachrom insert, flawlessly graduated to represent the 24-hour scale. This ceramic insert is highly scratch-resistant and retains its vibrant color over time, a significant improvement over earlier aluminum bezels prone to fading.
The dial, a rich chocolate brown, provides a stunning backdrop for the contrasting gold hands and hour markers. These applied indices are filled with Chromalight luminescence, providing excellent legibility in low-light conditions. The date window at 3 o'clock is subtly integrated, maintaining the overall clean and balanced aesthetic. The heart of the watch is the caliber 3285, a self-winding mechanical movement boasting impressive accuracy and a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. This movement represents Rolex's commitment to innovation and precision, showcasing their advanced watchmaking capabilities. The movement is also equipped with Rolex's patented Chronergy escapement, contributing to its enhanced performance and reliability.
A Look Back: Rolex GMT Root Beer Vintage
Understanding the 2018 Root Beer requires acknowledging its heritage. The original "Root Beer" GMT-Master references, primarily the 1675 and 16750, produced in the 1970s and 80s, are highly sought-after collector's items. These vintage models often exhibit signs of wear commensurate with their age, adding to their charm and desirability. The patina on the dials and bezels, the subtle imperfections, all contribute to the unique character of these watches. These vintage Root Beers are often considered by many to be the purest representation of the model's design philosophy, showcasing a simpler, more understated elegance compared to their modern counterparts. The differences in materials, particularly the aluminum bezel inserts, are notable and contribute significantly to the vintage aesthetic. Finding a well-preserved vintage Root Beer is a challenge, and they command significant premiums on the secondary market.
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