We must admit that, for us, the GMT-Master in all its variations is one of our favourite Rolex models of all time. In fact, we are even more fond of the older versions – but as the saying goes, there is no accounting for taste. It is no coincidence that this is one of the models with the greatest number of nicknames (as you know, many special Rolex models have nicknames by which they are known among collectors, and these have become so widely accepted that they are sometimes more popular than the official model names). Let us mention perhaps the most famous ones: Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Root Beer and, of course, among the more recent additions, Batman, as well as the fresh arrivals in the collection – the new Pepsi, Batman, Zombie and Sprite. Many of these models trade on the secondary market above their original prices, while even contemporary versions are often offered significantly above their official retail prices. “A marketing trick,” some sceptic might say, but in our opinion it is yet another demonstration of the brand's successful market strategy and price positioning.
The example offered today also belongs to the group of models with nicknames – in this particular case, we are talking about the “Zombie”, and the reason for this name probably lies in the mysterious colours used for its two-tone bezel – grey and black. In addition, this model features the Yellow Rolesor combination – the name Rolex uses for the combination of Oystersteel and 18-carat yellow gold in its watches. Introduced in 2023, this GMT-Master II is one of the most attractive contemporary representatives of the collection.
But why exactly is this model so desirable and sought after? One of the reasons is certainly its so-called “true GMT” movement – the in-house Calibre 3285, which allows the local hour hand to be adjusted independently in one-hour increments without stopping the movement. It offers an increased power reserve of 70 hours and a significantly improved automatic winding system, with the rotor mounted on a ball bearing. The Chronergy escapement offers approximately 15% greater efficiency, while the technologies and materials used contribute to the calibre's reliability and precision. The movement incorporates numerous patented solutions, including the paramagnetic Parachrom hairspring and the Paraflex shock protection system.
On top of all this, the watch is certified as a Superlative Chronometer – a Rolex standard guaranteeing an accuracy of −2/+2 seconds per day after the movement has been fitted into its case. This is a considerably stricter criterion than the official COSC requirements and makes Calibre 3285 one of the brand's most impressive modern movements.
We are sure that most Rolex enthusiasts know that the brand calls its water-resistant cases Oyster. In other words, whenever this name appears in the designation of a watch, it means that it offers a certain level of water resistance. And, of course, the GMT-Master II fully lives up to this designation – although unlike the Submariner, here the rating is “only” 100 metres, but as you can imagine, these metres are more than sufficient for the watch's intended purpose. The screw-down Triplock crown and solid caseback further reinforce the impression of a serious and reliable instrument.
The dial is very clean and easy to read, while the luminescence on the hands and hour markers makes the watch easy to use at night. The luminescence glows in a pleasant blue colour, while the Chromalight material used by Rolex allows the markers to appear milky white during the day. In this particular version, the black lacquered dial is complemented by hands and hour markers framed in 18-carat yellow gold, giving the model an even more distinguished appearance.
Despite the fact that the GMT-Master II is a professional instrument, as originally intended by the manufacturer when this family of watches was created, it is clear that for quite some time it has also become a luxury accessory – and for many years this role has arguably overshadowed the original purpose of its creation. Perhaps for this very reason, Rolex make many design decisions on this model so that its appearance and the overall impression it creates take precedence over pure functionality.
The first thing that catches the eye is the sapphire crystal – Rolex use a high-quality sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating and the characteristic “Cyclops” magnifying lens above the date window. Everything is executed with the precision and attention to detail typical of the brand, while the shine of the crystal and metal components further emphasises the watch's luxurious character.
For the caseback, Rolex use a conventional solid back, as they do on most of their classic models – and in this case, it is free of any markings, inscriptions or other “decorations”.
As we all know, Rolex use high-grade 904L steel for their watches, which the brand calls Oystersteel. The difference compared with the 316L commonly used by other brands lies in its greater corrosion resistance, particularly when exposed to salt water. In this particular case, the model belongs to the so-called two-tone versions, and in addition to steel, the other material used is 18-carat yellow gold. The bezel, crown and centre links of the bracelet are made from this precious metal, and Rolex refer to the combination of the two metals as Yellow Rolesor.
It is widely known that Rolex can be described as fanatics when it comes to the steel they use – a large part of the metallurgical processes is carried out in-house to guarantee consistent quality of the raw materials. Many watches have passed through our hands, but we can say with absolute confidence that few other brands devote so much attention and effort to the quality of the finished product in terms of case finishing – and the result is inevitably exceptional quality and presence.
The bracelet also deserves special attention – in this case, we have the classic five-link Jubilee bracelet, with outer links made of Oystersteel and centre links crafted from 18-carat yellow gold. The polished finish of the gold links adds an extra touch of elegance, while the Oysterlock clasp, with its safety mechanism and Easylink system, allows the bracelet to be extended by an additional 5 mm. The combination is exceptionally successful and makes this GMT-Master II one of the brand's most elegant sports models.
The overall impression is completed by the watch's 24-hour bezel – its purpose is clear: to allow the reading of an additional time zone. Rather straightforward, isn't it? On older models, the bezel insert was made of aluminium with printed hour markings, but in 2005 Rolex introduced a ceramic bezel on the GMT-Master II for the first time. In 2013, the first two-colour monobloc ceramic version appeared. The material is specially developed by the brand and differs from commonly used materials, which is why Rolex call it “Cerachrom”.
The bezel itself is divided into two sections – black for the dark hours of the day and grey for the daylight hours. These colours also give rise to the letters at the end of the reference, GRNR – from the French words gris (grey) and noir (black). And because of this colour combination, enthusiasts have nicknamed the model “Zombie”. Combined with the yellow gold, the result is truly impressive – restrained enough not to appear excessively flashy, yet distinctive enough to be recognised from a distance.
Indeed, back in the 1950s Rolex created a remarkable product and invested the following decades in improving and refining it. While initially appreciated by customers as a practical watch for travelling professionals, today it has largely become a luxury accessory that nevertheless possesses all the qualities needed to become a long-term companion to its owner.
Besides being exceptionally reliable, this watch belongs to a model family that has traditionally enjoyed strong demand and good value retention on the secondary market. Of course, future prices can never be guaranteed, but this particular model can confidently be ranked among the most attractive and popular Rolex references.
One of the reasons for this is certainly the fact that the watch looks equally good on your wrist whether you are wearing a formal suit or a pair of worn jeans and a white T-shirt – in both cases, the GMT-Master II “Zombie” will help attract admiring glances towards your appearance.
