Preview: Rolex GMT-Master II 116710 is one to watch in Lichfield auction

Sale date Monday 16th February

THIS Rolex GMT-Master II marks a pivotal moment in the history of this iconic watch.

Catalogued as Lot 497 in Richard Winterton Auctioneers' Antiques & Home Sale on Monday, February 16, let's discover more about this desirable timepiece.

Launched in 2007 and discontinued in 2018, the reference 116710 introduced a scratch-resistant fade-proof Cerachrom ceramic bezel and the 'super case', with broader lugs and crown guards beefing up the 40mm 904L Oystersteel stainless steel case.

The all-black aesthetic of this GMT-Master II 116710 LN (Lunette Noire) is highlighted by a pop of Rolex green on the triangular arrow-tipped 24-hour hand and the model name on the dial script.

Introduced as an upgrade to reference 16710, the watch is powered by the COSC-certified 3186 calibre, an automatic movement with Parachrom hairspring for improved shock and magnetic resistance.

Water resistance is 100 metres and there is a 48-hour power reserve.

The black ceramic dial – with blue Chromalight luminescence for the dot and baton markers and Mercedes hands – is protected by a sapphire crystal sporting the signature cyclops lens above the three o'clock date apperture.

Two or even three time zones can be tracked by using the GMT hand and 24-hour bidirectional rotating bezel.

The watch is fitted with a Rolex stainless steel Oysterlink bracelet numbered 78200 with polished centre links and a signed folding clasp.

Two spare links are included along with swing tags, sale and service documents, booklets, Rolex watch pouch, and inner and outer boxes.

View in person at The Lichfield Auction Centre, Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, between 10am and 4pm on Friday, February 13.

The auction starts at 9am on Monday, February 16, with the jewellery and watches section commencing at 10.30am.

For more information, to arrange a free valuation of all types of timepieces, jewellery, collectables and antiques or to enquire about a home visit for large collections or house clearances, email office@richardwinterton.co.uk or call 01543 251081.

Free valuations of all types of watches, jewellery, gold and silver also take place at The Auction Café in Lichfield on Tuesdays between 9.30am and 3pm, with an extra date on Wednesdays February 25 and March 25, again from 9.30am and 3pm, creating a special double jewellery and watches valuation at the end of the month.