The birth and evolution of a modern classic

THE Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II represents a legendary evolution in watchmaking, blending technical prowess with a timeless design. 

Introduced in 1982 as the successor to the original GMT-Master, it was developed to meet the demands of global travellers. 

Building on the 1955 launch of the GMT-Master, which featured a 24-hour hand and rotatable bezel to display two time zones simultaneously, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II took the concept further with a new movement that allowed the hour hand to be adjusted independently.

Over the decades, it has continually evolved, embracing innovations such as the introduction of a ceramic bezel in 2005. 

This material, known as Cerachrom, is celebrated for its durability and resistance to fading and scratching. 

Rolex has pushed the boundaries of engineering to create two-tone ceramic bezels, reflecting the model’s historical aesthetic while enhancing performance. 

In 2022, the watch was reimagined with the crown on the left side and a green-and-black Cerachrom bezel, showcasing the brand’s commitment to functionality and design.

Today, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II remains an icon, beloved by adventurers, pilots and world travellers alike, representing a perfect blend of heritage, precision and cutting-edge innovation.​

The watch’s evolution, timeless appeal and evolution are what make it a true modern classic. 

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A symphony of contrasts

Discover more when you turn the page. Enjoy the issue.

Editorial and Art

Supplement editor: Dylan Tan

Sub-editors: Vivien Ang, Ilyas Salim

Contributors: Chuang Peck Ming, Allyson Klass

Cover design: Simon Ang

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Martin Boey: boeyckm@sph.com.sg

Irene Tan: itan@sph.com.sg

Rachel Chin: rachchin@sph.com.sg

Kevin Tan: kevintan@sph.com.sg

Michelle Sim: michsim@sph.com.sg

Inside:

PART A

P2 - Rolex: A symphony of contrasts

P3 - Cartier: Icons revisited and reinvented

P4 - Tudor: A spirited and sporty salute

P6 - Omega: Legends get a makeover

P8 - Vacheron Constantin: Breathing new life into classics

P12 - Bvlgari: Tradition with a twist

P14 - A Lange & Sohne: The rule breaker

P16 - Tag Heuer: A masterclass in precision and quality

P18 - IWC: Back in black

PART B

P1 - Patek Phillipe: A bold step into the future

P6 - Blancpain: Material mastery

P8: Grand Seiko: Milestones and nature’s marvels

P10: Hermes: French finesse

P12 - Franck Muller: As bold as always

P14 - MB&F: Coming full circle

P15 - F P Journe: The big four

P16 - Ulysse Nardin: A new era of horological excellence

P17 - Urwerk: Timepieces from outer space

P18 - Tissot: Retro charm

P19 - Longines: Timeless elegance meets innovation