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1988 Rolex GMT-Master II 16713 "Root Beer" - Two-Tone Brown Dial

Details
A Distinctive Take On The Jet Set Classic
The "Root Beer" GMT has always been the connoisseur's choice. While the Pepsi and Coke bezels are iconic, the warm, earthy tones of the Root Beer configuration offer a completely different presence on the wrist. This reference 16713, introduced in the late 1980s, is part of the second generation of the GMT-Master II. It features the critical upgrade of a sapphire crystal and a movement with an independently adjustable hour hand, transforming it from a simple dual-time watch into a true traveler's instrument. The combination of steel, yellow gold, and brown is a hallmark of its era, yet it feels more relevant today than ever.
The Neo-Vintage Sweet Spot
This 1988 example sits perfectly in the neo-vintage period, offering the best of both worlds. It has the classic proportions and charm of vintage models, including a bezel insert that will age gracefully, but with the robust reliability of a modern Rolex. The brown dial works perfectly with the gold elements, creating a look that is less about pure utility and more about sophisticated travel. It is a watch that makes a statement without being loud, appreciated by those who recognize its unique place in the GMT-Master lineage.
A Well-Preserved Example From 1988
This example is in very good condition. The case retains strong, defined lines, and the brown dial is clean. The two-tone "Root Beer" bezel insert is well-preserved, showcasing the distinct brown and gold hues that give the watch its name. Its two-tone bracelet shows some stretch consistent with its age, but it remains structurally sound and wears comfortably. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Most Interesting GMT In The Room
This is for the person who wants the functionality of a GMT-Master but prefers a look that stands apart from the crowd. The warm tones of the Root Beer are exceptionally versatile, pairing as easily with a leather jacket as they do with a suit. It is a confident choice that signals a deeper appreciation for the Rolex catalog beyond the most obvious references. This watch works because it is different, carrying an air of understated cool that has only improved with age.
Key Specs
Reference: 16713
Model: GMT-Master II "Root Beer"
Year: 1988
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 40mm (Excluding Crown)
Bezel: "Root Beer" Insert
Bracelet: Two-Tone
Bracelet Length: Fits up to 7.25in
Dial: Brown
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold & Stainless Steel