About the Rolex GMT-Master II 126711CHNR
The GMT-Master II line was originally developed in partnership with Pan American World Airways to allow pilots and crew to track two time zones simultaneously, and it has evolved into one of the most recognizable luxury sport watches in the world. The reference 126711 represents the current-generation two-tone GMT-Master II, combining Oystersteel with Rolex's proprietary Everose gold alloy, an 18 kt rose gold formula engineered to resist fading and maintain its warm hue over decades of wear. The defining visual element is the bi-color Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert in black and brown, a combination rooted in the original "Root Beer" colorway of the steel and yellow gold GMT-Masters from earlier eras, now rendered in virtually scratch-proof ceramic. With its 40 mm case, independently adjustable 24-hour GMT hand, and Rolex's in-house movement, the 126711CHNR sits at the intersection of professional utility and luxury design.
What to Look For
When shopping for a 126711CHNR, buyers should confirm whether the example is fitted on a Jubilee bracelet or an Oysterflex bracelet, as both configurations exist within the 126711 reference family and each carries different collector appeal and market value. Dial and bezel condition are the primary value drivers on this reference given the striking contrast of the black dial against the brown and black ceramic bezel, so scrutinizing bezel insert integrity and dial surface for refinishing is essential before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 126711CHNR and the older GMT-Master II Root Beer references?
The 126711CHNR is the current-generation Root Beer GMT-Master II, featuring a Cerachrom ceramic bi-color bezel insert in black and brown, which is far more scratch-resistant than the aluminum inserts used on earlier references like the 16713. It also uses Rolex's modern in-house movement and is available with both the five-link Jubilee bracelet and the Oysterflex bracelet, options that were not available on earlier Root Beer generations.
Is the 126711CHNR made of solid gold or is it two-tone?
The 126711CHNR is a two-tone watch, pairing an Oystersteel case body with 18 kt Everose gold elements including the bezel, crown, and alternating Jubilee bracelet links on bracelet models. Everose gold is Rolex's proprietary rose gold alloy, formulated to be more durable and fade-resistant than standard 18 kt rose gold.
Why does the reference sometimes appear as 126711CHNR and sometimes as 126711CHNR1?
The suffix digit, such as the '1' in 126711CHNR1, typically denotes a bracelet or configuration variant within Rolex's internal reference coding, often distinguishing between bracelet types or minor production updates. Both designations refer to the same core 126711 Root Beer model in steel and Everose gold with a black dial, and buyers should verify the specific bracelet and box and papers status with the seller regardless of the exact suffix shown.
Browse also: Rolex collection · GMT watches.
Buy, trade, or sell. Contact Bizak & Co. for pricing and availability on any reference in this collection.
