2016 Australian Open (photo: Rolex/Gianni Ciaccia)

While some have speculated that Rolex will be introducing a new GMT-Master II configuration this year based on the model's prominence on their official website, it seems that the reasoning is tied to the Australian Open, not Baselworld 2017. The watchmaker has been a partner of the first Grand Slam tournament of the season for ten years and they honor the 2017 tournament with the GMT-Master II as a special selection.

In addition to being a partner to the tournament, Rolex is also tied to one of it's biggest stars and four-time champion, Roger Federer. The Swiss tennis legend refers to the Australian Open as the 'happy slam,' a sentiment shared by many due to the summer weather in Australia while the northern hemisphere deals with the cold of winter. Federer beat American Noah Rubin this week and will advance to the third round to face 10th seed Tomas Berdych.

Rolex GMT-Master II BLNR (photo: Rolex)

Their official website links the colors of the GMT-Master II to the Australian Open, something that is evident when looking at the photo of the tennis court above. Considering that sales of stainless steel wristwatches were much stronger than precious metal sales last year, it makes sense for them to push a configuration like the BLNR in the beginning of this calendar year. With Baselworld 2017 around the corner, it will be interesting to see if the GMT will continue to be featured prominently.

For more information on the Australian Open, including schedules and standings, visit ausopen.com. For more information on Rolex and their ties to the world of professional tennis, visit rolex.com.

>>BACK TO SPORTS