Two Rolex fan favorites, the GMT-Master II and Cosmograph Daytona models offer different functionalities but a similar aesthetic when paired with black dials. The stainless steel GMT-Master II with black bezel shown below (Reference # 116710LN) is a classic professional model that finds its origins in the age of aviation while the white gold Cosmograph Daytona (Reference # 116509) represents the spirit of race car drivers that set land speed records on the sands of Daytona Beach, Florida, half a century ago. Whether traveling by land or by sea, either of these models would make a great companion for anyone looking for the reliability and legacy of a Rolex.

While there is a significant price jump from a stainless steel GMT-Master II to a white gold Daytona, seeing them next to one another shows the slight difference in color between the two materials. The white gold Daytona has a slightly warmer tone than the stainless steel GMT, which has a cooler tone closer to a silver in color. The other notable difference between the two is their functionalities. The GMT-Master II allows the wearer to keep the time of two different locations on one watch, while the Daytona allows the wearer to keep time and pace with a chronograph function. 

White Gold Cosmograph Daytona atop the Stainless Steel Rolex GMT-Master II

The photo above shows the Daytona case atop the GMT-Master II case. Both cases measure 40 millimeters in diameter, but the Daytona case has a slimmer profile. They both feature Oyster bracelets with polished center links, Oysterlock clasps and 5 millimeter Easylink extensions. They are both waterproof to a depth of 100 meters thanks to their Oyster cases and Triplock winding crowns. The GMT-Master II has a date function, with an aperture at 3 o'clock and a Cyclops magnifying lens. The Daytona does not feature a date function, with chronograph sub-dials taking up most of the space on its dial. The hours on the Daytona are marked with arabic numerals in 18 karat white gold appliqués while the GMT features geometric Chromalight appliqués. 

Stainless Steel Rolex GMT-Master II (Left) and White Gold Cosmograph Daytona (Right)

The Cosmograph Daytona model is powered by a 4130 self-winding mechanical movement manufactured completely in-house by Rolex. It has a power reserve of 72 hours and a tachymetric scale printed on the smooth white gold bezel to allow the wearer to measure their pace during laps around the race track. With a 48 hour power reserve, the GMT-Master II features a bidirectional 24 hour bezel that allows the wearer to set the 24-hour hand to GMT time and move the bezel back and forth to switch between timezones around the globe.

Both of these professional Rolex models offer useful complications for everyday life with black and stainless steel/white gold configurations that are far more popular these days than traditional yellow gold configurations. The choice between the two will likely come down to pricing, material and functionality. The red details on the display of the Daytona giving it a sexy look while the clean and clear GMT display make it highly legible. Regardless of which you choose, they both represent Rolex's professional collection very well and will look great your wrist. 

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