Will Rolex Introduce a GMT-Master II 'Coke' at Baselworld 2017?

.Rolex Models.
2017 Rolex GMT-Master II 'Coke' Concept Design
With Baselworld 2017 coming up this month, predictions have been swirling on the Internet, leading many enthusiasts to discuss what model updates they want to see from Rolex. Among the most talked about rumors is the addition of a GMT-Master II configuration with a black and red Cerachrom bezel, a combination known as 'Coke' by fans of the brand.

I took to Photoshop to create a visual of the configuration based on the current GMT-Master II models. Most of the comment and forum threads suggest that a stainless steel version is the most desired. It will be interesting to see if Rolex grants their wish, as many surmise that adding another stainless steel configuration will cannibalize sales of their current BLNR model. Right now they offer the GMT2 in stainless steel with either a black bezel or the 'Batman' bezel, a combination of blue and black.

The GMT-Master II BLRO is available in white gold, know as the 'Pepsi' for the bezel's semblance to the soda company's logo. Rolex could just as easily add a white gold 'Coke' to the mix, which would be less of a threat to the BLNR based on the price point of the precious metal configurations. Looking at the current collection of Daytona models suggests that the watchmaker is more likely to offer several options on precious metal configurations while limiting the variety of stainless steel models.

The 2017 Rolex models will not hit Authorized Dealers until the summer, but we will receive confirmation on which configurations they will introduce in only a few weeks. I offered my opinion on what I would like to see from the watchmaker in a previous post. My material choices may be ambitious based on Rolex's reticence to introduce new configurations based on current trends, but you never know. This may be the year that Rolex goes out on a limb. It has happened in decades past, after all.

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Will Rolex's Oysterflex Bracelet Make a Splash at Baselworld 2017?

.Tech.
Introduced in 2015 on the Yacht-Master 40 model, the Oysterflex bracelet offers the comfort and unique style of an elastomer strap with the technical innovation that Rolex is known for. As I mentioned in my post about my Rolex Baselworld 2017 predictions, it is speculated that this bracelet will be featured on more configurations than it is now. The question that remains is if it will be featured only on the Yacht-Master 40 or if they will also release an Oysterflex configuration for for another model. 
Rolex Oysterflex Bracelet (photo: Rolex/Thomas Hensinger)
Developed and patented by Rolex, the Oysterflex has a metal blade made from a flexible titanium and nickel alloy at its core that attaches the clasp to the case. The blade is then enveloped with a black elastomer that is both durable and resistant to environmental effects. It is equipped with a longitudinal cushion system to stabilize the watch on the wrist. The photo above shows the bracelet with a rose gold Oysterlock safety clasp as it appears on the Everose gold Yacht-Master 40 model. 

If the watchmaker does add the Oysterflex to additional configurations, I believe it will keep its black color but maybe appear on white gold or stainless steel models in addition to the Everose YM. If they do go ahead and add it to another model, my prediction would be that they would add it to the Sea-Dweller 4000 as 2017 represents an anniversary year for the model, something Rolex likes to commemorate with its latest innovations. For more information on the 2016 Yacht-Master 40 model that features the Oysterflex, check out my post here. To check out all of Rolex's bracelet options, check out my post here. 

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