Service of the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 116710 powered by the Calibre 3186 Movement

Introduction

The Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 116710 is a “modern” classic, valued for its durability, precision, and dual-time functionality. Powered by the Rolex Calibre 3186 movement, this model combines robust engineering with a practical travel complication. Proper servicing of the GMT-Master II requires adherence to Rolex service standards to ensure reliable timekeeping, and long-term mechanical integrity. This page documents the professional service of a Rolex ref. 116710, with attention to both performance and preservation.

Service Procedure— Rolex Calibre 3186

Servicing the Rolex GMT-Master II with the Calibre 3186 involves a complete disassembly service. The movement is fully dismantled, jewels cleaned by hand, and all components agitation/ultrasonically cleaned to remove aged lubricants and contaminants. Key wear points—such as the automatic winding system are inspected.

The movement is reassembled and lubricants are applied using modern synthetic oils. The watch is regulated across multiple positions to achieve stable chronometric performance. The case and crown are inspected, and gaskets replaced to maintain practical water resistance appropriate for the watch’s condition. The case and bracelet were not polished at the owners request.

How to Initiate the Service of your Rolex GMT

If you would like to initiate the repair of your vintage timepiece contact me directly, or visit getting started.

For additional information on watches we work on please visit these pages: Vintage Rolex repair— Vintage Breitling repair —Vintage Omega repair — Vintage Heuer repair —Bulova Repair, and Pocket Watch Repair. See my FAQ for additional information, and visit Watch Repair Case Studies.

More on the Duel Time Function

The GMT-Master II dual-time function allows the watch to display two (and in some cases three) time zones simultaneously, but its operation can be confusing at first—especially for owners unfamiliar with Rolex’s jumping-hour system.

The watch uses a separately adjustable local hour hand, a 24-hour GMT hand, and a rotating 24-hour bezel. The local hour hand can be moved independently in one-hour increments without stopping the movement, which also advances or reverses the date as it passes midnight. The GMT hand continues to track a second time zone—typically home time—against the 24-hour scale. Rotating the bezel allows a third time zone to be read if desired. Because the crown has multiple positions and the hands move independently, it’s easy to misalign the hour, GMT hand, or date if the sequence isn’t followed correctly. With proper understanding, however, the system is extremely practical.

Brief History of the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 116710

Introduced in the mid-2000s, the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 116710 marked a significant evolution of the GMT line. It was the first GMT-Master II to feature Rolex’s Cerachrom ceramic bezel, offering superior resistance to scratching and fading. The Calibre 3186 movement, used in later examples of this reference, improved upon earlier GMT calibers by incorporating a more refined jumping-hour mechanism.

Originally developed for professional pilots, the GMT-Master line has become one of Rolex’s most recognizable and versatile tool watches.