So, about a month ago, I got this idea in my head. I wanted to make a watch that looks just like the Rolex GMT-Master II with the “Root Beer” bezel. You know, the one with the brown and black? Yeah, that one. I just think it’s a cool, classic look.
First, I started looking into the history of this watch. I mean, who doesn’t love a good backstory, right? Turns out, the “Root Beer” nickname has been around for a while. People started calling some of the older GMT-Master models that because of the brown and gold color scheme. Fancy, huh? Apparently, Rolex isn’t known for putting itself out there, so this root beer bezel is really one of those rare instances when the brand decided to lean into the times and release something a bit offbeat and different. Rolex released a GMT Master II in root beer coloring, with the 16713 reference around 20 years ago, produced in both stainless steel and yellow gold. It was in production until 2006 when it was discontinued. I also learned that the “GMT” stands for Greenwich Mean Time, which is now called Coordinated Universal Time. This is helpful for when I want to adjust the time later.
But here’s the thing – these watches are expensive, and the waitlist is crazy long, like up to two years if you have a good relationship with the dealers and a long purchase history! So, I figured, why not try to make my own version? Challenge accepted!
I started by gathering all the parts I needed. It was like a treasure hunt, honestly. I found a watch case that looked similar to the real deal, got a movement to power the whole thing, and then came the tricky part – the bezel.
Finding a brown and black bezel insert that looked like the Rolex one was tough. I searched high and low, online and in some specialty watch part stores. It took weeks, but I finally found one that was pretty darn close.
- Bought a watch case similar to Rolex
- Acquired a reliable watch movement
- Sourced a brown and black bezel insert
- Ordered hands and a dial that fit the style
Once I had all the parts, it was time to put it all together. Now, I’m no watchmaker, but I’m pretty handy. So, I watched a bunch of videos online and got to work. Let me tell you, those tiny screws and watch hands are no joke! I used some specialized tools I bought, like tiny screwdrivers, tweezers, and a case back opener. It was fiddly work, but slowly but surely, the watch started to take shape.
After a few evenings of tinkering, I finally finished it! It was such a satisfying feeling to see my creation come to life. It’s not a perfect replica, of course, but it definitely captures the vibe of the Rolex GMT-Master II Root Beer.
The bezel and crystal are in perfect condition. The process was a lot of fun, and I learned a ton about watches along the way. I’m pretty proud of how it turned out, especially considering it’s my first attempt at something like this.
Would I do it again? Maybe! It was definitely a rewarding experience. Plus, now I have a unique watch that I made myself, and that’s pretty cool if you ask me!
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