Rolex GMT-Master IIvsUlysse Nardin San Marco GMT ± Big Date
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Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

GMT-Master II

San Marco GMT ± Big Date
Diameter
40mm
40mm
Thickness
n/a
11.8mm
Water Resistance
100m
100m
Power Reserve
70h
highest
42h
MSRP
$53,100
n/a
Movement
3285
UN-22
Case
5 specsCrystal & Dial
4 specsMovement
7 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Rolex GMT-Master II for its exceptional finishing on the Oystersteel case and bracelet, the legibility of its dial with excellent lume, and the scratch-resistance of its ceramic bezel. Many owners find it a perfect balance between sport and dress, appreciating the GMT function for travel and citing specific configurations like the "Batman" (BLNR) and "Pepsi" (BLRO) as favorites for their versatility and color schemes. The Jubilee bracelet is frequently lauded as comfortable and fantastic, with some preferring it over the Oyster. However, some owners note the bidirectional bezel lacks satisfying clicks, and one reviewer found the green GMT hand and text difficult to read. The Rolex GMT-Master II is also noted for being difficult to acquire at retail, with long wait times for popular steel models.
The GMT-Master II "Root Beer" features a distinctive black and brown Cerachrom bezel and GMT complication. Reviewers did not agree on any weaknesses.
Owners widely praise the Ulysse Nardin San Marco GMT ± Big Date for its exceptional reliability and build quality, with one owner reporting twelve years of service comparable to Rolex and JLC. Reviewers and owners consistently highlight its superb accuracy, with figures as precise as ±1 second per day, and its practical GMT functionality for travelers. The watch's design is described as having just enough eccentricity to be interesting, featuring good legibility and great finishing, though some find its aesthetic dated. The 40mm case is noted to wear well, and the movement is praised for its in-house components and silicon parts. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Ulysse Nardin San Marco GMT ± Big Date highly for its enduring reliability and precise timekeeping.
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