Side by side

Rolex GMT-Master IIvsGrand Seiko SBGJ259

The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.

What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Rolex GMT-Master II

Owners widely praise the Rolex GMT-Master II for its exceptional legibility, robust build, and comfortable bracelet taper, with many considering it the best stainless steel GMT ever made. Some find the two-tone variants a perfect balance between sports and dress, while others highlight the versatility of the "Batman" or the iconic status of the "Pepsi." The grey and black variant offers a more reserved aesthetic, and some owners view the all-black 116710LN as the best value buy. However, the bidirectional bezel's lack of satisfying clicks and the Oystersteel's proneness to scratching are noted drawbacks. Some owners find the green GMT hand and text difficult to see, and one owner considers it a downgrade from the Submariner due to its lack of quick-set date and lower water resistance. The Rolex GMT-Master II is difficult to obtain at retail, with wait times averaging 12-24 months.

From video reviewers

The 18k yellow gold construction is a notable strength. Reviewers did not reach a consensus on any weaknesses.

Grand Seiko SBGJ259

The Grand Seiko SBGJ259 "Urban Bamboo" is admired for its striking green dial, though one owner notes its color appears more yellow in person than in promotional photos. It is considered a dressier piece compared to other models. On balance, owners appreciate the Grand Seiko SBGJ259 for its unique dial color and dressy aesthetic.

At a glance

19 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
GMT-Master II40mm
SBGJ25940mm
Power Reserve
GMT-Master II70h
SBGJ25955h
Water Resistance
GMT-Master II100m
SBGJ259100m
MSRP
GMT-Master II$50,800
SBGJ259$7,700

Full specifications

Case

6 specs
Thickness
14mm
Lug-to-Lug
0mm
46.2mm
Lug Width
19mm
Material
18kt Gold
Stainless Steel
Finish
18 kt Everose gold
Caseback
Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

Crystal & Dial

5 specs
Crystal Shape
Flat
AR Coating
Yes
Dial Color
Black
Indices
Index
Lume
Chromalight
None

Movement

7 specs
Caliber
3285
9S86
Beat Rate
28,800 vph
0 vph
Power Reserve
70h
55h
Jewels
34
0
Hacking
Yes
No
Hand-winding
Yes
No
Complications
GMT, Date
None

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$50,800
$7,700
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