Rolex’s legendary Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master marks its 70th anniversary this year, a testament to the watch’s enduring status as a symbol of precision, innovation, and prestige. Though Rolex is known for its meticulous pace in releasing new models, each one enjoys a lasting legacy—none more so than the GMT-Master, which has remained a cornerstone of the brand’s collection since its inception in 1955.
To commemorate this milestone, an exclusive exhibition titled “Time Zone to Time Zone” will run from May 26 to June 8 at Freespace in the West Kowloon Cultural District, inviting visitors to delve into the rich history and evolution of this iconic timepiece. Originally created to meet the demands of the burgeoning jet age, the GMT-Master introduced a groundbreaking dual time zone function with its distinctive two-color 24-hour bezel and an extra hour hand, enabling pilots and travelers to simultaneously track home and local time.
The exhibition offers an immersive experience for both avid Rolex collectors and casual enthusiasts, featuring key developments in the GMT-Master and its successor, the GMT-Master II. Attendees will encounter a curated collection of vintage models preserved by Rolex’s Heritage Department, showcasing the watch’s technical advances—from the original Plexiglas bezel to contemporary ceramic versions, and from the early calibre 1036 movement to the current calibre 3285. These innovations reflect not only the evolution of the GMT-Master but also broader advancements in horological precision and durability.
A landmark update arrived in 1982 with the launch of the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II, which introduced an independently adjustable hour hand. This feature revolutionized usability, allowing travelers to reset local time without interrupting the watch’s operation—further solidifying the model’s reputation as the quintessential tool watch. Additional craftsmanship highlights include the enhanced luminescent Chromalight display unveiled in 2021 and the return of the elegant Jubilee bracelet in 2018.
The exhibition also pays tribute to the famous figures who have favored the GMT-Master, spotlighting personalities such as Brad Pitt, Che Guevara, Pablo Picasso, Clint Eastwood, Mel Gibson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Hunter S. Thompson, and Sylvester Stallone. Their connections to the watch are illustrated through thematic panels and a short documentary, underscoring the GMT-Master’s cultural impact beyond its functional origins.
“Time Zone to Time Zone” is open from May 26 to June 8 at Freespace, Art Park, West Kowloon Cultural District. Admission is free with registration.
