The Rolex GMT-Master II, with its instantly recognizable bezel and distinctive hands, is more than just a luxury timepiece; it's a tool watch with a rich history and a fascinating functionality. Born from the needs of pioneering aviators, engineers, and international businessmen, the GMT-Master II, and specifically its iconic green hand, has transcended its utilitarian origins to become a coveted symbol of style and precision. This article delves into the purpose of the green hand on the Rolex GMT-Master II, exploring its function, its history, and its place within the broader context of the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II line.
The Genesis of the GMT-Master: A Tool for a Globalized World
Before understanding the specific role of the green hand, we need to appreciate the overall functionality of the GMT-Master II. Its predecessor, the original GMT-Master, was conceived in the 1950s in collaboration with Pan Am, the then-dominant international airline. Pilots needed a watch that could simultaneously display two different time zones, crucial for navigating complex flight schedules across continents. This need drove Rolex to create a watch capable of tracking both local time and a second, reference time zone – a capability that would ultimately prove invaluable far beyond the cockpit.
The original GMT-Master, with its characteristic bi-directional rotating bezel and 24-hour hand, laid the foundation for the sophisticated mechanism found in the modern GMT-Master II. While the early models featured simpler movements, the evolution culminated in the current generation, powered by robust and precise movements like the caliber 3186 (and later, the 3285), renowned for their accuracy and reliability. The watch's design – a robust Oyster case, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and a highly legible dial – reflects its intended purpose as a tool that could withstand the rigors of professional use. The black dial and bezel combination, while now classic, were originally chosen for their high contrast and readability, even in low-light conditions.
The Green Hand: A Second Time Zone at a Glance
The Rolex GMT-Master II's most distinctive feature, and the focus of this article, is its independent 24-hour hand, often referred to as the GMT hand. This hand, typically colored green (though variations exist), is crucial for tracking a second time zone. Unlike the hour and minute hands, which track local time, the GMT hand remains independent, allowing the wearer to set it to a reference time zone – usually their home time zone or another significant location.
This independent setting is achieved through the watch's unique movement. The GMT hand advances in 24-hour increments, completing a full rotation once every day. The bi-directional rotatable bezel, marked with 24-hour graduations, typically in contrasting colors (e.g., black and red), further enhances the watch's functionality. By aligning the bezel's 24-hour marker with the GMT hand, the wearer can easily read the time in the reference time zone, regardless of the current local time.
Come Funziona un GMT (e come si usa)?
The functionality of the GMT-Master II's GMT hand is deceptively simple yet incredibly powerful. Let's break down the process:
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