Penelope Andrews
Head of Department
Lot 16
Rolex. A fine and rare 18K gold, ruby, sapphire and diamond set automatic calendar bracelet watch with dual time indication GMT-Master II, Ref: 116748SARU, Purchased 30th December 2006
11 December 2025, 14:30 GMT
London, New Bond Street£35,000 - £45,000
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Jonathan Darracott
Global Head
Charles Dower
Head of sale, Knightsbridge
Sarah Fergusson
Senior Specialist
George Kidwell
Senior Cataloguer
Edith Chong
Cataloguer
Joselyn Sizer
Sale Coordinator
Rolex. A fine and rare 18K gold, ruby, sapphire and diamond set automatic calendar bracelet watch with dual time indication
Model: GMT-Master II
Reference: 116748SARU
Date: Purchased 30th December 2006
Movement: 31-jewel Cal.3186 automatic, adjusted to 5 positions & temperature, No.31299684
Dial: Black, applied luminous dot hour markers, white outer minute divisions, magnified date aperture at 3, gilt Mercedes hands with luminous inserts, arrow tipped dual time hand
Case: Brushed and polished tonneau form, screw down back, bezel set with 18 rubies, 18 sapphires and 23 diamonds, No.Z384555
Strap/Bracelet: Brushed and polished Oyster link
Buckle/Clasp: Signed folding clasp, stamped OP8
Signed: Case, dial & movement
Size: 40mm
Accompaniments: Rolex box, outer card, punched Guarantee, two spare links, brochures
Reference: 116748SARU
Date: Purchased 30th December 2006
Movement: 31-jewel Cal.3186 automatic, adjusted to 5 positions & temperature, No.31299684
Dial: Black, applied luminous dot hour markers, white outer minute divisions, magnified date aperture at 3, gilt Mercedes hands with luminous inserts, arrow tipped dual time hand
Case: Brushed and polished tonneau form, screw down back, bezel set with 18 rubies, 18 sapphires and 23 diamonds, No.Z384555
Strap/Bracelet: Brushed and polished Oyster link
Buckle/Clasp: Signed folding clasp, stamped OP8
Signed: Case, dial & movement
Size: 40mm
Accompaniments: Rolex box, outer card, punched Guarantee, two spare links, brochures
Footnotes
The GMT-Master has been a staple of the Rolex line up for over 70 years, being continuously available since its launch in 1955. Instantly recognisable for the two-tone bezel that features on most iterations, it is an example of Rolex's purpose-driven design ethos, alongside others including the Submariner and Yacht-Master.
The reference 116748SARU is a pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship, introduced in the mid-2010s and produced in limited quantities, making it a rare and highly coveted collector's piece. Crafted in 18K yellow gold, this 40mm timepiece features the iconic Oyster case, housing the Rolex Calibre 3186 automatic movement which operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers dual time zone functionality in 12-hour and 24-hour formats. Its distinctive SARU bezel, adorned with 18 trapeze-cut rubies, 18 trapeze-cut sapphires, and 23 diamonds, including a triangular-cut diamond at 12 o'clock, showcases Rolex's precision "invisible setting" technique for flawless symmetry.
The 116748SARU was an 'off catalogue' Rolex meaning it was only made available to clients by invitation or on request. Blending technical excellence with unparalleled elegance and world class gem-setting, it embodies Rolex's legacy of innovation and prestige.