We’re here at Baselworld 2013 and Rolex has shown off a couple of new model iterations including a platinum Rolex Daytona and this black and blue colored Rolex GMT-Master II. Essentially just a new color variation of the current Rolex GMT-Master II range, this new version employs a two color cerachrom bezel insert (a first for Rolex) in a day/night arrangement of blue and black.

Still sized to 40mm and powered by the Rolex Calibre 3186, this new model is little more than an additional color choice for buyers looking for some of that classic Pam Am panache. Rolex announcements are a big deal at the BaselWorld and crowds formed quickly when the new models were displayed outside of Rolex’s booth. Onlookers seemed to have mixed feelings about the mostly-cosmetic updates and the lack of a specific 50th anniversary piece for the legendary Rolex Daytona.

Alongside the black and blue Rolex GMT-Master II is a new blue and brown platinum Rolex Daytona. This is not the Rolex Daytona that many were expecting. Also still 40mm, this new version features a case and bracelet made of 950 platinum along with a light blue dial and brown cerachrom bezel. New colors and metals aside, the platinum Rolex Daytona (ref 116505) is powered by the Calibre 4130 COSC automatic chronograph movement with 72 hours of power reserve. This new version comes on the year of the Rolex Daytona’s 50th birthday and while the color combo is interesting, many were expecting a brand new model with an updated case size. While it is totally possible that Rolex is still planning to celebrate the Rolex Daytona’s 50th with an official model, it doesn’t look as though Basel will be the host for that announcement. Now that Rolex is the official sponsor for Formula One, they may have a more race-focused and Rolex Daytona-appropriate stage for such news, only time will tell. For now, it is safe to say that while the new platinum 2013 Dayonta may prove to be a successful model, many BaselWorld attendees were expecting something completely different.

While the new variations of both the Rolex Daytona and the Rolex GMT-Master II are undoubtedly cool pieces, neither are brand new models, nor do they differ greatly from the current formula for each model range. I rather like the blue and black Rolex GMT-Master II and think that it is a nice addition the Rolex GMT-Master II family. What do you think of these new versions? Maybe Rolex has something else up its sleeve. rolex.com