Watch Paparazzi

Explorer Olivier de Kersauson spotted wearing Rolex

Photographed in a characteristically contemplative pose, French maritime explorer Olivier de Kersauson is wearing a Rolex GMT-Master II in the classic two-tone stainless steel and 18k yellow gold configuration, most consistent with reference 16713. The black-bezel variant sits cleanly on his wrist alongside a sailing jacket bearing regatta insignia — entirely in keeping with his identity as one of France's most decorated ocean racers.

The ref. 16713 was produced from approximately 1988 to 2007, making it one of the longer-running references in the GMT-Master II lineage. It houses the calibre 3185, a 28,800 vph automatic movement with a Glucydur balance wheel, Parachrom hairspring (in later versions), and a date display paired with an independently settable 24-hour hand — the defining complication of the GMT-Master line. The 40mm case features the characteristic tonneau profile, with a unidirectional 24-hour graduated bezel in matte black allowing tracking of a second time zone at a glance. The two-tone Jubilee or Oyster bracelet — here appearing to be Oyster — blends polished yellow gold centre links with brushed steel outer links.

Among collectors, the ref. 16713 occupies a confident middle ground: it lacks the rarity of early tritium-dial examples or the modern prestige of the ceramic-bezeled ref. 126713GRNR, but it remains highly sought for its classical proportions, mechanical reliability, and the sheer breadth of dial and bracelet variations produced during its long run. The 'black bezel' variant, sometimes dubbed the 'Batman's predecessor,' is generally considered the most versatile and wearable of the series.

Olivier de Kersauson is no ordinary watch wearer. The three-time Jules Verne Trophy competitor and holder of multiple round-the-world sailing records has spent more time in extreme maritime conditions than almost any living Frenchman. A GMT complication is not an affectation for him — tracking multiple time zones across ocean passages is operational necessity. The 16713's water resistance to 100 metres and Oysterlock clasp make it genuinely fit for offshore use.

On the current grey market, the ref. 16713 in stainless steel and yellow gold with black bezel and black dial trades comfortably between $12,000 and $16,000 USD depending on condition, box, and papers. Its original retail price was in the $8,000–$10,000 range during its production run. Values have remained stable, supported by strong demand for pre-ceramic GMT references.