Rolex GMT-Master Exhibition makes historic first landing in Hong Kong

An air of anticipation envelops Hong Kong as the city prepares to host a watchmaking milestone. Following its triumphant Geneva debut, the Rolex GMT-Master Exhibition: Time Zone to Time Zone lands at Freespace in West Kowloon Cultural District from May 26 to June 8. This prestigious event represents the exhibition’s first Asian appearance, transforming the vibrant cultural hub into a sanctuary celebrating horological excellence.

Since its 1955 introduction, the GMT-Master has elevated itself beyond mere timekeeping. Emerging during commercial aviation’s golden era, this revolutionary watch became essential for globetrotters exploring a world where continents suddenly became accessible within hours. Its ingenious dual-time zone functionality—featuring the signature 24-hour format display—elegantly solved the modern traveller’s dilemma of tracking multiple time zones as our perception of distance fundamentally changed.

GMT-Master, stainless steel, red and blue Plexiglas insert, 1955 (Photo: Courtesy of Rolex)

First GMT-Master II featuring a Cerachrom bezel insert in ceramic, 2005 (Photo: Courtesy of Rolex)

The exhibition chronicles the remarkable evolution of what Rolex aptly describes as “the ultimate cosmopolitan watch”—a timepiece that has graced the wrists of actors, explorers, artists and adventurers throughout its illustrious history. Instantly identifiable by its distinctive two-colour bezel, the GMT-Master has undergone thoughtful refinement while preserving its quintessential character—embodying Rolex’s unwavering commitment to perpetual innovation and timeless design.

Roger Federer, former tennis player with a GMT-Master II in Oystersteel on his wrist, featuring a bezel with a grey and black Cerachrom insert. (Photo: Courtesy of Rolex)

Tiger Woods, golf champion with a yellow Rolesor version of the GMT-Master II fitted with a Cerachrom bezel insert in black ceramic (Photo: Courtesy of Rolex)

Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II in a cockpit, 2005 (Photo: Courtesy of Rolex)

Visitors will embark on a meticulously curated journey through thematic panels highlighting different aspects of the GMT-Master legacy. They will discover key milestones in its evolution, from material changes to the iconic bezel—first Plexiglas, then aluminium from 1959, and ceramic since 2005—to the 11 movement iterations, culminating in today’s calibre 3285. The exhibition showcases vintage timepieces preserved in Rolex’s Heritage Department, including early examples that defined aviation history.

The exhibition experience culminates in a captivating documentary film tracing the GMT-Master’s transformation from cockpit essential to cultural icon. Throughout the space, visitors will discover the compelling narratives of renowned figures who, with the GMT-Master adorning their wrist, shaped aviation’s golden age, alongside contemporary luminaries who continue to enhance its legendary status across diverse creative and professional domains.

The landmark event transforms Freespace in the West Kowloon Cultural District into a temple of timekeeping excellence from next month onwards (Photo: Courtesy of WKCDA)

General admission is free for the public with advanceonline registration. This landmark exhibition represents a genuine cannot-miss experience for anyone who appreciates the intersection of history, craftsmanship and global culture.