Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 - 'Gilt' Dial Unpolished
The Rolex GMT-Master is one of the most historic and iconic watches the brand ever produced. Its origin dates back to a commission request by Pan American World Airways in the early 50’s for their fleet of pilots who needed access to different time zones.
These pieces would feature a similar design to another watch that Rolex was developing around that time, the Submariner, but would include a fourth hand running on 24-hr time, and a bi-colored bezel insert to represent AM/PM times. Those colors, naturally, would be the PanAm colors: Red & Blue. Thus, in 1953, the Ref. 6542 GMT-Master was born. These early pieces were ultimately, fragile arguably flawed in some ways, and were therefor succeeded by the updated Reference 1675 in 1959.
These pieces introduced a larger case size with crown-guards and a bi-colored blue + red bezel insert made of aluminum. The Ref. 1675 underwent many small changes over its 21-year production run, with a slew of dial, bezel, bracelet, and hand variations. You know, Rolex stuff.
The example that we have here from circa 1966 comes to us in fantastic overall condition. The case remains unpolished, with thick lugs and prominent factory chamfers and shows normal signs of wear. The correct 'Type C' black 'gilt' dial inside presents beautifully, with a rich glossy surface and light signs of aging. The Tritium plots exhibit a deep, almost pumpkin patina throughout and the handset with the correct 'small' GMT hand has been professionally color-matched. This piece comes fitted with its correct 'rivet' Oyster bracelet with a blade clasp, also in matching unpolished condition and showing matching normal wear.
And then, of course, there is that gorgeous 'Pepsi' bezel insert. The blue half shows an attractive gradient fade, while the red more of an even pale red fade. It shows wear consistent with that of the rest of the watch.
All things considered, this is a fantastic and compelling example of a late gilt piece, fit for any collection.
Condition Report & Details
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