Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 - 'MK5B' 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 50s for their fleet of pilots who needed access to different time zones.
The watch 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 is a 'MK5B' variant from circa 1978 and it comes to us in excellent overall condition. The Oyster case remains unpolished, retaining thick and symmetrical proportions and even the factory chamfers. The dial inside is also exceptional — seemingly flawless — with a clean matte surface, attractive patinated Tritium plots, and a professionally color-matched handset which presents beautifully. It comes fitted to a correct Oyster bracelet with a signed blade clasp.
And then, of course, there is that gorgeous 'Pepsi' bezel insert. It shows only light wear throughout and retains it's rich blue color red colors.
All things considered, this is a strong and attractive example of an always sought-after Reference.
Condition Report & Details
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