Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 - 'Pepsi MK3 Radial'
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.
This specific example from circa 1978 features what is known as a 'MK3 Radial' dial. These dials feature inner-set Tritium plots, which in turn amplify the visual effect of the outer white minute hash marks, and are also are more legible! The dial here remains in outstanding, seemingly flawless condition with lightly patinated Tritium plots and a perfectly matching handset. The red & blue aluminum 'Pepsi' insert is rich in color and shows only faint wear with one blemish on the bezel assembly near the "2." The case has been freshly professionally refurbished and is gorgeous, with thick symmetrical lugs and crisp finishing throughout with only faint wear. It comes fitted to a correct solid-link Oyster bracelet with a signed blade clasp.
Perhaps the most recognizable variation within the 'matte dial' range of watches, these are also probably the rarest and, to some, more desirable. This outstanding example is sure to be an ongoing pleaser for its next owner for decades to come.
Condition Report & Details
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Every Oliver & Clarke timepiece comes with a one-year mechanical warranty starting from the date of delivery. We ensure all watches are in wonderful working condition and are ready for daily wear. Many have been fully serviced by our team of watchmakers.
Please note:
- Due to the vintage or antique nature of many of our watches, they may not keep time as accurately as when new, nor as precisely as quartz or electronic devices.
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- Internal or external damage caused by accidents, mishandling, abuse, modifications, or services performed by anyone other than our authorized personnel.
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