Rolex GMT-Master 1675

Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 - Tropical '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 comes from the very end of the gilt-dial era dating to circa 1965. The case remains unpolished — with thick lugs and crown-guards, visible factory chamfers, and shows normal signs of wear throughout. The dial inside is even more compelling and completely stunning... The correct 'Type C' gilt unit has aged over the years to a deep brown color, most noticeably when exposed to natural sunlight. The resulting 'tropical' patina is as captivating as it is unique. Additionally, it is also in beautifully preserved condition, largely devoid of major damage or crazing on the glossy surface. The Tritium plots are evenly patinated and the handset with the correct 'small' GMT hand match beautifully. This piece comes fitted with a correct 'stretch-rivet' Oyster bracelet with a blade clasp. And then, of course, there is that gorgeous 'Pepsi' bezel insert. The blue and red colors remain rich in color and exhibit a light fade throughout, and shows only light signs of wear. All things considered, this is a fantastic and compelling example of a late gilt piece, with a unique patina that elevates it to a very special wearing experience indeed. Movement: Automatic-winding chronometer certified caliber by Rolex. Bracelet/Strap: Rolex C+I 'stretch-rivet' Oyster bracelet with 12 links and signed blade clasp stamped '7-64.' Lightly previously polished and shows light signs of wear throughout with virtually no stretch and tight links. Sized for ≈7.75" wrist.