Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16750 'Pepsi' - Transitional Matte Dial
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.
This Reference 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. And eventually, the 1675 would evolve into the first 5-digit GMT-Master, The Ref. 16750 that we have here. These pieces, at a glance, retain the look and feel of a 1675, but now utilize a 'quickset' date function with the Calibre 3075 movement, and are typically broken down into two different variants, each with their own appeal. The early pieces feature matte black dials, whereas the second half of production introduced glossy black dials with the first applied Tritium-filled white gold indices.
The piece that we have here is the former, with a matte black dial. It dates to circa 1982 and comes to us in outstanding overall condition. The case is fantastic, showing only signs of the faintest previous polishing and only light wear throughout. The bezel and insert retains its vibrant blue and red colors and shows only the faintest signs of wear. Even the caseback sticker remains intact and shows some wear from use. Inside, the mate black dial is in seemingly-flawless condition, with evenly patinated Tritium plots and a perfectly matching handset.
Overlooked for many years, these early matte-dial 16750 carry over virtually everything that collectors love about its predecessor, but have that added functionality of a quickset date. And though not exceedingly rare, are certainly not common and can still be had for less than a 1675. Sound pretty good if you ask us!
Movement:
Automatic-winding chronometer certified caliber by Rolex.
Bracelet/Strap:
Rolex stainless steel Oyster Bracelet with 10 links and signed blade clasp stamped 'H'. Likely unpolished and shows matching honest wear with mild stretch. Sized for ≈7.5" wrist.
