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Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 B+P

The GMT-Master was originally developed in the mid-1950s at the request of Pan American Airways, who needed a reliable tool watch for their pilots flying across multiple time zones. Rolex answered with the GMT-Master Ref. 6542, followed a few years later by the now-iconic Ref. 1675, introduced in 1959.

This example from 1960 is an exceptional early GMT-Master. It features a stunning gilt tropical dial  the glossy black surface has aged into rich, warm brown tones. The watch retains its original Pepsi bezel insert, now with a gentle, even fade that reflects its decades of history.

What makes this piece stand out even further is the complete set. It comes with its original box and papers, plus a rare Rolex Service booklet from the Rolex Service Centre in Bexley, Kent  “At Your Service.” Having such an early GMT-Master in this condition, with this paperwork, is extraordinarily uncommon and adds significant historical charm.

For collectors who appreciate both provenance and patina, this 1960 GMT-Master 1675 with tropical gilt dial is truly a top-tier example  a rare opportunity to own a cornerstone of Rolex’s tool-watch heritage.

Year

1960
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€ 42.500

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Brand Rolex
Movement Automatic
Model GMT Master
Diameter 40 mm
Reference 1675
Bracelet/strap: Steel
Year of production (circa) 1960
Lug Width 20 mm
Material Steel
Set Content Original box & papers
Crystal Acrylic
Warranty 2 year (AWCo)
Dial color Black

The Rolex GMT Master was developed on request by Pan-Am airways in 1954. It was the age of air travel and for the first time in history, it became common practice to routinely cross timezones. Pan-Am requested a watch for its crews, that would allow for easy referencing of the time while doing so. Rolex obliged with an adapted Turn-o-graph Ref. 6202. It got a different bezel and a fourth 24-hour hand. It was labeled GMT Master Ref. 6542.

Rolex fitted the GMT Master with a bakelite bezel insert, displaying 24 hours. A, now iconic, color-scheme of blue for the night and red for the day was introduced. The Pepsi Rolex was born. Since bakelite was prone to breaking, an aluminum bezel insert was introduced in 1956.

The Ref. 6542 had a relatively short production period of five years, before being replaced by the fan-favorite Ref. 1675 in 1959. The updated model was equipped with crown-guards and a hacking movement. It is the archetypal Rolex GMT Master we all know and love. It has been produced in a variety of colors, in steel, gold and two-tone variants and with different bracelet options.

In 1981, the Ref 16750 was introduced, which came with a quickset date and a higher water resistance of 100 meters over the Ref. 1675’s 50 meters. It was accompanied by the Ref. 16760 in 1983, also known as the GMT Master II. For the first time, the fourth hand could be individually set, upping the number of trackable timezones from two to three. The two versions coexisted for about five years. The Ref. 16760 featured a sapphire crystal and a slightly thicker case, earning it the nicknames “Fat Lady” and “Sophia Loren”.

The late 80’s and 90’s saw a few more updates to both the GMT Master and the GMT Master II. In 2005, the ceramic GMT Master II (the six-digit references) was launched, putting us firmly into modern GMT territory.

The GMT Master is still a watch that exudes adventure. It is all about globetrotting in style. It is both rugged and elegant, a tool and a piece of jewelry. You can opt for that iconic blue & red look, or go for an almost-Submariner-like black version. And as with all Rolex, there are loads of rare and exotic versions to be found.

At AWCo we put the safety of our shipments upfront at all times. Therefore, we ship all our packages insured.

We strive to promptly handle packages to minimize delays. Delivery times begin from the day of dispatch. While we make every effort to ensure smooth delivery, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by destination customs, local duties, taxes, or lost items during transit.

Certainly, we understand that overloaded mail-order companies can also contribute to potential delays in the delivery process. Despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control may affect shipping times. Rest assured, we remain committed to providing timely service and will work diligently to ensure your order reaches you as promptly as possible. For any inquiries or updates, feel free to reach out to us at info@awco.nl. Your satisfaction is our priority.