| Brand | Rolex |
|---|---|
| Model | |
| Reference | 1675 |
| Year of production (circa) | 1966 |
| Material | Steel |
| Crystal | Acrylic |
| Dial color | Black |
| Movement | Automatic |
| Diameter | 40 mm |
| Bracelet/strap: | Steel |
| Buckle/clasp | Original steel folding clasp |
| Lug Width | 20 mm |
| Set Content | Watch only |
A-Rolex
Rolex GMT-master ‘Gilt’ Ref. 1675
A once-in-a-lifetime watch.
The GMT-Master was designed at the request of Pan-American Airlines. “Pan-Am” was looking for a reliable watch that could display two time zones, an indispensable feature for airline personnel. Rolex made a modified version of the Submariner with a modified movement (for the extra hour hand) and a new bezel: the GMT-Master reference 6542 was born. At the end of 1959, the 6542 was replicated by 1675. These still shared many of the similarities of the original, such as the 50m water resistance, the matte dials and the date without quick-set.
However, this specific 1675 from 1966 features an enchanting glossy gilt dial and the original riveted oyster bracelet, which makes a watch collector’s heart beat faster. The colour tritium index is faded like vanilla cake and matches the hands. In 1963 Rolex changed from using radium to tritium, this is the tritium dial.
Experience this watch at Reestraat 3 Amsterdam.
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Details
Backstory
Shipping
Brand
Rolex
Diameter
40 mm
Model
GMT Master
Bracelet/strap:
Steel
Reference
1675
Buckle/clasp
Original steel folding clasp
Year of production (circa)
1966
Lug Width
20 mm
Material
Steel
Set Content
Watch only
Crystal
Acrylic
Warranty
2 year (AWCo)
Dial color
Black
Movement
Automatic
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.