Introduction
Introduced in the mid-1950s, in collaboration with Pan American World Airways, the Rolex GMT-Master was developed to meet the growing demands of international air travel. As commercial aviation expanded and pilots increasingly crossed multiple time zones, Rolex created a wristwatch capable of simultaneously displaying local time and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the international aviation standard of the era. Its distinctive fourth hand, coupled with the now-iconic rotating 24-hour bezel, quickly established the GMT-Master as the definitive pilot's watch. While its origins lay in the cockpit, the reference soon found favour far beyond aviation, becoming one of Rolex's most enduring and recognisable sports watches.
Produced from 1959 until 1980, the reference 1675 is widely regarded as the quintessential vintage GMT-Master, evolving through numerous dial and handset variations that today form one of the richest areas of Rolex scholarship. Dating to 1967, this example features the highly desirable glossy gilt dial and, more significantly, the rare small 24-hour hand found only on the earliest configurations before Rolex adopted the larger arrow-tipped hand. Together, these details place the watch among the earliest and most sought-after executions of the reference.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Boxes, papers, chronometer papers, card, booklet, wallet and service paperwork
Est. value range
$20,000 – $30,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
GMT-Master
Movement
Automatic Rolex calibre 1570
Reference
1675
Bracelet
Stainless Steel rivet-link Oyster bracelet
Year
1967
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Boxes, papers, chronometer papers, card, booklet, wallet and service paperwork
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
The glossy gilt open chapter ring dial perfectly captures the character of Rolex's early sports watches, with gilt printing contrasting beautifully against the deep black lacquered surface. Completing the configuration is the exceptionally rare small 24-hour hand, one of the defining characteristics sought by knowledgeable collectors.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 40mm Oyster case established the template for generations of GMT-Master references, balancing robust construction with elegant proportions. Its bidirectional 24-hour bezel, fitted with the iconic red and blue "Pepsi" insert, which has faded to a punchy purple hue on the red half.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows light surface marks and evidence of a previous polish. The bezel remains well defined and is fitted with a very clean colour-change insert. The glossy gilt dial has a mirror like surface, and is in near-mint condition, while the hands show some discoloration to the luminous material. It is fitted with a riveted Oyster bracelet showing light surface marks and light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 12 links and fits approximately a 7¾” wrist. Comes with the inner and outer boxes, guarantee papers, chronometer papers, card, booklet, wallet and service paperwork.
Our Perspective
Among vintage GMT-Masters, early gilt-dial reference 1675s occupy a particularly important place, and the presence of the correct small 24-hour hand elevates this example into an even more desirable category. Combined with its attractive gilt dial, iconic Pepsi bezel and accompanying Rolex service papers, it offers collectors a compelling blend of rarity, historical significance and documented provenance. For many enthusiasts, this is the reference that defines the golden era of the Rolex GMT-Master.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
