Lot #4680
Rolex GMT-Master 1675 Gilt Dial Small 24 Hr Hand with Service Papers
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Introduction
Released in 1954, the Rolex GMT-Master resulted from a collaboration between now-extinct airline Pan Am and Rolex on a watch that would display the time across two time zones at once. Thanks to the popularisation of commercial air travel, planes were becoming more advanced and traveling longer distances. This resulted in pilots crossing time zones during flights more frequently, and thus a need for uniformity across the aviation industry was highlighted. To eliminate errors caused by time confusion, the industry adopted a standard time-zone, Greenwich Mean Time. As such, the GMT-Master's fourth hand, its 2nd hour hand, was used to constantly display Greenwich Mean Time, as its model name implies, while its regular hour hand displayed local time. While the aviation industry's standard time-zone switched to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) in 1972, the name of the legendary GMT-Master was far too long in use for Rolex to change it. Today, the GMT-Master has become one of Rolex's most iconic models, with very few pilot's watches, if any, rivaling its level of fame, popularity, or signature design – and it certainly looks like it will stay that way.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Previous Service Paperwork and Box
Est. value range
$15,000 – $25,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
GMT-Master
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
1675
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1965
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch and service papers
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Featuring a stunning glossy black dial, this example sports gorgeous gilt inscriptions alongside tritium luminous across its hour markers and hands that have aged to include a beautifully unique deep orange patina. Additionally, this example features a small 24hr hand, which is a rarity for the ref. 1675 and was only available on the Mk. 0 and Mk. 0.5 variants.
THE CONSTRUCTION
With a punchy blue and bright red, this example's "Pepsi" bezel gives this timepiece a wonderful burst of color that perfectly complements its stainless steel construction, black dial, and orange lume.
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 surface scratches and signs of a previous polish, while the case back displays surface scratches. The steel bezel remains well defined, and the insert shows attractive natural fading with a couple of light surface scratches. The dial remains excellent with a glossy finish and warm patina to the hour markers. Luminous is intact with light wear on the tops. It is fitted with a steel rivet-link Oyster bracelet showing light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 12 links and fits approximately a 7¼” wrist. Comes with Rolex service papers from 2007, service box and associated paperwork.
Our Perspective
Famed as the quintessential Rolex GMT-Master, the ref. 1675 has grown into one of the most iconic timepieces in watchmaking with its stunning aesthetic, signature bezel, and deep history. Combining its orange lume with its correct small 24hr hand and gilt inscriptions, this example is full of vintage appeal.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
