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
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$7,000 – $10,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
GMT-Master
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
1675
Bracelet
Fabric strap
Year
1971
Condition
Very good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Featuring a stunning matte black Mk. 1 dial, this example features tritium luminous across its hour markers and hands that have aged to include a deep and rich creamy patina that has almost become a shade of orange. Additionally, the "ROLEX' inscription at 12 o'clock includes the infamous "Long E" that this dial is known for.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Boasting a faded shade of blue and red, this example's "Pepsi" bezel gives this timepiece a wonderfully subtle pop of color that perfectly complements its stainless steel construction, black dial, and yellow 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 very good condition. The steel case shows surface scratches and more noticeable nicks, along with signs of a previous polish, while the case back displays surface scratches. The bezel remains well defined, with a faded insert showing scratches and areas of degradation. The Mk1 “Long E” dial remains excellent, with some discoloration visible to the lume at six o’clock. The crystal shows some surface marks. It is fitted with a grey NATO-style nylon strap.
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.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
