Developed during the golden age of commercial aviation, the Rolex GMT-Master has become one of the most recognisable watches in the history of the brand. Introduced in the mid-1950s following Rolex's collaboration with Pan American World Airways, the GMT-Master was conceived as a practical instrument for pilots navigating increasingly long international routes. Its distinctive 24-hour hand and rotating bezel allowed the wearer to track a second time zone, while the contrasting red and blue bezel insert provided an instantly legible indication of day and night. Introduced in 1959, the ref. 1675 would become one of the longest-running GMT-Master references, remaining in production until approximately 1980. Over those two decades, it underwent numerous subtle changes, from the evolution of its case and crown guards to the transition from glossy gilt dials to matte black examples during the second half of the 1960s.

Dating to 1966, this stainless steel ref. 1675 represents an important period in that transition, featuring an early MK1 matte black dial distinguished by the elongated middle stroke of the letter E in the ROLEX signature. Known among collectors as the Long E dial, this variation is associated with the earliest generation of matte-dial GMT-Masters and provides a fascinating insight into the small typographical details that distinguish vintage Rolex production. The watch retains the familiar 40mm Oyster case, automatic calibre 1570 and bidirectional 24-hour bezel, here fitted with a red and blue Pepsi insert that has faded to softer shades of pink and pale blue. Accompanied by a folded-link Oyster bracelet, this example brings together several of the details that have made the early matte-dial GMT-Master particularly appealing to vintage Rolex enthusiasts.

Watch is in overall good condition. The stainless steel case shows surface scratches and small marks, with signs of a previous polish and some softening to the case definition. The bezel edge shows gentle wear, while the red and blue insert has developed a pleasing fade. The matte dial exhibits surface degradation, with some damage to the printed text in places. Most of the luminous hour plots show some damage, particularly at 5 and 6 o’clock. Some of the minute markers exhibit staining, possibly resulting from moisture exposure at some point. The dial may be slightly later than the watch itself. The hands show surface marks, while the luminous material is missing from the 24-hour hand. The stainless steel folded-link Oyster bracelet shows scratches and surface marks, with significant play between the links and a mismatched clasp cover. The bracelet is fitted with 13 links and fits approximately an 8” wrist.

Please note: The watch ticks at time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.

The early matte-dial ref. 1675 occupies an important place in GMT-Master history, with its distinctive Long E signature marking a fascinating transitional period. This 1966 example offers the character of a vintage Pepsi GMT, especially with the faded bezel insert.