Introduction
Introduced in the 1950s in collaboration with Pan American Airways, the Rolex GMT-Master was developed as a professional tool watch for international pilots navigating multiple time zones during the rapid expansion of commercial air travel. By the 1970s, the model had evolved into one of Rolex’s most recognizable sports watches, combining practical GMT functionality with increasingly luxurious materials and distinctive color schemes. The ref. 1675 represents one of the longest-running and most celebrated references within the GMT-Master lineage, produced across numerous dial and bezel variations over several decades. This two-tone steel and yellow gold configuration, commonly nicknamed the “Root Beer,” became particularly iconic for its warm brown and gold aesthetic, with some collectors also associating the model with actor Clint Eastwood, who famously wore similar examples during the period. Today, the “Root Beer” GMT-Master remains one of the most charismatic and collectible vintage Rolex sports watches from the era.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
GMT-Master
Movement
Automatic Rolex movement
Reference
1675
Bracelet
Rolex Oyster bracelet ref. 7836 with 258 end links dated 4/72
Year
1976
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel and yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Brown nipple dial
THE DIAL
The dial features applied yellow gold “nipple” hour markers, a defining characteristic of precious metal and two-tone Rolex sports watches from the period. Combined with the warm brown tones of the bezel and gilt accents throughout the display, the dial gives the watch its unmistakable “Root Beer” aesthetic and highly distinctive vintage character.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 40mm Oyster case combines stainless steel and yellow gold in Rolex’s signature Rolesor construction, balancing professional tool-watch functionality with a more luxurious sporting appearance. Paired with the bidirectional 24-hour bezel, the watch perfectly captures the bold and highly recognizable design language of 1970s GMT-Master references.
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 retains a very good profile, with surface scratches and small nicks as expected of a watch of this vintage. The case back shows surface scratches and marks. The bezel is excellent, with a clean root beer insert showing only a couple of light marks. The gold crown remains very well defined. The dial is near mint, while the hands show light oxidation. The crystal has surface scuffs. It is fitted with a folded-link steel and yellow gold Oyster bracelet showing surface scuffs and light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 12 links and fits approximately a 7¾” wrist.
Our Perspective
With its warm brown-and-gold color palette and unmistakable vintage charm, the “Root Beer” GMT-Master remains one of the most charismatic and stylish executions of Rolex’s legendary travel watch.
Patrick Parrish
Collector
