Introduction
Introduced in 1980, the Rolex GMT-Master reference 16750 marked one of the most significant technical evolutions in the history of the GMT-Master. While outwardly retaining the familiar appearance of its predecessor, the legendary reference 1675, it introduced the new calibre 3075 with a quickset date function, a higher beat rate and an increase in water resistance to 100 metres. Produced for less than a decade, the 16750 occupies a fascinating transitional position within the GMT-Master lineage, combining the vintage charm of an acrylic crystal with the improved performance of a more modern movement.
Accompanying paperwork tells the fascinating story of this particular example's life. Although originally produced in 1982, the watch returned to Rolex for servicing on maybe multiple occasions, where it received a factory replacement case bearing one of Rolex's distinctive 4.4 million serial numbers reserved exclusively for service cases, along with a Rolex service dial, matching Luminova hands, a service bezel insert and Jubilee bracelet. Far from detracting from its appeal, these official factory updates illustrate exactly what Rolex intended its professional watches to be: robust precision instruments designed to be maintained, repaired and returned to service for generation after generation. Few brands have built their reputation on longevity quite like Rolex, and this watch stands as a testament to the enduring nature of the company's legendary sports watches.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and service paperwork
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
GMT-Master
Movement
Automatic Rolex calibre 3075
Reference
16750
Bracelet
Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
Year
1982
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Box and papers
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
This example is fitted with a Rolex Luminova service dial, identifiable by its "SWISS" signature, together with matching service hands. Paired with the black bezel insert, the result is a clean, highly legible and distinctly modern appearance.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 40mm Oyster case retains the classic proportions that made the GMT-Master an icon, while the black aluminium bezel insert offers a more restrained aesthetic than the traditional bi-colour variants. Combined with its acrylic crystal, it perfectly bridges vintage charm and modern practicality.
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 service case shows surface scratches and light nicks, with signs of a previous polish. The bezel remains well defined, while the later service insert is very clean. The dial and hands are in near-mint condition and are also later replacements. It is fitted with a solid-link later Jubilee bracelet showing surface marks, scratches, and moderate play between the links. Comes with the inner and outer boxes, calendar card, various service papers, document holder, and two hangtags.
Our Perspective
Every vintage Rolex tells a story, but few illustrate the brand's philosophy as clearly as this example. Rather than remaining untouched in a safe, this GMT-Master returned to Rolex throughout its life to receive official factory servicing, emerging with a replacement service case, dial, hands and bezel insert that ensured it remained ready for decades of continued use. It is a reminder that Rolex never intended its professional watches to be museum pieces, they were built to accompany their owners for a lifetime, and maintained to do so.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
