The iconic Rolex GMT-Master was designed as an aviator’s watch. With the introduction of jet engine technology and the rise of the ‘jet-set’, flight distances increased, creating a need for pilots and travelers to keep track of multiple time zones simultaneously. Recognizing this need, Rolex worked with Pan American Airlines to develop a tool watch for their pilots to keep track of time as they flew through multiple time zones. Launched as the reference 6542 in 1954, the original model featured a blue and red Bakelite bezel with luminous 24-hour indication. The present GMT-Master is exceptionally rare. Known as the “SARU” due to the sapphires and rubies used on its bezel, the precious gemstones pay tribute to the blue and red Bakelite bezels of the earliest GMT-Master models. Since the 1950s, all Rolex tool watches were manufactured in
steel followed by gold. The reference 16758 stands out as the first Rolex sports watch to be fitted with precious stones. Produced in a very small number, this Rolex reference 16758 GMTMaster from 1986 is one of only a handful of SARU examples to appear at auction to date. Its rarity is further enhanced by its exceptional, original condition, with perfectly sharp lines and crisp beveled edges as delivered from the factory. Amongst the rarest and most prestigious of all Rolex sports wristwatches, it's an exceptionally well-preserved trophy watch for the connoisseur.