The first GMT-Master, reference 6542, was launched in 1954 and was initially fitted with a acrylic or bakelite bezel insert. Pan Am, then the world’s largest airline commissioned Rolex to design a watch to allow their pilots to keep track of time in two locations. Rolex introduced a 24-hour hand allowing its wearer, in conjunction with the calibrated revolving bezel, to swiftly calculate home and local time. The bakelite bezel was chosen to reduce the reflection and not disturb the pilots during flight. The present watch is an appealing example of Rolex’s reference 6542. Preserved in attractive original condition, it features this much sought-after bakelite bezel. The watch is stamped III.59 on the inside of the case back, indicating production of the watch in the third quarter of 1959. The true value however of the present watch is the wonderfully preserved original black lacquer dial with gilt printing. The numerals and hands have aged consistently and present the beholder with a very warm orange hue.