Released in 1959, the Rolex GMT-Master ref. 1675 replaced the first model ref. 6542. With an upgraded design and enhanced robustness, it is fair to say that the ref. 1675 is arguably the most iconic reference from the GMT-Master line. Evolved and improved, various designs and technical upgrades were added to the mix like the replacement of a more durable aluminum bezel insert, added protection of crown guards, and the transition dial variations from glossy to matte dials. While early examples of the reference featured gilt dials, Rolex replaced them with matte dials in the mid-1960s. With that said, a total of 10 marks (including service marks) were witnessed throughout its production span until 1979.
The present example Rolex GMT-Master ref. 1675 with a 5.8 million serial from circa 1979 features a Mark IV dial identifiable via the perfect alignment of the right vertical of “M” in “Master” centered with “C” from Chronometer below. Well-preserved boasting a crisp case, clean bezel and a flawless dial, the present example will surely delight collectors of fine vintage timepieces.
Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.
One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.