Rolex introduced the now iconic GMT-Master dual time wristwatch in 1955, developed with Pan American Airlines for both pilots and the jet-set. By 1959, Rolex upgraded the model and introduced the new reference 1675, which now had crown guards to prevent damage to the crown, and the fragile Bakelite bezel insert was replaced with a more resilient metal insert. The gold version of reference 1675, however, would not feature crown guards for another few years, as seen on the present example.

The present lot stands out for its wonderful provenance. It was originally owned by Forrest Bird (1921-2015) an American aviator, inventor, and biomedical engineer. He is best known for the development of the first, reliable mass-produced mechanical respirator. So important were his contributions to science, he received the Presidential Citizens Medal from President George Bush in 2008, and in 2009, he was awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation by President Barrack Obama.

Forrest Bird’s name is documented on the two included Rolex service invoices, and the lot is accompanied by the original Rolex presentation box, and a photo album featuring Mr. Bird wearing the watch throughout his lifetime.

This early and extremely attractive yellow gold GMT-Master is a rare transitional model, featuring rare and early luminous leaf hands. The watch’s attractiveness is further enhanced by its vibrant grené dial with gold cup-shaped luminous hour markers referred to by collectors as “bicchierini”. A highly sought-after watch with a remarkable story behind it, the present GMT-Master is a handsome example that will certainly delight its next owner.