The Rolex GMT-Master’s fascinating history began with Pan American Airways’ collaboration with Rolex to develop a watch that would allow their pilots to simultaneously keep track of time in two time zones. Reference 1675 was introduced in 1960 as the successor to the reference 6542 – the first GMT-Master launched in 1955. The reference 1675 introduced crown guards and a bezel with a metallic insert that was more robust than the 6542’s bakelite bezel, notorious for its fragility even today among the collecting community.

The present example displays many of the desirable traits of an early iteration of the reference 1675 GMT-Master: a small arrow tipped 24-hour hand, glossy lacquer dial, and gilt printing. Most notably, the dial is preserved in spectacular condition, without any kind of mark or scratch, and it aged evenly to a very subtle off-black/anthracite hue. The luminous material followed suit, gaining an immensely attractive light camel hue. The case retains strong proportions, while the lug bevels are defined but slightly rounded due to wear. Remarkably, the bezel remains vibrant adding to the overall appeal of the wristwatch.

This lovely GMT-Master from 1966 is a shining example of this highly sought after vintage model. While the GMT-Master is a functional dual time zone “tool” wristwatch, it is the epitome of 20th-century masculinity and durability.