Rolex

Launched in 1955, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master was developed to be a navigation tool watch with dual time zones at the request of aviation behemoth Pan Am. The reference 6542 was the first GMT-Master model released and featured a bakelite rotatable bezel insert that was red and blue, allowing transatlantic pilots to easily distinguish between night and day at home. The bakelite bezel also illustrated luminous numbers, to allow easy legibility even in low light conditions. It was however, caused the reference 6542 to have a short-lived production period of only 4 years as concerns were raised due to the bezel’s radioactivity. To solve this Rolex replaced bakelite with aluminum in 1959 and offered free replacements to clients with original bezels.

The current lot presents a reference 6542 GMT-Master featuring the original bakelite bezel from the collection of legendary musician and streetwear pioneer Hiroshi Fujiwara. A rarity in itself, additionally seen on the beautifully aged dial is a Tiffany & Co. signature, one of the first examples of a double stamped dial despite the long-lived collaboration between the two brands. A physical piece of horological history, this extraordinary timepiece embodies the stylish spirit of Fujiwara, making it a perfect opportunity not-to-be-missed.