Rolex

The Rolex GMT can trace its history back to the mid 1950s when Pam Am Airlines turned to the storied watchmaker about a timepiece pilots can use on long-haul flights to track multiple time zones. When the GMT-Master was first unveiled by Rolex in 1954 with the Reference 6542, it revolutionized watchmaking design and history by solving a complicated problem with a simple solution. By adding a fourth hand that made one full rotation every 24 hours and a rotating bezel that featured a 24-hour scale, the wearer can easily and quickly track two different time zones.

The original Reference 6542 were fitted with bezels with Bakelite inserts split into two colors: red and blue, which over the decades have become an instantaneously recognizable icon and was nicknamed the ‘Pepsi’ by collectors.

The Bakelite bezels proved too fragile for a tool watch and were replaced with a studier, aluminum insert bezel in 1959 with the launch of the Reference 1675, like our present timepiece.  

The Reference 1675 is one of the most iconic References in Rolex’s history, and boasts the longest production run of any Reference in the brand’s history. Offered in a variety of material combinations, the 1675 was produced in stainless steel, two tone steel and yellow gold, or full solid gold.

Our present timepiece is one such example that was crafted in solid yellow gold and fitted with a Rolex President bracelet. The most luxurious iteration of the 1675, it features a solid black colored bezel, the black and gold color combination a timeless classic. In wonderfully preserved condition, the engravings and assay marks on the case back are clear and crisp. The luminous plots on the dial are intact and have aged to an even, cream color. 

Inspired by the spirit of aviation and travel, the GMT-Master Reference 1675 is the reliable companion to any modern traveler.