The Rolex GMT-Master has long established itself as a purpose built sports watch. The reference 6542 was the first iteration of the product line and was originally made for pilots to keep track of “home” and “local” times. The reference 1675 was its successor, building on the model’s tool watch lineage, and offered in stainless steel, stainless steel and gold, and all gold models. The present example was one of the first sports watches to be offered in a solid gold case, catering to a new type of client who valued utilitarian design with prestige and class. A stylish alternative of the reference’s original “tool watch” roots, the 18K yellow gold case coupled with a suave brown bezel and dial is a reminder of the glitz and glamour air travel used to be known for.

The example presented is remarkable for its exceptional state of preservation. Still retaining its original caseback sticker and showing signs of hardly ever being worn, it offers more than just a gold case. Its beautifully aged brown bezel and nipple dial– now turning the color of a full-bodied red wine– applied Rolex coronet, and sparkling gold lettering give this model substantial depth to its beauty. The untouched case and matching luminous further enhance the watch’s appeal. The rich tones of the gold and brown, developed over decades, provide the wearer a glimpse into the golden era of travel. A handsome example, this GMT-Master ticks all the boxes for both the casual and serious collector with its distinguished gold case, beautiful dial, and outstanding condition. It will bring years of pleasure to its next owner.