This wonderfully charismatic representative of the reference 6542 stands out with its breathtaking condition and beauty. It is, to the best of our knowledge, the best-preserved and most complete 18-karat gold known in the collecting community.

Launched in 1954, the iconic Rolex GMT Master was designed as an aviator’s watch. With the introduction of jet engine technology and the rise of the “jet-set”, flight distances increased beginning in the 1940s, creating a need for pilots and travelers to keep track of multiple time zones simultaneously. Recognizing this need, Rolex worked with Pan Am Airlines to develop an ingeniously simple solution leveraging the design of the ref. 6202 Turn-O-Graph Rolex introduced in 1953, and the GMT Master was born. It was immediately recognizable with its bright Bakelite bezel insert with luminous 24-hour numerals printed within. A newly introduced fourth hand, together with the 24-hour markings on the bezel, permitted the instantaneous indication of time in a second time zone.

Most were cased in stainless steel, with very few examples of the first generation ref. 6542 models produced in gold. Due to their rarity, fragility, and beauty, those retaining their original Bakelite bezels are highly sought after.

One of the most notable features of the present lot is its unrestored, fully intact cognac brown-colored Bakelite bezel. It is fitted with an absolutely stunning light brass-colored dial that could easily be interpreted as having aged to a “tropical” color, but it is actually the original color it was born with when it left the Rolex factory nearly 60 years ago. The case is completely original and unpolished, retaining perfectly preserved bevels, crisp edges, and factory brushed and polished surfaces. The original, expandable Oyster bracelet hardly shows any signs of wear, and is secured with the coveted “Big Rolex” logo folding buckle that is also highly coveted by collectors.

Completing the exceptional nature of this watch is the fact that it is accompanied by its original box and its full set of original paperwork, including the Rolex Guarantee, Chronometer Bulletin, and product literature – all correct and written in German.

Having the present example offered here is, without a doubt, a collector’s best opportunity to acquire a legendary watch that has survived the passing of time with so little signs of age. Currently, the present watch holds the record for the highest price ever realized at auction for a GMT Master – further highlighting the importance of this piece, and making it the ultimate trophy for collectors of rare Rolex sports watches.