The Rolex GMT-Master was an ingenious innovation which epitomizes the golden age of air travel. The present lot was purchased by its original owner from a now defunct retailer called “King Ngai Jewellery & Watch Co.” in Nathan Road, Hong Kong in the late-1970s, when Hong Kong's economy was vigorously accelerating amidst increased capital flows, commercial opportunities and business investment. With the economic boom, more and more Hong Kongers were able to travel the world, and for them a robust and reliable dual-time wristwatch was by all means essential.

Imaginably, the original owner wore the piece with extra care as the watch was preserved in excellent condition. The two-tone “Pepsi” bezel has aged beautifully into the wondrous hues of azure and light crimson, bestowing a unique aura onto the watch. The watch was accompanied with a punched Rolex guarantee, green leather box and hang tags. Most impressively, the original invoice dated in 1978 was also retained. Intriguingly, the original owner made a partial payment of $1,500 when he acquired the watch, with $420 to be paid later.