The present example is a reference 1675 from 1968, with a case serial number in the 1.820.xxx range.
Its most distinctive feature is the bezel insert, known among collectors as a “fuchsia bezel”. Such inserts are most commonly associated with examples bearing serial numbers in the 1.8 to 1.9 million range (circa 1968–1969), with occasional earlier occurrences. This coloration likely results from the aging and degradation of one of the pigments used in the original red insert.
The watch is in excellent condition, with all components consistent with the period. The Oyster bracelet is the correct reference (7836 with 280 end links), although slightly later, dating to 1970.
The present example is a reference 1675 from 1968, with a case serial number in the 1.820.xxx range.
Its most distinctive feature is the bezel insert, known among collectors as a “fuchsia bezel”. Such inserts are most commonly associated with examples bearing serial numbers in the 1.8 to 1.9 million range (circa 1968–1969), with occasional earlier occurrences. This coloration likely results from the aging and degradation of one of the pigments used in the original red insert.
The watch is in excellent condition, with all components consistent with the period. The Oyster bracelet is the correct reference (7836 with 280 end links), although slightly later, dating to 1970.
The Rolex GMT-Master is simply one of the most iconic travel watches. It all started with a request from the Pan-Am airline for an innovative pilot’s watch: not just a readable pilot’s watch (there were many out there already), but one that was capable of displaying an extra time zone. Pan-Am inquired at Rolex, and they came up with the GMT-Master. The Rolex GMT-Master were not only popular amongst civil pilots: also NASA (like Jack Swigert of Apollo 13) and US Air Force pilots wore them, and over the years, people who travelled to different time zones for their jobs started logically wearing it.
In 1954, the first GMT-Master appeared with the reference 6542. It featured a bakelite bezel (replaced after two years by an aluminium one) and had no crown guards. The reference 6542 was in production till 1959.
Introduced in 1959, the reference 1675 is one of the most emblematic GMT-Master models, produced for over two decades, until 1980. It replaced the earlier 6542 and introduced crown guards, first pointed and later rounded. Powered by the caliber 1565 and later 1575, it retains the dual-time functionality with improved robustness. Over its long production, it saw numerous dial, bezel, hand and case variations, making it a cornerstone for collectors. Its enduring design, often associated with the red-and-blue “Pepsi” bezel, defines the classic GMT-Master aesthetic. It was also the first Rolex sports watch that became available on both the Oyster and Jubilee bracelets.
The story of Rolex began in London in 1905 when Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis founded Wilsdorf & Davis, a watch company that soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company. In 1919, Rolex moved its headquarters to Geneva. The brand’s success can be attributed to many “early” innovations, including the famous “Oyster” case in 1926 and the “Perpetual” self-winding movement for wristwatches in 1933. Among the most prestigious brand name in the world, Rolex has developed world-renowned collections such as the Oyster Perpetual, Datejust, Day-Date, as well as professional collections: Explorer, Submariner, GMT-Master, Daytona.
The purpose of this document is to determine whether the constituent parts of the watch are conform to the model reference /period or not, and to value their condition and importance.
All the watches are provided with a digital certificate (the Watchfid-ID), that will be uploaded on your protected and anonymous digital wallet.
This document presents each watch in the most objective and detailed manner possible, thanks to a substantiated analysis, high-resolution photos designed to highlight all elements of the watch and an innovative rating system. Available in printed and digital versions.
On request and when available, an extract of the archives from the manufacturer can be obtained.
Please fill out the form. We’ll be back to you shortly. Thank you.
