THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 1675
YEAR: 1968
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The GMT-Master is one of the most iconic watch designs in the world. Originally created for airline pilots, it now graces the wrists of collectors and enthusiasts alike. The reference 1675, first introduced in 1959, remained in production until 1980. Over its 20+ year run, Rolex introduced a series of changes to the 1675—including updates to the movement, case, dial (transitioning from gilt to matte), and bezel design—giving examples from different eras distinct personalities.

The present example features the most well-known matte production dial: the Mk1, often nicknamed the “Long E,” easily recognised by the extended middle bar in the letter E of “ROLEX.” This dial variant had a long production run and is typically found in watches with serials ranging from 1967 to early 1972. This particular piece comes from the very beginning of that range, with a 1.7m serial from 1968, and features the rare early variation with puffy zinc sulfide lume plots and hands, along with the thinner case profile. Rolex produced this specific configuration for only about a year before transitioning to tritium lume and thicker cases.

Aside from the 7836/280 folded link bracelet, which dates to 1980, the watch is entirely correct. The case appears to be unpolished; the lugs show signs of sleeve wear—caused by friction from long-term wear—giving them a slightly smoother, glossier appearance. This is consistent with other unpolished examples, where the finer original brushed finish and the factory bevels are still visible. The date wheel is also correct, featuring the characteristic hooked 7s and closed 6s and 9s.

The movement has been checked and is running well at +5 s/d, with 260 amplitude and a beat error of 0.3 ms. A fantastic example of one of the most wearable and iconic watches ever made.