The history of this Rolex GMT-Master
With the GMT-Master, the House of Rolex presents an instrument originally designed for aviation professionals. Created in 1954 at the request of Pan American World Airways, this watch met an absolute technical need. The pilots travelled across multiple time zones and suffered from an unprecedented time difference. They needed to be able to read 2 time zones. The reference 1675 had the longest production run in the range. In the 1970s, Rolex gave this timepiece a statutory dimension by combining steel and yellow gold. This precise variation, featuring a black dial with raised indexes known as Nipple dials, marks the transition to a travel icon.
Case, calibre and strap of this GMT-Master
This model features a 40 mm stainless steel Oyster case topped by an 18-carat yellow gold bidirectional bezel. The black insert features a gold 24-hour scale for reading the 2nd time zone. The black lacquered dial is distinguished by its massive applied yellow gold hour-markers, typical of the Nipple configuration. Mercedes hands and a GMT hand with an exclusive triangle complete the architecture. An acrylic crystal incorporates the Cyclops magnifying glass, magnifying the date by 2.5 times. The movement is powered by the Manufacture Calibre 1575 automatic oscillating at 19800 vibrations per hour with a 48-hour power reserve. This chronometer-certified mechanism guarantees remarkable precision. The watch is mounted on its Oyster bracelet reference 78363 blending brushed steel and 18-carat yellow gold with folding clasp.
Why this Rolex watch
The appeal of this configuration lies in its pivotal position within the manufacture's archives. Finding a 1970s reference 1675 with an original Nipple dial is a demanding exercise. This dial offers a relief and reflections that are impossible to find on contemporary models. The contrast between the black lacquer, solid gold and steel gives this timepiece a strong presence on the wrist without ostentation. The market is particularly keen on these 4-digit models with Plexiglas lenses for their visual warmth. The natural tritium patina adds extra soul.
Delivered contents and condition
This historic timepiece bearing the number 5804057 was produced around 1978. It comes in a signed The Swiss Collector box. Although it no longer has its original documents, its mechanical integrity has been rigorously checked. The watch has benefited from a recent professional polishing to bring out the brilliance of the gold and steel, while respecting the lines of the 40 mm case. The Oyster bracelet remains in excellent condition. The dial and Nipple markers are in remarkable condition for a timepiece of this vintage. The watch presents as new, never worn or in exceptional condition, with no defects visible to the naked eye.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this piece. The watch comes with a 24-month The Swiss Collector warranty. We accept returns within 10 days according to our conditions. As the leading second-hand retailer in Switzerland and with the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for on-site fitting and collection or fully secure international shipping.