1972 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 'Root Beer' MK2 'Serif' matte 'Nipple' dial

The Rolex GMT-Master 1675/3 emerged at a turning point in the history of professional watches. As air travel shifted from military necessity to aspirational lifestyle, Rolex responded by adding a touch of luxury to its most jet-set tool watch. Introduced as the bi-metal counterpart to the steel 1675, the 1675/3 blended stainless steel and 18k yellow gold into a new, elevated expression of the GMT. With the same robust 40mm Oyster case and Caliber 1575 ticking within, it remained every bit a pilot’s watch—but one that looked just as at home in a first-class lounge as in a cockpit.

Among the most collectible configurations of the 1675/3 are the matte brown “nipple” dial variants produced in the early 1970s. These dials featured applied gold hour markers shaped like small domes or cones—earning the affectionate collector nickname “nipple dials”—along with a lacquered brown finish that ages in uniquely expressive ways. The MK2 “serif” dials from this period are particularly beloved for their intricate typeface, where letters like the ‘E’ in “ROLEX” carry delicate flares and footed ends. Paired with the two-tone Jubilee bracelet and the warm, dual-colored bezel insert—nicknamed “Root Beer” for its uncanny resemblance to the fizzy American soda—this reference captures the aesthetic mood of its era like few others.

The example offered here is a Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675/3 ‘Root Beer’ with MK 2 ‘Serif’ matte ‘Nipple’ dial which dates to 1972.

The period correct, brown, grainy matte MK2 ‘Serif’ dial remains in excellent condition with no visible wear, featuring a vibrant brown hue when exposed to sunlight. The ‘Nipple’ hour markers present a charming and warm patina hue which matches perfectly with that on the original golden hands.

The stainless steel case remains thick, still showing factory standards like the prominent lug bevels. It shows normal wear signs. The case back remains in the same condition. The 18k yellow gold bezel has aged featuring a lovely rosy patina. The original insert is mint with little to no aging.

The original acrylic crystal has some minor marks that could be easily buffed away if wanted.

It is running well and keeping time, although service history is unknown.

It comes suited on its Rolex Jubilee 78360 solid-links stainless steel and yellow gold bracelet with 602B end links and clasp code I11 that shows only minor wear and stretch for its age.

Macros of dial and case are available under request, as well as movement and inner case back pictures.