1978 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 MK 4 dial

The first GMT-Master in production ever was the ref. 6542 and was introduced in 1954. But, perhaps one of the most popular vintage Rolex GMT-Master watches is this ref. 1675. Introduced in 1959 and produced till 1980.

 

Till the mid-1960s, the extra hour hand featured a small triangle and was succeeded by a red hand with a larger triangle through-out the late 1960s and 1970s. Early 1960s models also featured pointed crown guards and a chapter ring, while mid 1960s and on started featuring regular crown guards. True to the era, the first generation of GMT-Master ref. 1675 watches included glossy black dials with gilt printing. This was the case up until the mid-1960s when Rolex exchanged them for matt black dials with white text.

The example offered here for sale is a Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 with MK IV dial from 1978.

 

The Mark 4 dial shows some signs of wear, as well as an oil stain near the center post due to some leaking of excess oil in a previous service.  The ‘maxi’ lume plots have most probably been professionally relumed and feature a light creamy patina hue, as well as the hands which show a matching patina.

 

The previously polished case is even and remains very strong, with thick lugs and preserving prominent bevels. It shows normal wear marks. The case back remains in the same condition.

 

The blue-back ‘Pepsi’ insert shows a nice fade to both portions and has wear marks.

 

The original acrylic crystal has some minor scratches that could be easily buffed away.

 

The watch is running well and keeping time, as it has been fully serviced recently.

 

It is suited on its Rolex Oyster 78360 solid-links stainless steel bracelet with 580 end links and a matching clasp code VB that shows some normal wear and little stretch for its age.

 

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