1979 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16753 Black 'Nipple' dial

Introduced in 1979, the Rolex GMT-Master reference 16753 was the brand’s contemporary answer to the changing tastes of the late 20th century—a nod to both elegance and endurance. As a two-tone successor to the 1675/3, it modernized the GMT platform with a quickset date Caliber 3075 and a revised hand stack that placed the hour hand closest to the dial. Function met finesse in this reference, blending the practicality of a tool watch with the presence of yellow gold accents—an unmistakable statement on the wrist of the well-traveled.

The earliest iterations of the 16753 retained the now-celebrated “nipple” dial design, where hour markers stand in proud, gold-framed relief against a high-gloss backdrop. These came in either rich brown—nicknamed “Root Beer”—or the sleeker black variant, often paired with an all-black bezel insert. It’s within these early examples that the 16753 finds its most collectible form: combining transitional mechanics with gilt-era charm. The glossy lacquer dials, applied gold markers, and warm tritium lume plots offer a tangible link to the design language of Rolex’s past, even as the model stepped confidently into the future.

The example offered here is a Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16753 with black ‘Nipple’ dial from 1979.

The satin black dial remains in great condition with no visible wear. The lume has aged to a warm creamy hue and the hands match perfectly.

The case shows signs of previous polishing and normal wear signs consistent with its age. The black bezel is in excellent condition and shows only light wear. The 18k yellow gold bezel features a lovely rosy patina.

It comes suited on an unworn handmade leather strap with steel Rolex buckle.

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

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

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