1988 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16750 with WGS 'Bicchierini' dial

The Rolex GMT-Master 16750 occupies a rare and fascinating space in the GMT lineage—a true transitional reference, bridging the vintage soul of the 1675 with the mechanical and aesthetic advancements that would define modern Rolex. Produced from circa 1981 to 1988, it’s a reference that wears two faces: one rooted in the past, the other facing forward.

At its core, the 16750 introduced a significant upgrade: the Caliber 3075. This new movement brought with it the long-awaited quickset date function, allowing for independent adjustment of the date—a practical leap from the earlier 1675. Despite this mechanical shift, the watch retained much of the vintage charm of its predecessor: a plexiglass crystal, 39mm case, and the familiar red 24-hour hand tracing the iconic two-tone bezel.

What truly sets the 16750 apart, however, is its dial evolution—a detail that’s become a point of obsession among collectors. Early examples (1981–1983) featured matte dials with painted tritium indices, nicknamed “Pallettoni”. These have a depth and softness that evoke the best of vintage Rolex aesthetics. But from around 1984 onward, Rolex phased in the glossy dials with white gold surrounds—referred to by Italian collectors as “Bicchierini.” These later dials reflect more light, feel more modern, and anticipate the look of the coming GMT references.

This duality is what makes the 16750 so appealing—it straddles two eras without fully belonging to either. It can lean vintage or modern, depending on the dial and bracelet. Yet across both dial types, it remains true to the core GMT-Master identity: robust, legible, and made for the world traveler.

Today, the 16750 is quietly being recognized for what it is: an essential chapter in the evolution of the GMT, with the nuance, rarity, and variation that collectors crave. Whether matte or glossy, Pallettoni or Bicchierini, it’s a reference that reminds us just how compelling Rolex can be when it’s in transition.

The example offered here is a Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16750 from 1988 with WGS ‘Bicchierini’ dial.

The glossy dial remains in great condition with only light wear. The patina on the white gold surround hour markers has developed a stunning rich mustard hue matching perfectly with that on the original hands.

The stainless steel case remains in good shape, letting visible signs of previous polishing. It shows light wear signs for its age. The case back remains in the same condition. The stainless steel bezel remains strong too. The original blue-back bezel insert features lovely vivid hues both to the blue and red portions and remains in perfect condition with no visible wear.

It comes suited on its original Rolex Oyster 78360 solid-links stainless steel bracelet with 580 end links and a period-matching clasp coded M9 that shows light signs of wear and little stretch.

The original acrylic crystal has some scratches that could be easily polished away if wanted.

The watch is running well and keeping time as it has been fully serviced in February 2025.

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