The Rolex GMT-Master, a watch synonymous with aviation and global travel, boasts a rich history spanning decades. Its evolution, marked by subtle yet significant design changes and technological advancements, has captivated collectors and enthusiasts alike. While the modern GMT-Master II reigns supreme, the allure of the original GMT-Master, particularly the coveted “Pepsi” and “Coke” bezel variations, remains unparalleled. This article explores the fascinating lineage of the original GMT-Master (referred to as GMT-Master 1 in this context to distinguish it from the GMT-Master II), showcasing key models and their defining features through images (Note: Since I cannot display images directly, I will describe the key visual elements of each model).
Rolex GMT Master Model 1675:
The Rolex GMT-Master 1675, produced from approximately 1959 to 1980, represents a significant chapter in the watch's history. This model cemented the GMT-Master's iconic status, with its robust construction and enduring design. Visually, the 1675 is characterized by its larger crown guards compared to its predecessor, the 6542. The bezel, often seen in "Pepsi" (blue and red) and "Coke" (red and black) variations, is a key identifier. (Imagine an image here showing the various bezel colors and the characteristic crown guards). The dial variations are numerous, ranging from matte finishes to glossy, with different hand styles and lume plots also adding to the model's diversity. The case itself is typically 40mm, a size that has remained relatively consistent throughout the GMT-Master lineage. The movement, a caliber 1575, is a reliable workhorse known for its accuracy and durability. Finding a pristine example of a 1675, especially with a desirable bezel, is a feat coveted by many collectors. Variations in the dial, hands, and bezel inserts across the production run of the 1675 make each example unique and highly collectible. The condition of the lume (tritium, often aged to a creamy color) is also a key factor in determining value. The transition from the earlier acrylic crystals to more scratch-resistant sapphire crystals also marks a subtle difference between early and later production 1675s.
1960 GMT Master Model Rolex:
While the exact model number isn't specified, a 1960 Rolex GMT-Master would likely fall within the 6542 or early 1675 production runs. (Imagine an image here showcasing a 1960s GMT-Master, highlighting the smaller crown guards characteristic of the earlier models compared to the 1675). The key difference between a 1960 model and later iterations would primarily lie in the subtle design nuances. These might include smaller crown guards, differences in the font of the hour markers or the Rolex coronet, and the material and color of the bezel insert. The lume on a 1960 GMT-Master would almost certainly be tritium, showing significant age-related discoloration in most surviving examples. The overall aesthetic would reflect the more utilitarian design sensibilities of the era. The movement would likely be a caliber 1036 in a 6542 or a 1575 in an early 1675.
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