The Rolex GMT-Master needs no introduction. It is perhaps the most iconic travel watch, allowing its wearer to simultaneously tell two time zones. Developed originally in the 1950s for PanAm pilots, who had then begun flying transatlantic routes more frequently, this handy tool watch was vital in order to track home and local time.
While you might be more accustomed to seeing the 1675 in stainless steel, yellow gold versions were produced and were understandably made in much lower quantities. As steel seems to be the trend now, these gold GMTs provide excellent value and you will see these much less often than their steel counterparts. This example in particular is made extra special as it features a rarer matte brown ‘nipple’ dial. It is named as such because the luminous material on the hour markers are located in the center of the markers, making it look like a nipple.
Furthermore, this one comes equipped with a Rolex President bracelet. While these bracelets are most often seen on Day Dates, it was an option for the GMT and in my opinion, makes the watch much more special. What further adds to the collectibility of this example is the fact that it comes with its original box and papers, something you just do not see very often these days.
To travel with a GMT-Master Ref.1675 on the wrist is certainly to travel in style, combining practicality with that mid-century cool. A genuine tool watch with some added bling, I really do feel that the GMT function is the most practical complication to have on the wrist, even today. All it takes is one look at the wrist and you will be able to tell the time at your selected timezone. For someone like me, or I am sure many of you, who travels a lot or even conducts business on the other side of the world, a GMT-Master is without a doubt, a welcome tool. It certainly is faster than fumbling around with your iPhone to find out.
I do feel that gold is making a comeback and on the wrist, it feels a lot more special than any steel rival. There is an old school cool to vintage gold watches and this 1675/8 perfectly encapsulates that.
