Rolex GMT-Master 1675 “Fuchsia” Bezel on Jubilee Bracelet
RolexThe GMT-Master reference 1675 is a Rolex masterpiece, there is something incredibly special about the reference. Perhaps it is the way it can make you feel when you travel with it. I might be biased though! A GMT is always on my wrist when I am on a plane. Kinda like a horological safety blanket. Featured here is a 1972 example found in fantastic condition still retaining its thick case. Fitted on a jubilee bracelet and wearing a fan favorite “fuchsia” bezel insert. What was once a bright red and blue bezel deemed the “Pepsi” has faded into a navy blue and fuchsia color. A detail that is incredibly sought after by fans and collectors. The beauty of vintage Rolex is the fact that no two examples will ever be the same. Each watch is unique in its own way. Each has led a different life and that’s what makes collecting these watches so fascinating and all- encompassing. Note: the dial on this GMT has been replaced with a newer one and the hour hand appears to have lost some luminescence material.
In-Depth Reading
The Rolex GMT-Master burst into the scene thanks to a collaboration between the Swiss manufacturer and the American airline Pan Am. The model was developed to aid airline pilots as they embarked on long transcontinental flights. The very first GMT model was the ref. 6542 now deemed the no crown “bakelite” for its plastic rotating bezel and lack of crown guards. The 6542 had an interesting short life for three main reasons. The first being its radium filled bezel, which led to people claiming they had gotten sick through their exposure to the chemical. The second was also centered around the bezel but this time it was about its fragility. Bakelite cracked easily, which compromised the watch’s integrity. The third and last reason was the absence of crown guards, which enabled humidity and moisture to get inside the movement and wreak absolute havoc to the movement and dial inside. In 1959 the 6542 was phased out and the workhorse 1675 was introduced. Along with it came an endless variety of dials, bezel types, movements, and details that make the reference one of the most collected and sought after by collectors.
Technical Specifications
Brand: Rolex
Model: GMT-Master
Reference: 1675
Case Size: 40mm
Movement: Automatic Cal. 1575
Complications: GMT Function
Noteworthy Details: Fuschia colored bezel insert Crystal: Plexiglass
Year of Manufacture: 1972
Box & Papers: No
