ROLEX | GMT-MASTER POINTED CROWN GUARDS, UNDERLINE, DOUBLE SWISS, REF 1675, STAINLESS STEEL DUAL-TIME WRISTWATCH WITH DATE AND BRACELET, CIRCA 1963

A legendary model within the history of watchmaking and the unmistakable initiator of a new watch genre, the Rolex GMT-Master was born in 1954 following a functional request from Pan American Airlines. The newly introduced timepiece would initially be encased in stainless steel with a bracelet and allow for its sophisticated wearer to track dual time-zones whilst travelling the world. Following a short 5-year production period, the initial reference 6542 was replaced with the evolutive reference 1675 which was manufactured until 1980. The 1675 initially boasted a chapter ring glossy dial similar to the previous versions, before Rolex progressively updated its fine printing and finish, opting for a more modern matte look from the approximate 1.38X.XXX serial range onwards.

With a serial number dating it to 1963, the present Rolex 1675 features highly special and attractive features. The experienced collector will immediately be drawn to the very rare and fabulously preserved “underline double Swiss” dial. Observed on 1675 models with serials ranging approximately between 875.XXX-876.XXX and 1.004.XXX-1.14X.XXX, these elusive dials were issued in 1963 and 1964. They display a small horizontal silver line below the ‘GMT-Master Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified’ script, signalling the transition from highly radioactive Radium luminescent material to the marginally less harmful Tritium. These dials are deemed ‘transitional’ as Rolex introduced the “Swiss – T<25” script shortly after to comply with stringent market regulations requiring the radioactivity levels to be mentioned on the dial. As should be, the ‘underline’ dial features two ‘Swiss’ mentions at 6 o’clock. The evidently visible one is printed in silver across the outer minute track, matching with the underline, while a second and smaller ‘Swiss’ line is peaking below the outer minute track. The rare dial furthermore bears the tall and thin Coronet typically associated with the previously mentioned features. In addition to standing as a true vintage treasure in its own right, the present dial shows an intact lacquer coating and strikingly beautiful indexes which tout a sublimely thick texture and a homogeneous creamy patina, elegantly complementing the crisp gilt text.

In 1963, Rolex was still experimenting with the GMT Master’s case design by playing with ergonomics and fuelling its progressive alterations with customer feedback. In addition to boasting strong lines and clear bevels, the present case features ‘pointed crown guards’ evidenced by their pointy shape and sharply tapering profile. Typically associated with the ‘underline double Swiss’ dial, this early crown guard design was subsequently replaced with the squarer ones, allowing for better handling of the crown. Evidently, the rare case displays a “IV.63” engraving, matching with the 1'004'132 serial number visible between the lugs at 12 o’clock.

Lastly, the present lot is powered by the GMT-calibre 1565, based on the reliable 1560. Its main plate bears the 1560 reference, which is a widely accepted feature for the period, as Rolex likely re-used older plates during production.

 Offered on behalf of the family of the original UK-based owner, this honest and wonderfully preserved example represents a solid investment opportunity for demanding collectors who will only settle for direct provenance and exceptional condition.