Rolex
GMT-Master Reference 6542, a stainless steel automatic wristwatch with date, circa 1959
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Details
Description
By 1953, the commercial trans-Atlantic airline industry was at a point where planes were able to take off on one side of the ocean and land on the other in a matter of mere hours. As a result of this expansion and innovation, Pan American airlines approached Rolex, and the two companies began working on a watch that could easily tell the hour in two different time zones.
The Reference 6542 GMT-Master was released in 1954 and became the official timepiece of Pan-Am Airlines. It was equipped with a Bakelite bezel with radium luminous indexes and bezel. Their pilots found the watch to be a useful tool in the cockpit where many timing calculations were necessary over the duration of the flight.
Condition Report
FairThe watch is in overall fair condition with moderate wear throughout commensurate with age. Case is in overall fair condition with moderate surface wear. Bracelet has moderate signs of stretch and surface wear throughout commensurate with age. Buckle has signs of scratches. Dial has aged with patina. The movement is running at the time of cataloging, however, it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
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Dimension Notes
Fits a wrist size of 7.25 inches or smaller.
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