Why This Watch Matters The GMT-Master is the ultimate jet-set watch, and this example in two-tone brings us back to a time when air travel was actually still somewhat glamorous, instead of the exercise in repeated minor humiliations that it’s become today. If you’re looking to remember a time when some people still actually got dressed up to fly – as well as a great tool-watch history that includes both civil and military aviation, and use in manned spaceflight (albeit not “official”) the GMT Master is for you. This example is especially choice thanks to its mint condition and original box and papers. The Full Story The reference 16750 was introduced in 1980 to replace the classic reference 1675. The awesome 16750 you see here has a clean black dial and “nipple” indexes which are characteristic for this two-tone example. The 16750 was very similar to its predecessor but featured the new automatic caliber 3075 movement with the new quick-set date function, which allows for a quick turn around when zipping between two different time-zones. An interesting historical note, well known to GMT Master enthusiasts, is that this was the last GMT Master that did not have the independently settable hour hand characteristic of later references. Now, while that may mean it’s slightly less useful for travelers looking to track time in two time zones (though as with all GMT Masters, the 24 hour turning bezel has you covered there if you need it) it also means this reference still represents the original GMT Master design. Full set as well, with complete box, paper and tags, and on top of that, a great, slightly off-the-beaten-path two tone look. The Fine Print Maker: RolexModel: GMT- MasterReference: 16750Year: Circa 1982Case No: 7258xxxMaterial: Stainless Steel and Yellow GoldDimensions: 40mm diameter; 13mm thickLume: Tritium Nipple IndexesSapphire Crystal: NoCaliber: Automatic caliber 3075Bracelet/Strap: Two-tone Jubliee bracelet with folding clasp (ref. 9476)Lug Width: 20mm (end links reference 450)Box/Papers: With original box and tag The Fine Print Here at HODINKEE, we have seen many GMTs in our day and we can say with certainty this is a fantastic example. We might even make so bold to say it has never been worn but we will let you decide (it’s not a claim that ever can or should be made of any pre-owned watch but it says something about this GMT Master that you could plausibly say it). The case is nearly perfect with super sharp lugs. The bracelet links are clean and crisp. The bracelet is extremely large implying that it has never been sized. The only blemish is a slight mark to the bezel at 22. Other than that, this is about as clean as it gets, and certainly about as clean as we’ve ever seen.
