Rolex GMT-Master

Why We Love It

There’s a reason why the 16750 has a cult following among GMT-Master collectors: Rolex took the nearly-perfect Reference 1675 (in continuous production for decades), kept the black dial, hands, tritium lume and case, and souped it up under the hood. Hard to go wrong with a recipe like that.

The earlier Reference 1675 GMT-Master with a “Pepsi” bezel seems to be on the top of every collector’s wish list these days. That’s no surprise- after all, it has timeless good looks and a great story behind it- and after playing second fiddle to the Submariners and Daytonas for too long, the GMT is getting its moment in the spotlight.

This particular 16750 features a quick-set date function, a glossy black dial with beautifully patinated luminous material, and a strong, thick case with no signs of over-polishing.

All in all consider this GMT Master a tremendously smart investment - and a great watch to wear and enjoy!

The Story

With its roots in the jet-setting 1950s and 1960s, when the emergence of jet travel made the world seem so much smaller, owning a Rolex GMT Master (a watch that was literally designed for the Jet Set) was a way to broadcast your success. Even today, the Reference 1675 (introduced in 1960) remains, in collectors' minds, as the quintessence of the model, owned by astronauts and our company's founder alike (he wishes he was an astronaut!).

But the 1675 was only produced from 1960 to 1980. A long time, to be sure, but the desirability of matte dial examples from the 1960s and 1970s has created a scarcity of them on the market. Meanwhile, at nearly 40 years of age, examples of the model that Rolex produced to succeed the 1675 (the Reference 16750) are now becoming vintage.

The 16750 is what’s known as a transitional model by Rolex collectors today. Early versions boasted a matte dial, just like the Reference 1675. However, after a few years Rolex transitioned to a glossy dial with white gold surrounds on the hour markers. This was the same style of dial that was carried over into the current line up of GMT-Master II models. 

Savvy collectors gravitated to the Reference 16750 because it is virtually identical to the classic 1675 on the outside, but features a more modern and improved movement on the inside. In an effort to keep up with the competition, Rolex introduced new movements in the 1970s with higher beat rates and quick-set dates. With the upgraded Caliber 3075 movement, the 16750 had an increased beat rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour (now the modern standard), and the quick-set date was a welcome convenience for owners.

It’s not hard to understand why the 16750 GMT-Master is viewed as the model to own by many knowledgeable collectors. With a short production run (only eight years) and a cult following of its own, the Reference 16750 deserves to be considered as a classic in its own right, and not just as a more affordable alternative to the 1675. 

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.