1959 rolex gmt master | Rolex GMT Master vintage

The year is 1959. The Jet Age is in full swing. Pan Am is soaring through the skies, connecting continents with unprecedented speed. And on the wrists of pilots and discerning travelers, a new symbol of global reach is emerging: the 1959 Rolex GMT-Master. This particular year, nestled within the early production run of the reference 1675, represents a pivotal point in the evolution of this iconic timepiece. It's more than just a watch; it's a tangible piece of history, a testament to the spirit of adventure, and a masterclass in functional design.

The Rolex GMT-Master, even in its nascent stages, was a revolutionary creation. It addressed a very real need of the era: the ability to track multiple time zones simultaneously. While other brands dabbled in world timers, Rolex delivered a robust, reliable, and undeniably stylish solution that quickly became the go-to choice for those traversing the globe. And while numerous manufacturers have attempted to emulate its design and functionality, none have quite captured the essence of the original. The 1959 Rolex GMT-Master, particularly the reference 1675 models produced that year, stands as a pinnacle of vintage watch collecting, representing the genesis of a legend.

The Birth of a Legend: Understanding the Rolex GMT-Master

The story of the Rolex GMT-Master begins in the mid-1950s. Pan American Airways, seeking a reliable and easy-to-read timepiece for their pilots flying international routes, approached Rolex with a specific request: a watch that could display both local time and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). This collaboration resulted in the Rolex GMT-Master, reference 6542, released in 1954. While the 6542 laid the groundwork, it was the subsequent reference 1675, introduced in 1959, that truly solidified the GMT-Master's place in horological history.

The Rolex GMT-Master Ref 1675: A Defining Era (and Why 1959 Matters)

The Rolex GMT-Master reference 1675, produced from 1959 to 1980, represents the longest production run of any GMT-Master reference. This extended period allowed for numerous subtle variations and improvements, making it a fascinating and complex subject for collectors. The 1959 models, however, occupy a special niche. They represent the *earliest* iterations of the 1675, incorporating features that would be refined or phased out in later years. This makes them highly sought after for their historical significance and relative rarity.

Key characteristics that define the 1959 Rolex GMT-Master ref 1675 include:

* Pointed Crown Guards (PCG): One of the most recognizable features of early 1675s is the presence of pointed crown guards. These guards, designed to protect the winding crown, feature a distinct pointed shape, often referred to as "cornino" (little horn) by Italian collectors. This design was later replaced with more rounded crown guards, making the PCG models particularly desirable. The sharpness and precise shape of the PCG on a 1959 model is a critical detail for authentication.

* Gilt Dials: The dials of early 1675s, including those from 1959, are typically gilt. This means that the lettering and minute track are printed in gold, creating a warm and luxurious aesthetic. The gilt printing process involved a delicate technique that often resulted in a glossy, reflective surface. The condition of the gilt printing is a key factor in determining the value of a vintage 1675.

* Small GMT Hand: Compared to later models, the GMT hand on early 1675s is generally smaller and more delicate in appearance. This subtle detail can be a telltale sign of an early production model.

* Bezel Inserts: The original bezel inserts for the GMT-Master were made of Bakelite, a type of early plastic. These bezels were prone to cracking and fading, and were later replaced with aluminum inserts. While a Bakelite bezel in good condition is highly prized, finding one is increasingly difficult. The aluminum bezel inserts of the 1959 models feature the iconic "Pepsi" color scheme – a combination of red and blue – that has become synonymous with the GMT-Master.

* Movement: The 1959 GMT-Master ref 1675 was powered by the Caliber 1565. This movement was a reliable and robust workhorse, capable of accurately tracking two time zones simultaneously. It featured a hacking seconds function, which allowed the seconds hand to be stopped when the crown was pulled out, facilitating precise time setting.

* Case: The stainless steel Oyster case of the 1959 GMT-Master provided excellent protection for the movement. The case featured a screw-down crown and case back, ensuring water resistance. The lug holes, which are used to attach the bracelet, are typically drilled through, allowing for easy strap changes.