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A Companion for Crossing Time — the Rolex GMT-Master had already secured its place among the most purposeful wristwatches ever conceived. Born from the demands of intercontinental travel, the reference 1675 carried forward the legacy of its predecessor with quiet confidence—refined, reliable, and unmistakably Rolex.
This particular example, dating to circa 1970, presents itself with the kind of honest charm we look for. Its matte dial, softly aged over decades, offers a warmth that no modern production can replicate. The typography remains crisp, the coronet elegantly drawn—details that reveal themselves slowly, rewarding a closer look. The Mark 1, often referred to as the “Long E” dial, represents the earliest recognized matte dial variation of the reference. Its nickname stems from a subtle yet distinctive detail: the central bar of the “E” in “ROLEX,” which extends noticeably further than on other executions—an idiosyncrasy unique to this specific dial variant.
Framing the dial is the classic red and blue “Pepsi” bezel—here in its traditional form, free from excessive fading, retaining the clarity and intent of its original design. The bi-color insert was never merely aesthetic; it remains a functional nod to the separation of day and night, a subtle yet essential companion for the traveler.
What draws us in, however, is the cohesion. The gentle patina of the lume, the depth of the matte dial, and the balanced presence of the bezel come together in a way that feels entirely natural—unforced, authentic. It is this harmony that defines a truly compelling vintage GMT.
Fitted with its Jubilee bracelet, the watch carries an added sense of ease and refinement on the wrist. A slightly less common pairing, yet one that feels entirely appropriate—offering both comfort and a touch of understated elegance.
The GMT-Master 1675 remains a cornerstone of vintage Rolex collecting. Examples like this remind us why: not for perfection, but for character. A watch shaped by time, yet entirely at home in the present.
Rolex GMT Master | MK1 Long E | ref. 1675 from 1970
Movement: The movement has been fully checked by our master watchmaker in Q1 2026. Movement is running perfectly and the caseback has been sealed accordingly. (Pressure test available)
Dial: The dial has taken on a light, even patina—subtle in its expression yet adding a welcome sense of depth. Its matte surface remains notably clean, retaining a pleasing clarity throughout. The lume plots have aged to a warm, creamy tone, lending a gentle contrast against the dial and enhancing its overall balance. All printing appears crisp and well-preserved, as one would hope. The date wheel is correct for the period, featuring the characteristic round 3 along with closed 6s and 9s—details that quietly affirm its originality.
Glass: The plexiglass is in very good condition with no scratches or cracks.
Hands: The handset, correct in length and style for this case number and Mark 1 Dial, exhibits some patina. The lume on the hands matches that of the dial.
Case: This GMT presents in overall very good and highly attractive condition. The case shows honest signs of wear with light surface scratches and evidence of a past polish, yet it remains well-defined and pleasing in its proportions. The numbers between the lugs are clearly legible, while the reverse of the lugs displays minor marks consistent with bracelet changes over time. The caseback retains its correct brushed finish, as it should.
Crown: Original Rolex signed Crown in good condition.
Bezel: The watch is fitted with a red and blue “Pepsi” bezel insert (Redback!). The colors remain well-defined with no excessive fading observed, preserving the original contrast between the two halves. The insert shows normal wear consistent with age but retains good overall clarity and legibility.
Bracelet: The bracelet, though showing some scratches and minor stretch between the links, remains in good to very good shape considering its age. The clasp is stamped "C," indicating production in 1978.
BRAND: Rolex
MODEL: GMT-Master
REFERENCE: 1675
SERIAL NUMBER: 2,4 Mio.
YEAR: 1970
MOVEMENT: Rolex, self-winding, caliber 1575
CASE DIMENSIONS: 39mm diameter; 11.5mm thickness
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel
GLASS: Plexiglass
BRACELET: Rolex folded Jubilee Bracelet with 555 Endlinks. Full length fits wrist size circumference up to 19cm
CLASP: Rolex Big Crown clasp stamped with code C
BOX & PAPERS: None
TAX: Differential taxation according to §24 UStG
