1968 Rolex GMT-Master 1675/8 Root Beer Solid Gold, Box and Papers, Single Owner

Up for grabs is a Rolex GMT-Master in solid 18kt yellow gold

1675 reference 

2.1 mil serial number circa 1968 production

This watch has been discovered and purchased by me from its original owner. For privacy reasons, we will just call him Mr. George. Mr. George has purchased this watch brand new in 1970 from an exchange with recommendation of his wife, who wanted him to have the gold version instead of the steel as he originally planned to get. He spent over 20 years as a commercial pilot, flying for TWA (Trans World Airlines). We were all lucky enough that Mr. George saved the original box, paperwork, and even the hang tag with matching serial number! This watch is not a safe queen, it is not a watch from collector’s secret stash, its is not “untouched and unserviced”, but it is an honest, true original owner piece purchase from a 78 year old gentleman. A brief note from Mr. George will accompany this set. 

Excellent vintage condition case was found with “sleeve polish” wear from age and being regularly worn. I have had the case rebrushed and bevels redefined by LA Watchworks. The lugs are very thick and even, as are the crown guards. After 46 years of being worn, the serial and reference numbers have been worn down by bracelet, but you can still make out and match the serial number to the original punched papers. 

Dial is original, nipple matte root beer with applied logo. There is a chip at bottom of 6 o’clock from previous service. The hands are believe to be original, they are tritium and do not glow in dark, just haven’t developed any color change in patina. 

Bezel insert is original, all-brown with a “ghost” fade to it. Very attractive in pictures and in person. 

Caseback is in excellent vintage condition with sharp lock teeth and stamped 1675 inside. 

Bracelet is original and as it was purchased when new Swiss rivet with 80 end-links, 12 links, ’67 date on clasp, moderate stretch from use. 

The watch comes with its original box (inner insert is missing), original polishing cloth, original warranty booklet from Rolex which is punched with serial number and punched 1675, original COSC certificate also punched with serial number, original hang tag in mint condition with matching serial number, original GMT-Master manual fold out. 

Aside from redefining the case and bracelet’s finishes, the watch is untouched and exactly as found.