22 Rolex An incredibly rare, historically important, GMT Master, automatic wristwatch in steel, with highly sought-after white 'Albino' dial, coming directly from the military owner family, reference 6542.

Estimate: € 120,000 –⁠ 240,000

A 20% import VAT is due on the final price including premium, only if it is delivered within the EU.

Celebrating 70 Years of an Icon
Introduced in 1955, the Rolex GMT-Master is one of the most recognizable and enduring designs in the world of horology. Over the past seven decades, it has cemented its status as the definitive dual-time zone tool watch, beloved by collectors and travellers alike. From its origins as a pilot’s instrument to its place as a highly coveted collector’s piece, the GMT-Master has remained an essential chapter in Rolex’s legacy of innovation and excellence.

A Groundbreaking Companion for the Jet Age
The Rolex GMT-Master Reference 6542 was launched at the dawn of the Jet Age, designed to meet the needs of international pilots. With its bi-colour 24-hour bezel and additional hand to track a second time zone, it quickly became the preferred timepiece for professionals navigating multiple time zones. Pan American Airways, recognizing the watch’s utility, selected the GMT-Master for their pilots, further cementing its status as the quintessential travel watch.
The first GMT-Master introduced hallmark features that would remain iconic: an Oyster case, a rotatable bezel, and a bold colour scheme. The original model sported a red-and-blue Bakelite bezel, which later transitioned to a more durable aluminum insert. These colours, symbolizing day-and-night hours, would go on to define the GMT-Master aesthetic and remain integral to Rolex’s modern designs.

Evolution and Refinement
In 1959, Rolex introduced the GMT-Master 1675, a model that would remain in production for over 20 years. This update introduced crown guards, a larger 40 mm case, and an improved calibre 1565 movement, ensuring even greater durability and precision. The GMT-Master also evolved stylistically, offering an array of bezel options, including the classic Pepsi, all-black, and later, the warm brown-and-gold bezel that would earn the nickname “Root Beer.”
Throughout its evolution, Rolex maintained the timeless DNA of the GMT-Master while refining the mechanics. The most significant leap came in 1983 with the launch of the GMT-Master II. This updated model allowed for the independent adjustment of the hour hand, enabling wearers to track three time zones rather than two. Rolex also introduced sapphire crystals, updated calibres, and new case materials, further enhancing both function and luxury appeal.

The Ultimate Collector’s Piece
Today, the Rolex GMT-Master remains one of the most sought-after sports watches in the collecting world. Vintage references like the 6542 Bakelite bezel, the 1675 with gilt dial, and the solid gold 16 758 are among the most collectible models, while modern iterations like the ceramic Pepsi, Batman, and Root Beer continue to captivate watch enthusiasts.


This particular Rolex GMT-Master reference 6542 is a true collector’s piece, distinguished not only by its rarity but also by its extraordinary provenance. Originally acquired by a Chilean Marine Infantry soldier, this watch accompanied him throughout his distinguished military career in the Armada de Chile, where he rose through the ranks from Sargento 2° to Suboficial Mayor. Having remained in the possession of its original owner, this GMT-Master carries an exceptional level of historical authenticity, making it an unmissable opportunity for collectors.
Within the world of highly coveted and seldom-seen GMT-Masters, this reference 6542 stands as one of the most extraordinary examples ever discovered. What sets this watch apart is its exceptionally rare white “Albino” dial, a term used by collectors to describe its unique white coloration—a striking deviation from the traditional black dials typically seen on this reference. Over the decades, the radium hour markers have developed a rich caramel patina, further enhancing its vintage allure and uniqueness. Such dials are believed to have been produced in extremely limited quantities, and their survival over time adds immense historical and collector value.
Considering the impeccable pedigree of provenance and the fact that the present watch, bearing serial number 461 420, is part of the last batch of production of reference 6542, we have reason to believe that the steel bezel on this exceptional timepiece is the original one mounted by Rolex during the pivotal transition from bakelite to steel bezels. Showing normal signs of wear, it serves as a testament to the watch’s decades of use—reinforcing its identity as an authentic tool watch designed for aviation professionals. The presence of the white “Albino” dial, combined with its military provenance, elevates this example to be one of the rarest GMT Master ever produced and ever surfaced the market, transforming it from a practical pilot’s instrument into a collector’s dream and an irreplaceable artifact of Rolex horological history.