85 Rolex A very attractive and iconic, GMT-Master 'Cornino Freccino,' automatic wristwatch in steel, with tropical brown dial, reference 1675.

Estimate: € 25,000 –⁠ 50,000

Model	GMT Master
Reference	1675
Case Material	Stainless steel
Bracelet Material	Stainless steel Rolex bracelet, approximate length 195mm
Year	1960
Movement	Automatic, cal. 1560, 25 jewels
Case N°	624'031
Dimensions	39mm Diameter
Signed	Case, dial and movement

At the beginning of the ’50s, the famous airline company Pan Am was looking for a small instrument that could allow pilots to keep track of time in two locations. It is said that “necessity is the mother of invention,” and this need, to which Pan Am sought an answer, was satisfied by the usual and unsurpassed genius of Rolex, following the incredible success of the tool watches they began producing in the mid-20th century. In 1954, Rolex introduced the first GMT-Master model, Reference 6542, featuring an instantly recognizable bakelite bezel insert with the twenty-four-hour markings printed on its underside. Just five years later, in response to the success of this model, Rolex unveiled Reference 1675, which remained in production until 1980 and introduced key modifications to enhance durability and functionality. The fragile bakelite bezel was replaced with an aluminum insert, and crown guards were added for extra protection. The example presented here is a stunning and highly unusual specimen of the 1675, distinguished by its charming milk-chocolate tropical brown dial, which has aged into a warm and captivating hue over time, contrasting beautifully with the faded blue and red/copper-toned bezel. The stainless steel case is in great condition, complementing the gilt text that remains crisp and legible. The watch retains its classic Cyclops date magnifier at 3 o’clock, enhancing legibility, and features the characteristic red GMT hand with a small arrow tip nicknamed “Freccino”, allowing the wearer to track a second time zone effortlessly. The rarity of this timepiece is further enhanced by the presence of pointed crown guards, nicknamed “Cornino”, as well as the original small arrow tip of the 24 hour hand, usually changed to the later version during services. The presence of the stainless steel Oyster riveted bracelet completes the timepiece’s sporty yet elegant aesthetic. This watch is not only a functional instrument but also a collector’s dream, representing a key chapter in Rolex’s history of innovation and adventure.

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GENEVA
Eternity Gallery Geneva
31 March – 2 April, from 10 AM to 7 PM

DUBAI
Opera Gallery Dubai
9 – 11 April, from 10 AM to 8 PM

MONACO
Hôtel Méridien Beach Plaza
24 April, from 11 AM to 8 PM
25 April, from 10:30 AM to 8 PM
26 April, from 10 AM to 12:30 PM
27 April, from 10 AM to 12:30 PM

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