Rolex
1981 Rolex GMT-Master (Ref. 16758) 18K YG
The Rolex GMT-Master, a symbol of sophistication and versatility, has a storied history that dates back to 1954. It all started when Rolex received a request from Pan American Airways (Pan Am) to develop a technical pilot's watch capable of displaying two time zones simultaneously. With the advent of commercial transcontinental flights, Pan Am needed a watch for their long-haul international flight crews that would enable them to keep track of time in multiple locations.
GMT, which stands for Greenwich Mean Time, is the universal time standard that regulates the world's clocks and serves as the basis for aviation planning and schedules. The Rolex GMT-Master is equipped with a fourth 24-hour hand that displays the same time zone as the standard 12-hour hand, but on a 24-hour scale. This GMT hand allows wearers to set the watch to GMT or any other time zone and then adjust the offset using the rotating 24-hour bezel to display a second-time zone. This remarkable feature makes the Rolex GMT-Master a must-have for anyone who frequently travels across multiple time zones, allowing them to keep track of two time zones with ease and precision.
The Rolex ref. 16758, a highly transitional timepiece, was first introduced in 1980, shortly after the release of its stainless steel sibling the ref. 16750. This 18K yellow gold GMT-Master model was in production until 1988 and combined the latest technological advancements with classic design elements. Both the 16758 and 16750 featured the improved Cal. 3075 quick-set date movement, but the 16758 took it a step further with the addition of a sapphire crystal and a bidirectional click-spring bezel, which would not be seen on the stainless steel GMT-Master until the GMT-Master II ref. 16760.
The ref. 16758 GMT-Master represents the perfect balance of modernity and tradition. Its advanced features increase its ease of use but it also retains the classic style of the much-admired nipple dial configuration of its predecessor. This GMT-Master ref. 16758 is a unique gem that would make a proud addition to any discerning collector's collection. Its blend of technological advancements and vintage design make it truly one of a kind.
| Stock # | RLX16758GMT-4 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | GMT-Master | |
| Model | 16758 | |
| Serial | 65XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | 18K Yellow Gold | |
| Dial | Black "Nipple" | |
| Millimeters | 40 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 7206 18K YG Rivet Bracelet W/ 45B End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The stunning 18K yellow gold case is extraordinarily crisp as is has been recently expertly restored to factory specification. The extremely thick and symmetrical lugs feature defined chamfers and sharp finishing throughout with minimal signs of previous use. The original bezel insert is in perfect vintage condition, showing no age or fading whatsoever. The 18K yellow gold Rolex 7206 Oyster rivet bracelet with 45B end pieces retains 13 links that show light stretch and will fit up to an 8 1/4-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The original black dial with nipple markers is in beautiful condition. The dial does exhibit subtle, but attractive aging at the center and very edges of the dial. The tritium lume has achieved an excellent golden patina and shows no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly, under U.V. light inspection the second hand and 24hr hand exhibit minor cracking and remain stable, the hour and minute hands exhibit no degradation. The metallic gold date wheel is original with "open" 6's and 9's
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch just received a full service and comes backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.