Collection
Jay (Eire) revisits a long-held Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16750, a piece that, despite its significant horological appeal, has seen minimal wrist time in his collection. His candid reflection on why certain watches resonate more than others, even those acquired at an attractive entry point, offers a relatable perspective for many collectors. This discussion explores the subjective nature of collecting and the ongoing evolution of personal taste.
The GMT-Master reference 16750 represents a transitional period for the model, bridging the gap between the long-running vintage reference 1675 and the modern five-digit references. It introduced significant technical updates while retaining much of the aesthetic character of its predecessor. This reference is notable for incorporating a quickset date function, a crucial advancement for user convenience that was absent in earlier GMT-Master models. It maintained the classic GMT-Master design language, making it appealing to collectors who appreciate both vintage aesthetics and improved functionality.
This reference features a 40 mm stainless steel case, housing the automatic caliber 3075. This movement provides a power reserve of approximately 42 hours and includes the aforementioned quickset date complication. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal, consistent with its transitional vintage status, and offers water resistance up to 100 meters. The bidirectional rotating aluminum bezel with a 24-hour graduated insert allows for the tracking of a third time zone.
For collectors, the 16750 is particularly interesting due to its relatively short production run and the combination of vintage and modern features. Early examples often feature matte dials, while later versions transitioned to gloss dials with white gold surrounds for the hour markers, offering distinct variations for enthusiasts. Its position as a transitional reference makes it a key piece in understanding the evolution of the GMT-Master line, appealing to those seeking a watch with both historical significance and enhanced practicality.
Please send to me, and I’ll give it the wrist time it deserves ��
It looks pretty great to me...but everyone is different and perceives things differently obviuosly. Color combinations, size, metals, etc...sometimes it just doesn't evoque anything special for some and other think it's the greatest watch ever...lol....collecting is weird as you say. You think you would warm to it more if you wear it more often? I am a bit opposite...I really like the current GMT Master II but the sub doesn't do whole lot for me...go figure!
And quick date change is practical ...
But I never quite got there on the Sub. Modern yes, neo vintage (Kermit) yes, but not the 5512 or 5513 I had thought about for years. As always with watch collecting there is unfinished business!
Interestingly I kinda prefer it like this. It’s actually the bezel which I don’t like on mine, I would prefer something more weathered or aged. I just never got around to purchasing one. To be fair, it also bugs me that my case is not great. It had seen some polishing and perhaps not expertly done. That said, I paid very little for this watch so I can’t complain too much. How do you like it this way?
As mentioned in my reply to Nicolas above it’s actually a simple fix to get this GMT to something I prefer aesthetically…just a new bezel. I haven’t gotten there yet despite owning this watch for a long long time.
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