Amanico, a revered member of the WatchProSite community, shares a deeply personal reflection on his 25-year journey in watch collecting, anchored by the iconic Rolex GMT-Master reference 16700. His narrative explores the profound influence of a childhood memory and a specific watch on his horological passion. This article delves into why the 16700 holds such a significant place in his heart and the lessons learned over a quarter-century of collecting.
Why the GMT MASTER, and why the 16700? Because it was my first serious watch, THE watch which made me jump into the watch madness.
In fact, when I was 16, I fell on a TV Series, called Magnum, in French. I saw Thomas Magnum as child saluting his father's coffin, wearing his father's Rolex 1675.
I immediately fell in love with this watch and made the promise to myself that I will get one, one day. I had to wait 20 more years to achieve this dream. And it was a 16700, which I stupidly sold.
Here are some photos I found on the net, to pay homage to this watch, and more precisely to this reference.
Credit: Amsterdam Watch Company:
Credit: Lunar Oyster:
Credit: Babaorum.
Credit: Christies, for these last two pictures:
Mine had the blue and red insert.
This reference led me to watch madness, as since then, I caught the virus / bug, in a frenetical way.
But the GMT MASTER was and still is very dear to my heart. This watch has everything I like: An incredible look, a friendly complication and a lot of character. At the point that when I decide, one day, to put a final end to collecting, I think it will be with a last watch... A GMT MASTER.
Another lesson I learned, during all these years: Do never sell your first watch!
Best,
Nicolas
About the Rolex GMT Ref. 1675
The GMT-Master reference 1675 is a significant model in the brand's history, representing an evolution from earlier GMT-Master references. It was produced for an extended period, allowing for numerous dial, bezel, and hand variations throughout its production run. This reference is notable for its introduction of crown guards, enhancing the watch's robustness and contributing to its distinct profile. It solidified the GMT-Master's design language, which would influence subsequent generations.
This reference features a 40mm case, available in stainless steel, yellow gold, or a two-tone combination of steel and yellow gold. It is powered by the automatic Caliber 1575, a chronometer-certified movement known for its reliability and a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal and offers a water resistance of 50 meters, suitable for everyday wear. The bidirectional rotating bezel, typically with an aluminum insert, displays a 24-hour scale.
For collectors, the 1675 is highly sought after due to its long production period and the resulting variety of configurations, including different dial types (gilt, matte), hand styles, and bezel colors (Pepsi, all-red, all-black). Its four-digit reference number and acrylic crystal are key characteristics that define it as a vintage Rolex. The reference appeals to those interested in the historical development of the GMT-Master line and the nuances of vintage watch collecting.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 1575
- Case
- Yellow Gold
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 50m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 16700
The GMT-Master reference 16700 was introduced as a transitional model, serving as a more traditional alternative to the then-new GMT-Master II reference 16710. It maintained the original GMT-Master functionality, allowing for the tracking of two time zones simultaneously through its independent 24-hour hand linked to the main hour hand. This reference represents the final iteration of the original GMT-Master line, preceding the full transition to the GMT-Master II architecture. It was produced concurrently with the early GMT-Master II models, offering a choice for collectors who preferred the simpler GMT mechanism.
This reference features a 40mm stainless steel case, characteristic of many Rolex professional models of its era. It is powered by the automatic Caliber 3175, which provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, enhancing its durability and scratch resistance, and offers a water resistance of 100 meters. The bidirectional rotating 24-hour bezel, often seen with a "Pepsi" (blue and red) or "Coke" (black and red) insert, allows for the tracking of a second time zone.
For collectors, the 16700 holds significance as the last of the true GMT-Master series, distinct from the GMT-Master II's independently adjustable 24-hour hand. Its production period, spanning from the late 1980s to the late 1990s, places it at an interesting juncture in Rolex's history. It appeals to those who appreciate the classic GMT-Master design and functionality, often sought after for its robust construction and the availability of various bezel insert options.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 3175
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 100m
- Crystal
- Sapphire crystal
