Vintage
Amanico delves into the nuanced world of Rolex GMT-Master 1675 Underline dials, distinguishing between three distinct versions. His detailed analysis, complete with illustrative examples, highlights the subtle yet significant variations that captivate vintage Rolex collectors. This post serves as an essential guide for understanding the rarity and characteristics of these highly sought-after dials.
When we speak about GMT underline dial, there is not only one, but three different versions.
1/ The Chapter Ring:
One from 1960:
One from 1963:
2/ The non Chapter Ring: Swiss only, deep black, hard to find in nice condition, as most of the dials I've seen came wit spots, bubbles and so on...
Credit picture: Only Vintage Watches ( I think ).
3/ The Non Chapter Ring " Double Swiss ". At 6 o clock you will notice one Swiss mention above the other. Hence the nickname " Double Swiss ".
Easier to see on this picture:
( Credit pictures: Andy Shear ).
As you can see, the chapter ring and the double swiss have centered luminous indexes, while the Swiss only has luminous indexes which touch the minute ring.
The Double Swiss has bigger luminous indexes than the Chapter Ring.
All is a matter of condition, as always, but there is a hierarchy among GMT underline dials. At equal condition, the more sought after is the Double Swiss, then the non chapter ring Swiss only, and the Chapter ring.
It seems that the " Underline " detail came as early as 1960, and ended in late 1963.
What does this detail mean, that is an endless debate, and I have no fixed nor clear opinion here. As for the Exclamation Dot as 6 o clock.
Do we really need to explain all the mysteries, or isn't it better to keep a part of untouched mystery?
I must say that I have a certain fascination for the Double Swiss, because of its specificity: I love the big round and centered luminous indexes.
But I would be very happy with any of them.
Best,
Nicolas
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.
Thank you dear Torquemada for this delightful pictorial As a detail I love exclamation very much what I can't say about underline From one that you presented first one looks best for me 1960 chapter ring Yours D
But I would not be objective to say that I don't like it! ;) Best, Damjan, and thanks for your input. Nicolic.
replacement dial for 6542 with underline ( still lacquered and printed SWISS only with the typical clear gold nuance that looks " silver " ). this 6542 dial version is the last one signed " SWISS " only and can be defined as mk 5. by the way in my opinion underline arrives around 1962 and stops at the beginning of 1964. in some watches ( as in this case ) underline dials are in fact later replacements of the pristine ones.
First, I never saw a 6542 underline, but why not, since there are some 6542 Exclamation Dot. Then, as for the period, I saw several " - " from 1960, several quartals. And now that you wrote it, some early 1964 ones... A few. When were the " - " 6542 dials released? Do you happen to know? Best, Amico. Nicolas.
Do you know when these services dials were introduced, are they from the 60's or later and just done in the style of the earlier 50's/60's dials? Are the hands still original to the watches you have seen with these service dials? Are these dials Radium? If these service dials are from the 60's is there any pattern you may have noticed regarding the watches the service replacement underline dials are in. Are they certain years or within a serial number range or just random replacement of dials du
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