Rolex GMT-Master 1675 Osyter MK4 Pumpkin Patina Brown Insert 1977 (Full-Set/Serviced)

GMT-Master 1675 Vintage Rolex – 1977 MK4 with Tropical Bezel & Original Set

Introduced in 1959 and produced until around 1980, the Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 is one of the most iconic travel watches ever made. Originally developed in collaboration with Pan Am Airways for long-haul pilots, the GMT-Master allowed wearers to track two time zones simultaneously thanks to its 24-hour hand and rotating bezel.

The Rolex GMT-Master 1675, introduced in 1959 and produced until around 1980, is one of the most iconic and enduring Rolex sports models. Originally developed in collaboration with Pan Am for its pilots, the GMT-Master features a 24-hour hand and a rotating bezel, allowing the wearer to track multiple time zones—an essential tool for aviation professionals during the golden age of intercontinental travel.

The Ref. 1675 is especially revered by collectors for its wide variety of dial variations (such as MK1 to MK5), faded bezel inserts, and its tritium lume that ages to beautiful tones like cream, yellow, or orange (often referred to as “pumpkin”). The reference underwent a long production run, giving rise to numerous desirable configurations and aesthetic evolutions, including glossy dials, matte dials, and tropical fading on bezels.

The combination of heritage, utility, and character-filled aging makes the GMT-Master 1675 one of the most collectible vintage Rolex models today.

Key Details To Consider

This Rolex GMT-Master 1675 dates to approximately 1977–78 and presents as a beautifully preserved example of one of Rolex’s most iconic references. Housed in a full steel case, the watch features sharp, thick lugs that retain what appears to be the original factory bevels and finish. While prior polishing cannot be fully ruled out, the case geometry remains well-defined and crisp.

The standout MK4 dial showcases rich “pumpkin” patina across all hour markers and matching hands, creating a warm, cohesive look. Under UV light, both the lume plots and hands still react, indicating the presence of original tritium. The dial is paired with a striking tropical bezel insert that has faded into a unique brown hue—a rare and desirable feature that complements the aged tones of the dial perfectly.

The plexiglass crystal is clear and free of major blemishes, contributing to the watch’s strong visual appeal. Fitted on a solid Oyster bracelet that remains tight and consistent with the era, this example features 12 full links and a VB-stamped clasp, corresponding to the 1977 production year.

Mechanically, the watch has been fully serviced in July 2025 and is running accurately. It has also been pressure tested to 3ATM (30m), making it suitable for daily wear if desired. All case engravings are sharp and intact, with the 5.8 million serial number clearly visible between the lugs.

This GMT-Master 1675 is accompanied by its original box and papers—an increasingly scarce pairing—making it a highly collectible set. With its characterful dial, rare bezel coloration, and documented provenance, this example stands out as a superb representation of late 1970s GMT heritage.

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