3 Vintage Rolex GMT Master 1675 and 16750 Watches

Vintage Rolex GMT Master: What's your favourite?

With an exceptional portfolio of ‘Pepsi’ Rolex GMT-Masters now available on the Crown Vintage website, we’re taking a deep dive into three of these three iconic models. Kicking things off is the legendary Rolex GMT-Master 1675—a timepiece that requires no introduction.

First introduced in 1959, the 1675 became a cornerstone of the Rolex brand and remains one of the most sought-after vintage Rolex models to this day. Born out of a collaboration with Pan Am Airlines, the GMT-Master was designed to help pilots track multiple time zones, but it didn’t take long before it became a favourite of travellers, collectors, and even astronauts. That’s right, the GMT-Master 1675 shares some serious aviation history.

With its 40mm case, the 1675 is just the right size to feel solid on the wrist without being overwhelming. The rotating 24-hour iconic red and blue “Pepsi” bezel is one of the key design elements that has made the watch instantly recognisable. What really makes the GMT-Master 1675 stand out is its place in history. This is a watch that was worn by real-life explorers—whether they were flying planes, crossing oceans, or heading to space. It was the ultimate tool watch, and the ultimate cool watch. Yes, worn by ‘Pussy Galore’ in the James Bond movie Goldfinger.

Under the hood, this GMT Master from 1971 is powered by the upgraded (from the 1570) calibre 1575, with the hacking function. 

As Rolex continued to improve the GMT-Master, the 1675 remained in production for over two decades, making it a true staple of the brand. Today, the 1675 is highly coveted by collectors, especially those with a passion for vintage Rolex watches. The models with the "Pepsi" bezel, in particular, are especially prized, with their rich history and colourful design making them stand out in any collection.

It’s a watch that’s as fun to learn about as it is to own, with every detail steeped in the kind of legacy that only a Rolex can provide. Often imitated, but never duplicated. This is an original. The GMT is the GMT of GMTs and the Pepsi of Pepsi’s. It’s a remarkable watch.

Next up, The Rolex GMT-Master 16750. This one is a bit of a unicorn in the vintage watch world—a transitional model that ticks all the right boxes for collectors and enthusiasts alike. And guess what? We’ve got two in stock right now, which is about as common as finding two empty exit rows on a long-haul flight. 

Released in 1981, the 16750 followed in the footsteps of earlier GMT-Masters, staying true to its roots as the go-to watch for pilots and globetrotters while sneaking in a few modern upgrades. It’s the perfect blend of vintage charm and everyday practicality.

Visually, the 16750 kept all the classic GMT-Master design cues that make it instantly recognisable. It’s got the 40mm stainless steel case, the rotating 24-hour bezel, and the iconic Mercedes hands. But here’s where it gets interesting—early models came with matte dials and painted indices, while later versions switched to glossy dials with white gold surrounds. Both are stunning, but collectors tend to obsess over the matte dial for its vintage character. We happen to like both!

The 16750 was produced until 1988, when it was replaced by the GMT-Master II. Guess what, we just happen to have a perfect GMT Master II right at this time.

Produced from 1989 to 2007, and you’ve got what many consider the sweet spot of the GMT-Master lineup. Powered by the Calibre 3185 movement and featuring the “quickset” date function, it made setting the date simple.  

The star of the show? Like all three watches, its aluminium bezel insert. Rolex eventually swapped it for ceramic, but collectors adore this vintage touch. Sure, it scratches more easily, but that just means every watch develops its own personality and a beautiful patina over time. Plus, as the last GMT-Master to feature the aluminium bezel, it’s like the last call in the boarding lounge—something you’d kick yourself for missing.

And here’s the kicker—all these watches are available now, but don’t hit snooze on it. Grab your perfect GMT Master, throw on your aviators, and start planning your next adventure—you’re ready for take-off.