Rolex GMT Master 'Pepsi' 40mm 16750 1981

The Rolex GMT-Master 16750 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? 

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—ideal for those who want a classic look without having to baby their watch every time it rains.

The Backstory—Because Every Watch Needs One

The GMT-Master was first developed in the 1950s as part of a partnership with Pan American Airways. Back then, long-haul flights were still a novelty, and pilots needed a way to track two time zones—home and destination—without relying on mental maths. The GMT-Master solved the problem with its rotating 24-hour bezel and extra hour hand, and the rest is history.

By the time the 16750 came along, Rolex had figured out that travellers wanted the same functionality but with a few added conveniences. Enter the Calibre 3075 movement, which brought the long-overdue quickset date function. No more spinning the hands around like a hamster wheel just to set the date. The Calibre 3075 also upped the beat rate to 28,800 vibrations per hour, giving the seconds hand that buttery-smooth sweep and improving accuracy—because nobody wants to land in Paris and realise their watch thinks it’s still in Sydney.

Looks That Haven’t Aged a Day

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 aluminium bezel insert is another standout feature. Unlike modern ceramic bezels that stubbornly refuse to age, these aluminium inserts develop character—fading into rich shades of blue and red (or black, if you’re feeling mysterious). It’s the kind of patina that gets vintage collectors more excited than a seagull at a chip shop.

A Short but Sweet Production Run

The 16750 was produced until 1988, when it was replaced by the GMT-Master II. The newer model introduced the independently adjustable hour hand, making it even easier to track multiple time zones. But the 16750 occupies a sweet spot—it’s modern enough to wear daily but vintage enough to feel special. Think of it as the last of the old-school GMT-Masters before things got too complicated…like the last air-cooled Porsche.

What’s the Big Deal Today?

Collectors love the 16750 for its heritage. It’s rugged, reliable, and still has that unmistakable GMT-Master look. Examples in good condition, particularly those with the matte dial, are in high demand—and priced accordingly.

Now for the fun part—we’ve got one of each in stock right now. That’s right, a matte dial and a glossy dial, both ready to find a new home. Whether you’re team vintage matte or team glossy modern, you can’t go wrong. But fair warning—if you wait too long, one (or both) will be gone faster than the last sausage roll at a Bunnings barbecue.

• Case in great condition, light hairlines visible with well defined lugs. 
• Bracelet has some stretch as to be expected with age. 

• Near flawless matte dial 
• Hands lightly oxidised with matching patina