Rolex. A fine and rare 18K gold automatic dual time wristwatch with sweep centre seconds, date, bracelet and transitional case without crown guards

The present watch is an exceedingly rare hybrid version of the celebrated GMT-Master reference 1675, combining elements of the late 50s reference 6542 series, most notably the missing crown guards, the luminous dauphine hands and the small tip on the 24 hour hand, and the newly introduced reference 1675 with the matte brown so-called "bicchierini" dial and the metal insert to the bezel.

It is very interesting to note that the present example comes in unmolested condition, still retaining what is most likely its original bracelet, stamped 4-63 on the clasp, and that is smoothly rubbed, all in harmony with the case. Moreover, both the clasp and the case were stamped with the French importation hallmarks showing that the watch was imported in France as a whole. Lastly, the dial is from the period as well, right before the "T Swiss T" was introduced.

For an example of a similar reference 1675 "hybrid" in gold, case no. 996'195, see 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, p. 192. Another "hybrid" ref. 1675 in gold was sold in this sale room on 10 May 2010 Geneva, lot 267.