1981 Rolex Two Tone GMT “Root Beer” (Ref. 16753)

The Rolex GMT is the jet-setting icon of the Rolex Sports watch family. Like the Rolex Submariner, the Rolex GMT is sophisticated, rugged, and versatile.

In 1954 Pan Am started using the newly designed Boeing 707 which allowed for Pan Am to fly transcontinentally and is said to have started the commercially available jet age. In the same year, Rolex received a request from Pan Am to create a technical pilots watch which indicated two time zones simultaneously that could be issued by the airline to their crews on long-haul transcontinental international flights.

GMT or UTC stands for Greenwich Mean Time or Coordinated Universal Time which is the primary time standard by which the world regulates clocks and time. GMT or UTC is the time zone that is required for all aviation planning, weather forecasts, schedules and Other paperwork.

The original Rolex GMT Master has a fourth 24-hour hand directly displaying the same time zone as the standard 12-hour hand but on a 24-hour scale. This GMT hand enabled the crews to set the watch to GMT or anOther time zone, and, using the rotatable 24-hour scale bezel, set to the correct offset thus displaying a second-time-zone on the 24-hour scale.

The Rolex Ref. 16753 was first introduced in 1979 and was in production until 1988. The main difference between the Rolex GMT ref Ref. 1675 and the 16750/3 was the introduction of the Cal. 3075 movement which allowed for instantaneous Date advancement also known as “quick set”

This specific 1979 Rolex GMT Master Ref. 16753 is jaw dropping… The flawless case paired with the deep metallic red-orange dial and butterscotch like insert is absolutely eye catching. This specific example would make a great daily driver for the man always on the go and would make a great addition to an existing collection with a twist!

CASE & Bracelet

The case of this 1981 Ref. 16753 is sharp and in original Unpolished condition. The bevels on the lugs are still clearly visible and is flawless. The case back even retains the factory brushed finish. The “Root Beer” insert has achieved a wonderful butterscotch like patina and is in handsome flawless condition. The 18k YG bezel is free of any dents or dings and matches the overall feel and condition of the watch. The watch will be supplied on a Horween Shell Cordovan Vintage Style strap.

DIAL & HANDS