ROLEX GMT-Master
« bakelite & big logo »
ref.6542
One of Rolex’s biggest icon and most popular watch among the immense Rolex universe. The tool requested by former company Pan-Am for their pilots during transatlantic flights. Not only did they need good legibility of the dial but more importantly a tool-watch able to manage another timezone. The result was so great that the rich & powerful quickly adopted it. From Fidel Castro to AirForce & NASA pilots all wore this model. Honor Blackman aka « Pussy Galore » in James Bond 007 movie « Goldfinger » sacrosancted the reference forever.
Serial: 212xxx from 1956. The bakelite radium bezel with « 18 » full on the red is matching this 1st generation of 6542. It is a real piece of art in itself and is in pristine condition with no cracks. One can appreciate the 3D of the numbers and the « hair lines » triggered by the radium.
Dial: Exceptional condition. The laquer of the dial has resisted the radium superbly. This exemple simply has a crazy glossy dial. Radium index which retracted themselves (typical for this period) are perfect and match the hands.
Case & movement: Impressive case with magnificent bevels and fat lugs. Back case 6542 from Q4 1956. Movement is extremely clean especially for a 64 years old 1030 with perfect butterfly rotor!
Bracelet: the most sought after clasp called « Big Logo / modele depose BREVETE » dated 4 59 in great condition. 58 end links.
Box & papers: Rolex presentation box.
