Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Monaco, Dec 12, 2025

LOT 140

ROLEX, SWITZERLAND, REF. 1675, GMT-MASTER CHAPTER RING TROPICAL

EUR 25,000 - 45,000

CHF 23,300 - 41,900 / HKD 226,000 - 408,000 / USD 29,000 - 53,000 / JPY 4,530,000 - 8,150,000

An exceptional and rare rolex gmt-master reference 1675, featuring a beautiful tropical chapter ring dial that has aged to a rich and even chocolate tone, the glossy surface shows an attractive “spider” pattern, the result of natural aging of the original lacquer, the luminous hour markers and matching hands are in radium, maintaining their warm vintage hue


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 3-6

Good

Slightly oxidized

Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 2-6-01

Very good

Slightly oxidized

HANDS Original

Brand Rolex, Switzerland

Model GMT-MASTER CHAPTER RING TROPICAL

Reference 1675

Year 1960

Movement No. 76196

Case No. 304436

Bracelet Stainless steel Rolex riveted bracelet with deployant clasp, approx overall length 190 mm

Diameter 39

Caliber 1560, 25 jewels double butterfly rotor

Signature dial, case and movement

Notes

This early and remarkably well-preserved Rolex GMT-Master reference 1675 represents one of the most desirable configurations of the model’s first generation. Featuring a stunning “Tropical Chemin de Fer” dial, the glossy black surface has aged to a deep and even chocolate-brown tone, enhanced by the delicate “Spider” pattern formed naturally over time as the lacquer gently cracked and aged. This unique visual texture gives the watch an unmistakable and captivating presence under light.

The minute track “Chemin de Fer” configuration and radium luminous material clearly identify this dial as belonging to the earliest batch of reference 1675 production. The luminous hour plots and matching hands have aged consistently, developing a warm and appealing patina.

The stainless steel case remains strong, with well-defined lugs, showing honest wear consistent with its age. The inside caseback engraved 1.60 confirms an early 1960 production date, while the movement is fitted with the calibre 1560, featuring the distinctive “double butterfly” rotor. The movement is clean and fully functional.

Early examples such as this one combining radium luminous material, tropical spider lacquer dial, and transitional movement architecture are among the most coveted GMT-Masters by seasoned Rolex collectors. Each tropical dial is unique, and the present example stands out for its uniform tone, well-preserved printing, and overall originality.

A rare and visually striking early GMT-Master, this reference 1675 “Tropical chapter ring” embodies the charm and warmth that only time and nature can create an exceptional opportunity for the discerning collector.

Provenance

Property of a french gentleman