Rolex GMT-Master 1675 Tropical Brown Gilt Chapter Ring Dial Pointed Crown Guard Case

The Rolex GMT-Master ref. 1675 is one of the most iconic and recognisable vintage watches ever produced. Manufactured from 1959 to 1980, its 21-year production run makes it one of the longest-standing references in Rolex history, resulting in a wide array of highly collectible variations. The model achieved legendary status through its association with Pan Am pilots, and NASA astronaut Jack Swigert of the Apollo 13 mission. Presented here is an early 1960s example featuring the so-called pointed crown guard (PCG) case. The Pointed Crown Guards, often referred to by Italian collectors as “Cornino” (“little horns”), are a hallmark of the earliest GMT-Master 1675 models produced between 1959 and approximately 1964. When Rolex transitioned from the original ref. 6542—which had no crown guards—to the 1675, it experimented with case shapes. The PCG is the most sought-after case design of that period. Unlike the thicker, rounded crown guards found on later models, the PCG tapers to a sharp point, giving the watch a slimmer and more technical aesthetic. The case remains in excellent condition, retaining strong proportions. It is fitted with a slightly faded red-back “Pepsi” bezel insert, where the blue has softened to a washed, denim-like tone, while the red remains vibrant. The dial is a so-called gilt “chapter ring” version. Unlike later dials, where the text is printed on the surface, a gilt dial is created through a complex galvanic process. The dial begins as a brass plate, with the text and markings applied in clear lacquer. It is then treated so that the surrounding surface turns black, leaving the underlying brass visible—resulting in a rich, glossy, gold-toned text with remarkable depth. The “chapter ring” refers to the fine gilt circle connecting the minute markers along the outer edge of the dial. Over time, this example has developed a warm brown patina—referred to by collectors as a “tropical dial.” A highly sought-after characteristic, it gives the watch a unique warmth and character. Furthermore, the dial features smaller lume plots, typical for chapter ring versions, with correct period lume that reacts with a bright green glow under UV light—present both on the dial and the handset. The watch is fitted with a folded Jubilee bracelet, reference 6251H, with end links stamped 55 and a clasp dated 1/65. The watch has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and is ready for many years of enjoyment. For days in the sun and nights across time zones , chocolate tropical dial made for sunshine and stories yet to be written, get in touch ! Specifications: Rolex Reference 1675 GMT-Master 40mm steel pointed-crown-guard case Serial 505xxx dating to 1959 Rich glossy gilt brown tropical chapter ring dial Beautifully faded fat font insert Jubilee bracelet 6215H with 55 endlinks Fully serviced by our watchmaker One-year mechanical warranty Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping