OVERVIEW

Here we have an example of one the the last galvanic gilt dial GMT 1675s before Rolex switched to the matte dial in 1967. As Rolex (and other brands as well) started to significantly ramp up and streamline their production, the galvanic gilt process of printing dials became too costly and time consuming which is why no one continues to do it now.

The same thing that makes a gilt dial so incredible is the same thing that makes finding one in excellent condition so difficult. The mirror like surface on these deep black dials are extremely susceptible to wear… whether it’s from the tiniest example of watchmaker negligence, improper handling or storage, moisture ingress, or environmental factors like heat, sunlight, or dust from the lume can make even the slightest imperfections stand out like a lighthouse at night. As charming as some imperfections might be, a perfectly glossy gilt dial devoid of blemishes in the sunlight is one of the most satisfying things you can experience in vintage watches. A picture or video still doesn’t do it justice.

CONDITION NOTES

CASE: Sharp, even & thick. Geometry and consistency of wear shows it’s never been recut or refinished. Some marks from regular use and looks like it was worn by someone who didn’t baby it like we baby watches now. Also has a really attractive and vibrant blue and strawberry bezel insert.

DIAL: Absolutely stunning and fully glossy galvanic gilt dial with untouched lume plots. Many times the dial on these have a bit of deterioration of the lacquer toward the edges or around the markers but this one has none of that. Feel free to ask me for a video in the daylight.

HANDS: Excellent original flat gilt handset with matching patina and original lume. And of course, correct tiny GMT hand.

MOVEMENT: Super clean and running like a brand new watch.

More photos to come.