Brand: ROLEX Model Name: GMT MASTER Reference: 6542 Compl...

Estimate

£18,000 - £25,000

Brand: ROLEX
Model Name: GMT MASTER
Reference: 6542
Complication: GMT
Movement: Automatic
Year: 1959
Dial colour: Gloss-Gilt Dial with Radium Lume, OCC text
Dial features: Tropic dial with a rich faded patina, Gilt text, lollipop seconds hand and red GMT hand
Bezel: Original Bakelite Bezel
Case size: 38mm
Case material: Stainless Steel
Inner case back: Inner case back signed and numbered 6542 / III.59
Movement cal: Rolex 1066
Movement jewel: 26
Movement features: Butterfly movement
Bracelet or strap: Later Nato Strap
Auctioneer's notes: A fine and rare reference, this 6542 is an extremely interesting watch, produced for approximately 5 years between 1955-1960. The Bakelite bezel is the defining feature and exceedingly rare to find as they were recalled by Rolex due to concerns over the radioactivity of the bezels and secondly as the bezels were prone to cracking and replacement bezels were common. This example comes with an excellent condition bezel and is enhanced by its beautiful tropic dial
Condition report: Currently running, lume believed to be replaced with tritium during the recall by Rolex.