Rolex “Gilt” GMT-Master

Description

Up for grabs is a beautiful example of a Rolex GMT-Master with a glossy gilt dial, circa 1965 (1.3m serial). This example is the last gilt dial Rolex produced before transitioning to the matte dial in/around 1967.  The gilt dials are adorned for their gold inlay, and glossy/mirror-like lacquer finish.

The present Rolex GMT-Master is in great vintage condition.  The case is unpolished, with sharp lines and beautifully beveled edges.  The dial is beautiful – still very glossy, with a true factory mirror-like finish, and no major wear, chips, or major cracks to the lacquer (there is some very fine “spidering” close to the 2 and 10 o’clock plots, which is normal for these early lacquered dials).  The original tritium lume is present on the dial and hands, aged to a golden puffy yellow color; the hands show some light staining to the lume. The original and period-correct “Pepsi” bezel insert is in great condition, with a nice, lightly faded color.

The watch comes equipped on a Rolex C&I rivet 7206 bracelet, and is dated to 1972.  The bracelet has 11 full links and no stretch.