Rolex GMT-Master Reference 6542 Bakelite Bezel

The Rolex GMT-Master reference 6542 marked the first reference in what would go onto become one of the most celebrated timepieces across all manufacturers. The timepiece became an icon within the James Bond movie Goldfinger after being worn by Honor Blackman during her portrayal of "Pussy Galore". It is an unmistakable watch and it is seen as grail watches for collectors who understand the importance of the 1950s Rolex sports catalog.

This particular example is an outstanding 6542 with a spectacular dial, vivid original Bakelite bezel, and great provenance. These Bakelite bezels have a propensity for cracks and are radioactive, and as a result many were replaced with non-luminous, anodized aluminum bezels. The colors are so unique and it makes for an out of this world aesthetic.

In addition to the Bakelite bezel, the dial is very well preserved and attractive. The reference 6542 dials are often known for cracking and crazing, but this example has one of the nicest dial we have seen on any reference 6542. The GMT hand has minimal lume loss, but this is expected in a sports watch over 65 years old. The case has been lightly polished, but is very attractive and full. The watch has a 398,XXX serial dating to circa late 1958. It is 38mm in diameter (48mm lug-to-lug). It is paired on what is likely its original Swiss-made Oyster rivet bracelet with super-desirable “Big Logo” clasp and 65 end links dating to 1959.

It has been in an important private collection for a number of years. We do not know the service history, but it is running well. The watch recently passed a water resistance test of 3 bar.

To learn more about the Rolex GMT-Master, you can watch my ‘Reference Points: Understanding The Rolex GMT-Master' video and read the corresponding article. I selected this exact watch for inclusion in the Reference Points article and video, so that should tell you how I feel about the quality of this example.

PRICE: $150,000 (Item SBUXYT2999)