The Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 6542 is an iconic tool watch that was commissioned by Pan Am in the 1950s to help their pilots track multiple time zones. The original Ref. 6542, the most collectible of the Rolex GMT models, was fitted with a two-tone bakelite (acrylic bezel) that featured radium coated numerals.
These bezels were brittle in nature and were replaced aluminium-insert versions during routine service. Also concerns around the use of radium meant Rolex stopped production of bakelite bezels very quickly.
A Ref. 6542 with a bakelite bezel was famously seen on the wrist of Honor Blackman’s character Pussy Galore in the 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger. Today, spotting a Ref. 6542 with an original bakelite bezel is a rare occurrence indeed and it remains a much sought-after model among vintage Rolex collectors.
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CASE NUMBER: 212’808, MOVEMENT NUMBER: N694’150ROLEX, GMT-MASTER REF. 6542 ‘BAKELITE’, A RARE STEEL AUTOMATIC TWO TIME WRISTWATCH 估价: USD 100,000 - 150,000
Please note: Condition reports are prepared by the department as a service to our clients. Watches have not been tested for their accuracy. Please refer to the condition report images, kindly contact a specialist in order to receive additional images of the watch if required.
OVERALL CONDITION: The watch is appealing. It has a good condition and good proportion for its age.
CASE: The case is in good condition for its age. The bezel is cracked at 18 and 22 and well as with hairlines in other places. The case with good proportions, lugs are well shaped and balanced. The case back with light surface marks. The inside caseback stamped 6542 and IV56
DIAL: The gilt dial is nice, clean and original. It has developed a strong patina. Part of the index at 6 has lost material.
The luminous index and hands react when exposed to UV light.
MOVEMENT: The movement is nice clean and original.
BUCKLE: The Rolex folding buckle is in good but polished condition. Stamped 4 62
BRACELET: The steel expendable riveted bracelet is in good condition.
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拍品 85拍卖编号 21092
CASE NUMBER: 212’808, MOVEMENT NUMBER: N694’150ROLEX, GMT-MASTER REF. 6542 ‘BAKELITE’, A RARE STEEL AUTOMATIC TWO TIME WRISTWATCH 估价: USD 100,000 - 150,000