The 6542 marked the very first GMT-Master reference produced by Rolex. Originally intended for the pilot industry with its dual time zone function, it quickly became the watch of choice amongst particularly PAN-AM pilots. Other than world travelers, the 6542 was also seen on other historically significant heads of state but it become most iconic when it was featured in the 007’s Goldfinger.

Finding a fresh to market all original 6542 Bakelite proves a seldom opportunity, and this is one of those rare moments. Most of them were recalled by Rolex to swap out its original radium components for non-radium, making it exceedingly rare to find an untouched example.

Discovered recently in Southern California, when found the crystal was totally crazed making it difficult to see what was undernearth. The watch was replaced with a NOS Tropic 115 crystal. Even with minor superficial hairlines grazing the dial, the gilt print is extraordinarily brilliant and a stunning gloss dial that has begun to turn a dark chestnut hue with an amber sunrise effect near the 5 and 6 o’clock area.

The unpolished case bears a 398,xxx serial dating it to 1958. The 6542 is most notorious for the fragility of its Bakelite insert but this example is free from any cracks or fractures adding to its real appeal and rarity. There is some lume loss on the GMT hand but the remaining radium luminous are all intact. It is paired with an original Rolex rivit bracelet, “Big Logo” clasp and 65 endlinks, a highly desirable combination often seen in the late 50’s sport models.

I don’t say this lightly but this prime example is by definition of what a textbook 6542 represents. Due to the difficult nature of finding any noteworthy Bakelite GMT, this specimen completes one of the most difficult and crucial references for any significant vintage Rolex collection.

(Item: INVDBV_13)