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Lot Essay
The present GMT-Master reference 1675 is an exceedingly rare example featuring the United Arab Emirates (UAE) crest and the Arabic text translated as “Ministry of Defense”. Earlier GMT-Master examples had the signature of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The present watch is an extremely rare variation featuring an extremely rare “radial dial” configuration where the markers are placed closer to the center of the dial and the bottom of the crest touching the 6 o’clock rectangle lume plot.
Noteworthy on the dial is the "Quraysh Hawk", printed in different 'padded layers' that create a tri-dimensional effect. At the center of the hawk, the symbol of the United Arab Emirates, is a polychrome enamel Dhow or Arabian sailboat, which is replaced today by the UAE federation flag.
Its original dial stands out by the even cream-colored tritium luminous material on the hour markers and in the hands, all enhanced by the very crisp "Quraysh Hawk" crest placed close to the center post and “Ministry of Defense” text in Arabic. The case is amazingly preserved in original and unpolished condition with full beveled edges to the lugs. Furthermore, the “Pepsi” red and blue bezel insert with bold gold numerals has faded uniformly and beautifully.
Of superb overall appeal and rarity, the present reference 1675 is a rare find for the aficionado of rare and military Rolex sports watches, particularly in this original condition and with spectacular radial dial configuration.
The present watch is an extremely rare variation featuring an extremely rare “radial dial” configuration where the markers are placed closer to the center of the dial and the bottom of the crest touching the 6 o’clock rectangle lume plot.
Noteworthy on the dial is the "Quraysh Hawk", printed in different 'padded layers' that create a tri-dimensional effect. At the center of the hawk, the symbol of the United Arab Emirates, is a polychrome enamel Dhow or Arabian sailboat, which is replaced today by the UAE federation flag.
Its original dial stands out by the even cream-colored tritium luminous material on the hour markers and in the hands, all enhanced by the very crisp "Quraysh Hawk" crest placed close to the center post and “Ministry of Defense” text in Arabic. The case is amazingly preserved in original and unpolished condition with full beveled edges to the lugs. Furthermore, the “Pepsi” red and blue bezel insert with bold gold numerals has faded uniformly and beautifully.
Of superb overall appeal and rarity, the present reference 1675 is a rare find for the aficionado of rare and military Rolex sports watches, particularly in this original condition and with spectacular radial dial configuration.