We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
This vintage Rolex GMT Master exemplifies horological excellence with its 40mm stainless steel case, original faded oval top bezel, and classic GMT function. In very good condition, this beautifully preserved 1969 timepiece features an original folded stainless steel bracelet and mint condition original matte Mark I Long E dial, maintaining its luxurious appeal while showing only gentle signs of wear. Whether you're attending business meetings, travelling across time zones, or seeking a sophisticated everyday timepiece, this classic GMT Master brings authentic Rolex refinement to any ensemble while offering the complete collector's experience with its full set including original box and certificates.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the Rolex GMT‑Master Ref 1675 (1969)? A: It’s an iconic, Swiss‑made travel watch featuring a 40mm stainless steel Oyster case, automatic movement, a 24‑hour GMT hand and a bidirectional rotating bezel. This example has its original folded stainless steel bracelet (clasp date coded 2nd quarter 1968), a mint condition matte Mark I “Long E” dial, and an attractively faded, period‑correct “oval‑top” fat‑font bezel insert.
Q: How does the GMT function work, and can I set the GMT hand independently on a 1675? A: On the 1675 the 24‑hour hand is linked to the hour hand (it isn’t independently adjustable). To read a second time zone, set the watch to your home time, then rotate the bezel to the required hour offset; the 24‑hour hand reads against the bezel while the main hands show local time. You can read a third time zone temporarily by further rotating the bezel. Independent GMT hand setting was introduced later on GMT‑Master II models.
Q: How do I set the time and date on this vintage model? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: wind the movement (about 20–40 turns if it has stopped). Position 2: set the time. The date advances by rolling the hands past midnight (the 1675 does not have a quickset date). Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly to maintain water resistance.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I swim with it? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres, but water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless the gaskets have been replaced and the watch tested by a qualified watchmaker. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any exposure to moisture.
Q: Which movement does the 1675 use, and does it have hacking seconds? A: Most 1675s house the automatic Rolex Calibre 1575 (GMT variant), renowned for robustness. Many examples from 1969 are non‑hacking (the seconds hand does not stop when the crown is pulled); hacking became more common from around 1971. We can confirm the exact behaviour on this watch on request. A routine service every 5–10 years is generally recommended.
Q: What crystal and bezel does this watch have? A: The 1675 typically features an acrylic crystal with the Cyclops date magnifier. Acrylic can pick up fine marks but is easily polished; avoid abrasive cleaners and solvents. The bezel insert on this piece is an original “oval‑top” fat‑font style with attractive vintage fade. To preserve the colours, keep the watch away from prolonged UV exposure, chemicals and high heat.
Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the bracelet be adjusted? A: The bracelet is at approximately full length (around 22cm), suiting medium to larger wrists. We can size the bracelet prior to dispatch; additional links can often be sourced subject to availability and potential cost. The 1675 uses a 20mm lug width, so strap options are plentiful if you prefer leather or fabric.
Q: How can I verify the exact reference and year of production? A: The reference number (1675) is stamped between the lugs at 12 o’clock and the serial number at 6 o’clock (bracelet removal is required). This watch’s serial 1902331 indicates production around 1968–1969, and the bracelet clasp code confirms 2nd quarter 1968. We’re happy to share detailed photos or verify these details for you.
Q: What is included, and do you guarantee authenticity? A: Please check the Accessories section of the listing; this watch is delivered with Box and Outer Box. A Retro Tale professionally authenticates every item and provides a 12‑month mechanical guarantee, insured DHL delivery, and a 14‑day return policy.
Q: Any care tips for daily wear? A: Keep the watch away from strong magnets, moisture and harsh chemicals; wipe with a soft microfibre cloth after use. Avoid heavy polishing to preserve crisp case lines and originality. If you notice significant timekeeping changes or condensation under the crystal, stop wearing the watch and contact us for advice.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
We ship all orders from Sweden, and when importing to Canada your order may be subject to import duties and sales tax, which will be charged to you upon delivery by the shipping carrier.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Vintage Rolex GMT Master 40mm Ref 1675 1969 Watch - A Retro Tale
Please note that all return shipments to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Retain your shipping receipt and tracking number until the return is completed and your refund is processed. Return shipping costs will be covered by A Retro Tale, and we will provide you with a prepaid return label.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
- Rolex GMT Master 40mm Ref 1675 1969
- GMT Master Ref 175
- Stainless Steel RCG Case 40mm
- Original Folded Stainless Steel Bracelet, Clasp Date Coded 2nd Quarter 1968
- Automatic Movement
- GMT Function
- Original Attractively Faded Oval Top Bezel
- Mint Condition Original Matte Mark I Long E Dial
- Original Hands
- Full Length Bracelet Length Aprox 22cm
