1984 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16750 Transitional Matte ‘Pallettoni’ dial

Being the predecessor of the infamous GMT-Master Ref. 1675, the 16750 is known as a transitional reference. Released around 1979/1980 and produced until 1988, they were aesthetically the same as the 1675 but introducing a quickset feature and re-organizing the order of the hands.

 

The early batches came with matte dials, while the lates batches were fitted with glossy dials. Also, the earlier matte dials came with hour lume plots not surrounded by metal, also called ‘Palletonni’, and were produced until about 1985. Latter glossy dials came with white gold surroundings called “Bicchierini”.

The example offered here is a transitional Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16750 with matte or ‘Palletonni” dial which dates to 1984.

 

The lovely matte dial is preserved in excellent condition and shows very light wear. It features a lovely creamy patina hue. The original hands have aged to slightly different hues.

 

The 40mm stainless steel case is in strong condition, remaining thick, and leaving visible previous signs of polishing and normal signs of wear. The blue-black ‘Pepsi’ bezel insert is also in great shape. The case back remains in the same condition as the case, and it’s correctly engraved with the reference number in the inside.

 

The original acrylic crystal has some marks that could be easily polished away.

 

The watch is running well and keeping time, although service history is unknown.

 

It comes suited on its original Rolex Oyster 78360 stainless steel bracelet with 558 end links and clasp code VC 14 that remains in great condition with little stretch and normal signs of use.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request.