Bill's captivating post from 2012 showcases the elusive Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 with a 'Blue Berry' insert, offering a rare glimpse into a highly coveted vintage piece. This article highlights the unique characteristics of this specific reference, drawing on community insights regarding its distinct bezel, all-red GMT hand, and overall collector appeal.
With all the talk of the mystery of the Blue insert I took the opportunity to photograph one out in the wild. It is very interesting how the texture of the paint is very interesting. Unlike the typical anodized inserts these really have an interesting feel. It is only a company like Rolex that could produce this type of precision. If you have a chance to compare you will see this clearly. the tightness between the numbers and edges of the bezel so clean.
Anyhow until we find out all the history enjoy the look of these great collector piece with the very nice all red hand. I previously mentioned the gilt 4 line 5512 was an item for the refined collector. This one is for the determined collector.
Enjoy.
Bill
Rolex GMT 1675 Blue Insert
The Rolex 1675 with all red hand and Blue insert
Moody GMT
Feeling very blue GMT
About the Rolex GMT Ref. 1675
The GMT-Master reference 1675 is a significant model in the brand's history, representing an evolution from earlier GMT-Master references. It was produced for an extended period, allowing for numerous dial, bezel, and hand variations throughout its production run. This reference is notable for its introduction of crown guards, enhancing the watch's robustness and contributing to its distinct profile. It solidified the GMT-Master's design language, which would influence subsequent generations.
This reference features a 40mm case, available in stainless steel, yellow gold, or a two-tone combination of steel and yellow gold. It is powered by the automatic Caliber 1575, a chronometer-certified movement known for its reliability and a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal and offers a water resistance of 50 meters, suitable for everyday wear. The bidirectional rotating bezel, typically with an aluminum insert, displays a 24-hour scale.
For collectors, the 1675 is highly sought after due to its long production period and the resulting variety of configurations, including different dial types (gilt, matte), hand styles, and bezel colors (Pepsi, all-red, all-black). Its four-digit reference number and acrylic crystal are key characteristics that define it as a vintage Rolex. The reference appeals to those interested in the historical development of the GMT-Master line and the nuances of vintage watch collecting.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 1575
- Case
- Yellow Gold
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 50m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512
Rolex Submariner Reference 5512
The Submariner reference 5512 represents Rolex's no-date variant within the Submariner series. Distinguished by its clean dial layout without date complication, this reference was produced from 1962 to 1989, spanning nearly three decades of manufacturing.
The 40mm stainless steel case houses either caliber 1560 or 1570 automatic movements, providing 42-48 hours of power reserve. The watch features a black dial, unidirectional rotating bezel with aluminum insert, and acrylic crystal. Water resistance extends to 200 meters, with the watch fitted to a stainless steel bracelet.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking the fundamental Submariner aesthetic without date functionality. The extended production period and dual caliber usage create multiple variations within the 5512 designation. The no-date configuration offers symmetrical dial proportions that attract purists within the collecting community.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 1560/1570
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Rolex Ref. 5512Gilt
The Rolex Submariner reference 5512 Gilt is a notable variant within the Submariner lineage, produced during a transitional period for the model. It is distinguished by its gilt dial, characterized by gold-colored text and minute track, which contrasts with the matte dials that would become standard later. This reference was positioned as a professional dive watch, offering enhanced water resistance and a chronometer-certified movement, setting it apart from its non-chronometer sibling, the reference 5513. Its production spanned a specific window in the mid-1960s, making it a distinct example of early Submariner development.
This reference typically features a stainless steel Oyster case, measuring approximately 40mm in diameter. The movement housed within is a chronometer-certified automatic caliber, often the Rolex Caliber 1530 or later the Caliber 1560 or 1570, providing a power reserve of around 42 to 48 hours. The crystal is made of plexiglass, a characteristic common to vintage Rolex sports watches. The watch was designed for water resistance suitable for professional use, though specific depth ratings varied over its production.
For collectors, the reference 5512 Gilt is highly sought after due to its rarity and the aesthetic appeal of its gilt dial. The presence of four lines of text on the dial, indicating chronometer certification, further distinguishes it from other Submariner references of the era. Its appeal lies in representing a specific evolutionary stage of the Submariner, bridging earlier designs with later, more standardized versions. Variants within this reference can include different dial types, such as those with exclamation points or underline details, which further influence collector interest.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 1530, 1560, 1570
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Black (Gilt)
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Plexiglass
About the Rolex Rolex 5512 Gilt Ref. 5512 Gilt
Rolex 5512 Gilt
The Rolex 5512 Gilt represents a specific variant within the 5512 reference range, distinguished by its gilt dial treatment. Produced from 1959 to 1977, this reference spans nearly two decades of continuous manufacturing, reflecting its position as an established model within Rolex's catalog during this period.
The watch features a 40mm stainless steel case fitted with an acrylic crystal and unidirectional rotating aluminum bezel insert. The black dial incorporates gilt detailing that gives this variant its designation. Movement options include either the Cal. 1560 or Cal. 1570 automatic calibers, providing 48 hours of power reserve. Water resistance extends to 200 meters, with the case paired to an Oyster bracelet.
This reference appeals to collectors focused on vintage Rolex pieces from the 1960s and 1970s production era. The gilt dial variant offers a specific aesthetic within the 5512 range, attracting those seeking examples with this particular dial treatment. The extended production period provides collectors with various sub-variants and evolutionary details across the manufacturing span.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal.1560/1570
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- black
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic