Vintage
Amanico's "Pussy Galore Festival" is a comprehensive visual guide to the iconic Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 6542, a reference famously worn by Honor Blackman's character in "Goldfinger." This multi-part series meticulously documents various examples of the 6542, highlighting key characteristics and variations that are crucial for collectors and enthusiasts.
The GMT Master reference 6542 was introduced in 1955 as a specialized tool watch for pilots. It is notable for its dual time zone complication, achieved through a rotating 24-hour bezel and an independently adjustable 24-hour hand. This reference marks the initial iteration of the GMT Master line, establishing the core functionality and aesthetic that would define subsequent models. Its development addressed the need for a watch capable of displaying multiple time zones simultaneously, a requirement that emerged with the advent of intercontinental air travel.
The 6542 features a 38mm stainless steel case, housing the automatic caliber 1036. This movement provides a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal and offers a water resistance of 50 meters. Early examples of the 6542 are distinguished by a Bakelite bezel insert, which was later replaced by an aluminum insert due to durability concerns. The dial is typically black, often featuring gilt printing on early examples.
This reference holds significance for collectors as the foundational model of the GMT Master series. Its distinct characteristics, particularly the early Bakelite bezels and specific dial configurations, are key points of interest. The 6542 represents the original design intent for a pilot's GMT watch, making it a reference point for understanding the evolution of the model line. Variants exist with different bezel materials and dial details, contributing to its collectibility.
Part Two: 6542 II 1959. The insert is in aluminium, but the dial is good ( Swiss ), and the movement is the Cal 1030. A lovely specimen, and for once, I find that the aluminium insert works very well, here.
Part Three: 6542 III 1958. After market insert, Swiss Dial, Cal 1030, another nice specimen.
Part Four: 6542 IV 1956. Here we have an aftermarket bakelite bezel, a service dial from the Sixties ( OCC ) with a superb patina and some gilt almost orange writings, and a very nice case.
Part Five: 6542 IV 1956 A gorgeous 6542 from the 4th Quartal of 1956, with a superb dial, exclamation dot, a rather rare feature on this reference, original bakelite insert, and a nice case. Cal 1030 inside. One of the nicest I've ever seen. Enjoy the pictures!
Part Six: The final Bouquet... 1/ 6542 III 58 SCOC Service Dial from the 70ies ( the dial, not the watch, of course! ) 2/ 6542 IV 1957, complete: 3/ 6542 II 58, correct Swiss Dial, wrong 24 hours hand: 4/ 6542 from '56 or '57, Swiss Dial, lovely white second hand. ( Picture to be credited to Jacek ) 5/ 6542 ( year and quartal ignored ) with a OCC service dial from the Sixties ( Credit picture: SUB GMT ) 6/ 6542 IV 1955 " Red ". ( Credit picture John Goldenberg, who I have to thank to have sent i
A master work documenting all these beauties that one don't come across every day! a real reference guide! Thanks! Matt
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