Rolex
GMT-Master Pepsi Stainless Steel 6542

Our Opinion

Offered here is a stunning example of the Rolex GMT with ‘PCG’ Pointed Crown Guards case, gloss dial with chapter ring, single ‘SWISS’ at 6 o’clock and Gilt Writing reference 6542 manufactured circa 1958.
This Rolex GMT Master ‘Pan Am’ reference 6542, is the watchmaking embodiment of world travelling in the 1950s. The watch was made for the pilots of Pan American Airlines due to popular demand, giving a new and legible way to set and track time zones, by simply turning the GMT bezel. The blue and red colours were chosen to indicate night and daylight hours respectively, and this bezel colourway appropriately gained itself the affectation of the ‘Pepsi bezel.’

This example is in excellent overall condition with signs of careful servicing and detailing on the case, along with a replacement bezel insert that has taken on a beautiful, faded appearance.

The 6542 was launched in 1956 and was only produced until 1959 when the watch was updated as the new reference 1675. All models that were sold during those three years had a Bakelite bezel, with glowing radium numerals. These Bakelite bezels were extremely fragile, and the majority were replaced when serviced by Rolex with the more durable and safer aluminium insert you see in this example.

The dial is in excellent condition along with the hour markers and hands being very clear and matching nicely. The date wheel is correct having open 6s’ and 9s’ along with the alternate date colours.

The appropriate but slightly later type of Rolex riveted expandable bracelet has been fitted, reference 6636 with 80 EL (end links).

This stunning vintage GMT 6542 is accompanied by its Rolex period correct box.