Rolex GMT-Master 6542 (1959)

Some objects don’t just witness history—they help write it. The Rolex GMT-Master reference 6542, first introduced in 1954 and here presented in a rare 1959 version, is much more than a timepiece. It is the origin of one of Rolex’s most iconic lines, a masterpiece of technical ingenuity, aviation history, and cinematic prestige.

From Pan-Am to James Bond: The Watch That Soared

The 6542 was developed following a request from Pan American World Airways, which needed a tool watch for pilots flying long-haul routes across time zones. Rolex’s solution? A 24-hour bidirectional bezel—half red, half blue to distinguish day and night—and a red-arrow GMT hand to track a second time zone at a glance.

It was a functional breakthrough with a bold visual identity. But legend status came in 1959, when the 6542 appeared on the wrist of Pussy Galore in the James Bond film “Goldfinger”, making it the first Rolex to ever appear in a Bond movie.

The Bakelite Bezel: Radioactive and Ultra-Rare

What sets the early 6542 apart is its original bakelite bezel, a transparent plastic material infused with radioactive radium numerals for night visibility. These bezels were short-lived due to safety concerns, and most were replaced with metal versions in subsequent years.

Finding a 6542 with its original, still radioactive bakelite bezel intact is nearly impossible today. This example retains it—along with its original box, chronometer certificate, warranty, and period invoice. A true full set, making it a collector’s dream.

Market Value: Where Authenticity Means Everything

In today’s market, altered or incomplete 6542 models are priced between €15,000 and €45,000. But fully original specimens, especially those with untouched bakelite bezels and complete provenance, have exceeded €100,000, with some surpassing €200,000 at international auctions.

This makes the watch not only a technical marvel but also a blue-chip asset in the world of vintage watch collecting.