GMT 6542 original ?

[nuno116600]

After some advice from the experts on this forum on a 1675 I posted I am still on the look for a nice vintage GMT. I found a nice 6542 first model (around 1956) insert changed to later model but dial, hands, case are original (said the seller, a well know shop). The price is around US$26K which seem very cheep for this model. cheeper than the 1675 first model. Am I missing somthing? any advice is much appriciated.

[watchcrank]

White tritium service dial and a later bezel/insert that's not bakelite. Fuchsia insert is a plus. The big dollars are for gilt "swiss" dials with bakelite bezels. Both very expensive parts in good condition. While I like the 6542 in original condition, for that money I would buy a very nice 1675 that is totally correct rather than any watch with service dial etc. (rarity sometimes trumps that reasoning).

[Kingface66]

Dial should be a Swiss dial

[nuno116600]

Thank you, so dial is a service dial. That is why it is cheap.

[roh123]

Hands are also later.

[themaninblack]

A piece of non expert but happy colletor advice. With the exception of some unlikely very good fortune you will have to decide on whether you want a generally good piece to wear at a price or whether you are seeking a superb collectible and are willing to pay the price.

If the former you will probably have to accept some scars and blemishes and even dreaded service parts. Nothing wrong with service parts by the way as long as price reflects that, non Rolex after market parts are a different issue but can usually be replaced. I have seen some "original" pieces that are in dreadful condition internally so be cautious about that too.

If you are looking for a superb collectible it can be a good move to talk to one of the leading second hand dealers and be willing to pay. The chances of getting "lucky" in this very well scoured vintage market are increasingly slim, but not impossible.

Of course another option is rather than pay $40k for a clapped out old stainless steel watch just go and buy a beautiful new white gold GMT or platinum Day Date and not worry about it!

As always YMMV.

[lee fowler]

I believe it should also have an OCC dial.

[lupus66]

service dials are scoc