my 1967 gmt 1675 bezel question

[NYMike]

Hi All,

My first thread here so be kind. I have a 1967 gmt. Which belonged/belongs to my dad. (I appropriated it when he switched at an AP). I love that it's original, but he used it as a watch of the time should have been used - to tell time while taking abuse. It's actually in great shape but I'm considering changing the bezel, because the fade is a bit too much. (I like faded but the blue is pretty much gone). I see many other 1675's with rich blue and shiny bezels. Not sure what a new (in 1967) bezel would ave looked like.

[swish77]

I love it like this, but if you're set on changing it, I'd keep this one, and find a color combo to your liking. There are plenty of guys out there selling vintage Rolex bezel inserts. Check VRF. Or ..... you could pop off this insert (keep it!), take the watch to a Rolex Service Center and tell them you need a replacement insert 'cause the other one fell off. They'd install a brand new Pepsi insert. It won't have a vintage feel, but it would have the bright colors you're looking for. Great watch! Good luck!

[drockadam]

Welcome to TRF!

That is a really gorgeous 1675 GMT! There are a bunch of members on here that have 1675's like yours! I'm sure they'll chime in soon!

I would like to check this out.... There is a fantastic photographer on this website named Jocke. He has a great website for Watch Pictures. Please look at these pictures.

http://www.watchwallpapers.com/gmt.htm

[Paladin]

Great watch! Keep the old bezel safe and if you insist, buy a new Pepsi bezel either here or on The Vintage Rolex Forum (VRF) site and have a local AD or jeweler put it into the bezel for you.

Make sure you buy the insert either here or the VRF and make sure it is original Rolex mfg. it should come in a littl wax envelope with the part number on it in black lettes/numbers.

[mike]

It's a lovely example.

I have a couple that the inserts are so faded they're useless as far as functionality.

I had new inserts put on both during service and kept the old ones.

History was made with the old and the new allows me to use the watch to it's fullest---best of both worlds.

[NYMike]

Originally Posted by mike

It's a lovely example.

I have a couple that the inserts are so faded they're useless as far as functionality.

I had new inserts put on both during service and kept the old ones.

History was made with the old and the new allows me to use the watch to it's fullest---best of both worlds.

Thanks for the reply Mike,

You cannot of course swap them in and out frequently. Do you miss having the faded look from time to time?

[RC2]

Mike. Buy one on this forum or the vintage forum. Keep that bezel insert. It's beautiful and full of memories. Rich.

[nch209]

NYMike--- perhaps you wish to trade inserts with me for a newer one! :-) LOL! KEEP THE ONE THATS ON THE WATCH!!!

[greekbum]

Nice watch. I would keep that 1 and find a period correct Fat or Mid Font that you like the look of and enjoy it.

[Duc5150]

Keep it as is...it gives it character! (but then again I have a soft for vintage pieces)

[NYMike]

I like the vintage too, but I thought finding a period inset which was a littie less faded might give it a richer look. You guys are pretty convincing. I suppose I ave to find another old piece and do a full restore (so I can have both looks).

[pdoukas]

Shouldn't the dial have the long E for originality, or was this serviced in the early 70's.

Pete

[Submarino]

Welcome on board!!! Here's a picture of my 1675 with a Pepsi Fat Font bezel insert. One like mine is really hard to find, especially in good condition with a nice even fading. With time and patience you might be able to get one at a reasonable price. I haven't seen one under $750.00 though.

[NYMike]

Originally Posted by pdoukas

Shouldn't the dial have the long E for originality, or was this serviced in the early 70's.

Pete

It was serviced and I think they removed the original radioactive (supposedly) dial back in the 1970's. Not sure if it was changed again in between. I think they didn't ask if you wanted the change back then. Also, my dad was not a collector and like most people, just let rolex do its thing.

[springer]

The insert is nicely faded, but the severe scratching distracts from the insert. I'd find an insert that is faded without the abundance of scratches and add the original insert to your box of extras.