ROLEX GMT-MASTER 1675/3 · “ROOT BEER” · 14K/SS · 1970 · Matte Brown Nipple Dial · Full Genuine Components

For collectors of character, patina, and historical charm, the Root Beer GMT stands as one of Rolex’s most soulful designs. A warm, velvet-toned expression of 1970s luxury, celebrated by vintage purists across the world.

Among the icons of Rolex’s golden era, few possess the distinct charisma of the GMT-Master 1675/3 Root Beer. Produced from the late 1960s into the 1970s, the early matte-brown “nipple dial” configuration — especially with its velvet-like surface texture — is widely regarded as one of the rarest and most desirable variants.

This 1970 production example features the true first-generation matte brown dial, correct gilt-framed nipple indices, original tritium plots, and a beautifully preserved two-tone 14K bezel. The jubilee bracelet, Ref. 62523 with FF450 endlinks, remains remarkably tight with almost no stretch — a near-impossible find in the modern market.

A watch that balances character with structural integrity, offering the ultimate expression of vintage two-tone charisma. This is the Root Beer that collectors chase, admire, and keep.

DESCRIPTION

This 1970 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675/3 exemplifies the allure of early two-tone craftsmanship — a period where Rolex combined practical tool-watch engineering with warm, expressive aesthetics. The matte brown dial, a beloved hallmark of this era, delivers a unique velvet-textured finish found only on early Root Beer configurations. Unlike later gloss service dials, this original matte execution reveals depth, richness, and a soft, diffused luster that evolves beautifully over time.

The gilt-framed “nipple” hour markers, fully correct for its production period, retain gentle tritium patina — complemented by natural aging on the hour hand. The minute hand shows lume loss, a trait commonly accepted in early tritium Rolex watches and consistent with the watch’s untouched authenticity. The bi-metal 24-hour bezel retains its original two-tone brown insert with period-correct wear and light flaking, while the 14K bezel ring presents only minor marks.

The stainless-steel case remains strong, with well-preserved lug shape, no major impacts, and natural polish traces. The 18K/SS Jubilee 62523 bracelet with FF450 endlinks is exceptionally well-maintained, showing almost no stretch — a rarity that elevates the piece significantly.

Powered by the celebrated Cal. 1575 (1570 GMT) — one of Rolex’s most respected movements — this example runs with amplitude and consistency, supported by a freshly lubricated and regulated mechanism.

A soulful, coherent, and deeply collectible early-matte Root Beer in Excellent Vintage (A Grade) condition.

HIGHLIGHTS & FEATURES

• 1970 production — early matte brown “Root Beer”
• Original gilt-framed nipple dial
• Tritium indices with warm, period-correct patina
• Correct 14K gold bezel ring
• Brown two-tone 24h insert with vintage aging
• Caliber 1575/1570 GMT — serviced & lubricated
• Exceptional Jubilee 62523 bracelet w/ FF450 endlinks
• Tight bracelet — minimal stretch
• All parts verified genuine
• Strong case with natural polish traces
• Timegrapher: +10 sec/day, amplitude 267°
• A-grade collectible vintage Rolex

ITEM DETAILS

• Brand: Rolex

• Model: GMT-Master “Root Beer”

• Reference: 1675/3

• Year: 1970

• Case Material: Stainless Steel + 14K Yellow Gold

• Bezel: 14K gold ring + brown two-tone insert

• Dial: Original matte brown nipple dial

• Hands: Tritium (minute hand lume loss)

• Bracelet: Rolex Jubilee 62523 (18K/SS) + FF450

• Movement: Cal. 1575 / 1570 GMT

• Case Size: 40mm

• Lug-to-lug: 44mm

• Wrist Fit: up to approx. 185mm

• Condition Grade: A (Excellent Vintage)

• Accessories: None

• Function: GMT, time, date

CONDITION REPORT — A (EXCELLENT VINTAGE)

Dial:
• Original matte brown early-generation
• Beautiful velvet finish
• Tiny 6 o’clock flake (very small)
• No major scratches, no oil stains

Hands:
• Tritium patinated
• Minute hand lume loss (notable)
• Hour & GMT hand excellent

Bezel:
• 14K bezel ring — light marks only
• Brown insert — vintage flaking visible

Case:
• Sharp shape
• No major dents
• Light polish traces
• Excellent structural integrity

Bracelet (62523 FF450):
• Almost no stretch
• No dents or deep scratches
• Exceptional condition for age

Crystal:
• Light aging marks
• Clear visibility

Movement:
• Cal. 1575 (1570 GMT)
• Serviced, lubricated, regulated
• +10s/day, amplitude 267°
• 100% functional

Overall: Excellent vintage preservation with small period-correct aging traits.

WHY COLLECTORS WANT THIS WATCH

• True first-generation matte brown Root Beer

• Highly desired nipple-dial configuration

• Tight original Jubilee bracelet

• Rare early-1970 production

• Genuine parts across all components

• Warm 1970s aesthetic unmatched by later models

• Investment-grade Root Beer with collector-approved condition

BRAND HERITAGE — ROLEX

Rolex’s GMT-Master series is a product of the Jet-Age — technical watches built for global pilots, reimagined through the warmth of two-tone luxury. The 1675/3 represents the intersection of tool-watch functionality and expressive 1970s design, making the Root Beer one of the most charismatic GMTs in Rolex’s entire history.

Looking to secure this piece today?

At Japonista, we take pride in offering only carefully curated, original, and authentic pieces. Every item we list is examined, researched, and backed by our full authenticity guarantee—so you may buy with complete confidence.

Some of our pieces may allow a little room for negotiation, while others hold firm due to rarity, condition, or collector value. On a case-by-case basis, we do entertain best offers, and we welcome you to submit one if you have a particular figure in mind. We review all offers seriously and personally.

Should you have any questions, require tailored recommendations, or need assistance with budgeting or shipping arrangements, our concierge team is always here to help. Simply message us anytime—we are warm, responsive, and ready to assist.

Before checking out, we kindly encourage you to review our shop policies and house rules, available through the links in our website footer, as they offer clarity regarding shipping, handling, returns, and conditions for vintage and collectible goods.

For clients who wish to reserve a high-value item, Japonista provides layaway plans on a case-by-case basis. This allows you to lock in rare pieces while spacing out payments flexibly and discreetly. Simply reach out to request eligibility and tailored arrangements.

Have questions or want to place this item on hold?
Contact our Japonista Concierge™ anytime for priority assistance and private offers.

Thank you for choosing Japonista. We are honored to share these extraordinary treasures of Japan with you, from our heart to your doorstep.