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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · GMT wristwatch

Rolex GMT-Master Reference 16758

Partially verified

This Rolex GMT-Master, identified as reference 16758, dates to approximately 1980. The watch is constructed in yellow gold and features a matte black dial with applied, Tritium-filled 'nipple' indices. It is equipped with a black 24-hour bezel insert and a date function, which the source notes includes a quickset mechanism. The watch uses a sapphire crystal and exhibits a redesigned case for increased water resistance compared to predecessors in the GMT-Master line. The watch is fitted with a yellow gold 'rivet' Oyster-style bracelet featuring a signed, adjustable blade-style clasp. The auction description reports the watch is in overall excellent condition, with the case displaying factory chamfers and symmetrical lugs. The dial and handset show an even patina.

Front view of the Rolex GMT-Master Reference 16758 with black nipple dial and yellow gold bracelet.
Front view of the Rolex GMT-Master Reference 16758 with black nipple dial and yellow gold bracelet. — Oliver & Clarke. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.oliverandclarke.com
Category
Wristwatch · GMT wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
16758
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1980
Source-reported place
Not established

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Dial Design

The Reference 16758 features a yellow gold case characterized by symmetrical lugs and defined factory chamfers. The watch incorporates a sapphire crystal and a design intended to provide improved water resistance compared to earlier GMT-Master models. A rotating bezel with a black 24-hour insert allows for tracking a secondary time zone.

The matte black dial is distinguished by applied, gold-rimmed indices, often referred to as 'nipple' dials. These indices are filled with Tritium, which has developed a patina consistent with the handset. A date aperture is located at the 3 o'clock position, magnified by a cyclops lens integrated into the crystal.

Evidence for this section
  • “The case retains tick and symmetrical lugs at each corner, with those gorgeous factory chamfers clearly visible.”
  • “increased water resistance by way of a sapphire crystal and case redesign”
  • “The matte black dial inside features applied 'nipple' indices filled with Tritium, which show even patina throughout with a beautifully matching handset.”

Movement and Functionality

The watch is powered by a movement that includes a quickset date function, a feature that distinguishes the 16758 from preceding iterations of the GMT-Master series. This allows for independent adjustment of the date without cycling through the entire 24-hour period.

The timepiece retains the core GMT-Master functionality, utilizing a dedicated 24-hour hand in conjunction with the rotating bezel to indicate time in two different zones simultaneously.

Evidence for this section
  • “upgrading the movement with a quickset date function”
  • “These pieces carry over a very similar brown 'nipple' dial and brown bezel insert, while also upgrading the movement with a quickset date function”

Bracelet and Condition

The watch is presented on a yellow gold 'rivet' Oyster-style bracelet. The auction description notes that this specific bracelet is a later addition to the watch. It is equipped with a signed, adjustable blade-style clasp.

The auction description reports the watch is in overall excellent condition. It exhibits standard signs of wear consistent with age, though no significant damage or blemishes are noted by the vendor.

Evidence for this section
  • “This piece comes fitted to a matching, albeit later yellow gold 'rivet' Oyster bracelet with a signed adjustable blade-style clasp.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific production movement caliber housed within this reference?
  • Can the production date be narrowed beyond 'circa 1980' using the case serial number?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex GMT-Master Reference 16758
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Reference16758“Ref. 16758”
Datecirca 1980“dates to circa 1980”
Case featuresSapphire crystal, quickset date, redesigned case“upgrading the movement with a quickset date function, as well as increased water resistance by way of a sapphire crystal and case redesign”
BraceletYellow gold rivet Oyster style“fitted to a matching, albeit later yellow gold 'rivet' Oyster bracelet”
ConditionExcellent“comes to us in excellent overall condition”

Visible details

  • Applied yellow gold 'nipple' hour markers
  • Black 24-hour bezel insert
  • Date aperture with cyclops lens at 3 o'clock
  • Signed yellow gold bracelet with adjustable blade clasp

Research qualifications

  • The 'rivet' Oyster bracelet is described as a 'later' component
  • Specific serial number is not provided in the source

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت مچی Rolex GMT-Master رفرنس 16758 با صفحه Nipple مشکی

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record d01bd9ed5c

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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