Catalog example attributed to Rolex 6542 (18k) Brown (bakelite) / Gilt brown
Catalog example: Rolex 6542 (18k) Brown (bakelite) / Gilt brown. Sourced example; exact configuration not independently verified. Photo source: chrono24.com

GMT-Master reference

Rolex 6542 (18k)

Brown (bakelite) / Gilt brown

Gilt brownBrown (bakelite)Thin data

The yellow-gold version of the original, crown-guard-free GMT-Master. Gold cases and distinctive dial and bezel combinations set it apart from the steel reference. This catalog entry records dial: GiltGold-colored dial printing, usually on early glossy Rolex sport dials. It is one of the first details collectors use to date a watch. brown; bezel: Brown (bakeliteAn early plastic bezel material used on references like the GMT-Master 6542. Original inserts are fragile and heavily scrutinized.).

Dealer range
$150,000 to $350,000
Auction range
$120,000 to $300,000
Evidence
3 source links

A closer look

Notable examples

Explore the dial, bezel and case details through distinct examples, each linked to its original source.

Compare Rolex 6542 (18k) configurations

Same-reference variants appear first, followed by nearby configurations in the same model family. These are catalog comparisons, not matched sales. Blank specifications remain unrecorded rather than inferred from neighboring references.

Recorded specifications by configuration
Reference / configurationDialBezelEvidence links
6542 (18k) · Brown (bakelite) / Gilt brownGilt brownBrown (bakelite)0 reference; 0 price
16700 · Black / Glossy tritiumGlossy tritiumBlack0 reference; 0 price
16700 · Pepsi / Glossy tritiumGlossy tritiumPepsi0 reference; 0 price
16700 · Pepsi / LuminovaLuminovaPepsi0 reference; 0 price
16710 · Black / SuperluminovaSuperluminovaBlack0 reference; 0 price
16710 · Coke / SuperluminovaSuperluminovaCoke0 reference; 0 price

Questions to identify this configuration

  • Dial: Gilt brown. Ask which reference document or item-specific photograph supports this recorded detail, and whether the offered watch differs.
  • Bezel: Brown (bakelite). Ask which reference document or item-specific photograph supports this recorded detail, and whether the offered watch differs.
  • Request clear reference and serial markings, a service history and disclosure of replaced components. Compare those documents with the exact configuration above before treating another example as equivalent.

Reference sources and price evidence

0 distinct reference sources are attached to these 1 catalog entry. 1 entry has no attached reference source; treat their specifications and historical notes as catalog claims awaiting verification.

0 of 1 entry has attached price-source links. Dealer ranges, auction ranges and catalog estimates are separate data categories, not live offers or verified transaction results. Check each linked page for asking versus sold price, sale date, currency, fees and the actual configuration; a source link alone does not establish those details.

Photographs illustrate sourced examples. Image-source links identify their origin; they are not reference research, proof of authenticity or a statement of image rights. No physical inspection is represented here. Read the editorial and evidence method.

Collector Notes

1958-59 in 18k gold; only a few hundred made; blue-chip rarity

Pricing Ranges

Dealer range
$150,000 to $350,000
Auction range
$120,000 to $300,000
Links

Reference Details

Reference
6542 (18k)
Collection
GMT-Master
Family
GMT-Master
Dial
Gilt brown
Bezel
Brown (bakelite)
Data
Thin / inferred
Photo set
3 images
Workbook source
GMT row 8

Reference Photos

Catalog example attributed to Rolex 6542 (18k) Brown (bakelite) / Gilt brown, photo 1
Sourced example; exact configuration not independently verified. chrono24.com
Catalog example attributed to Rolex 6542 (18k) Brown (bakelite) / Gilt brown, photo 2
Sourced example; exact configuration not independently verified. chrono24.com
Catalog example attributed to Rolex 6542 (18k) Brown (bakelite) / Gilt brown, photo 3
Sourced example; exact configuration not independently verified. everywatch.com

Image Sources