Rolex 1958 GMT 6542 Restoration video.....A fun watch...

Recently I've found myself watching 1675 GMT restoration videos and ran across this one last week from Marshall who posts his restoration videos at Wristwatch Revival on YouTube.

Last week in London I finally saw a couple of stunning 6542's in the flesh at the Burlington Arcade so it was timely to see this video posted last week.

I've enjoyed Marshall's videos and find them a bit cathartic and relaxing to watch. I'm sure watchmakers will have differing skills and opinions on serviceing but Marshall seems to be a very competent amateur watchmaker.

As to the watch, the consensus on the Rolex forums is that is has a few non-original or refurbished parts but that does not take away from the beauty of the watch and how it came out after the restoration.

I’ve been watching Marshall’s videos for over a year now. They are absolutely amazing. He is an incredible editor and storyteller.

Seeing those stunning 6542's in person at the Burlington Arcade must have been an incredible experience. Nothing beats seeing these watches up close and appreciating their beauty firsthand.

6542 is my favorite GMT. On that note, here’s an original (I think) Bakelite bezel broken to pieces.

The story is: original owner bought the watch in ‘58. By early 70s, he has broken a couple of these Bakelite bezels. Replacement cost for the last broken Bakelite was $125. Understandably, he was upset and refused to pay for another plastic bezel. He opted for an aluminum replacement. Rolex sent back his 6542 fitted with an aluminum insert and returned his broken Bakelite.

Another true gmt. Rolex guys feel free to use this video to come up with ideas for your next release 😉

Now that would be pretty great to see. Think about how fantastic a faithful modern reproduction of the 6542 would look using current production capabilities.