I was handed down a Rolex GMT master 6542, unsure of year and value (pics included)

[JMDeG]

My wife's family surprised me this Christmas with a Rolex GMT master 6542 that was was the watch of my wife's late great Uncle. I can't begin to describe how special it is to have been gifted a beautiful watch--from such an interesting and accomplished person. This guy had such a fascinating life-he was featured in Time magazine for an invention he created, he represented the US multiple times in world championship gliding competitions, he was a World War II vet who was recipient of a purple heart, he accepted the surrender of a Japanese controlled pacific island, his family owned one the largest lumber mills on the east coast, it goes on an on...

I've always wanted a Rolex and to me, this watch is priceless, but I'm trying to get it appraised for insurance purposes and need some guidance. Do I need to find a specialty vintage rolex dealer for my appraisal? Also, What year do you think the watch actually is? The family claims it is a 1954, but based on the serial number of 112XXX, I believe the watch is a 1955. The odd things about the watch is that it no longer has the bakelite bezel, the 24 hour hand is larger than what I believe is supposed to be on the 1955, and the date wheel is in all black instead of red/black. (see attached photos) I live in the upstate of South Carolina and the only authorized Rolex dealer in town has an appraiser come to town once a week, but he appraises everything...gold,silver,diamonds, watches...everything. I'm not sure whether he will have much experience in vintage Rolex watches.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks!



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[Tools]

You would need an appraisal that your Insurance company will accept and that would recover the actual value, as opposed to typical replacement value.

[Rebel]

All I can say is, enjoy.

[donaker]

I'm no expert but it appears many of the original bits have been replaced during service over the years. Looks like the bezel insert, dial, hands and date wheel (likely the Chrystal as well) have all been replaced.

Typically, the more original, the more valuable a piece. In your case, much of the value is sentimental due to it coming from a family member. I love such stories.

Congrats and I'm sure someone more knowledgeable will provide more guidance.

[Speed]

You would need an appraiser who really knows his (Rolex) stuff and to produce something Larry mentions in post # 2 above.

In contrast - since I own mostly modern / near-modern pieces - the guy I use simply looks up replacement costs for the watch, puts in on his letter head and sends to my insurance co.

The guy you reference will likely not have enough knowledge, but may be able to recommend an appraiser. So may others on this board. Good luck.

[Alexwwjd]

What a story. You must feel very proud having been chosen to receive this watch.


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