Rolex GMT-Master "Pepsi" (Ref. 1675) from 1977 Ejection Incident Acquired by Bob's Watches
A significant Rolex GMT-Master "Pepsi" (Ref. 1675) from 1977, worn by a U.S. Air Force pilot during an ejection from his F-105 fighter jet, has been acquired by Bob's Watches. The watch, which survived the incident, comes with its original box, papers, and a personal account from the pilot, adding substantial provenance to its already high collectibility.
- Rolex GMT-Master "Pepsi" Ref. 1675
- 1977 model year
- Owned by Captain David Bartell, U.S. Air Force pilot
- Survived an ejection incident in 1978
- Acquired by Bob's Watches
- Includes original box, papers, purchase receipt, newspaper clippings, and a personal letter
The watch is a 1977 Rolex GMT-Master "Pepsi", Reference 1675, powered by the Caliber 1575 automatic movement and featuring the iconic red and blue bi-directional bezel.
Captain David Bartell's watch, S/n 5136186, survived his ejection from an F-105D fighter jet shortly after takeoff on July 14, 1978.
The acquired package includes the watch, its original box, purchase receipt, certification papers, newspaper clippings of the incident, photographs of the pilot's service, and a personal letter from Captain Bartell recounting the experience.
The watch features a Mark V matte dial with a Swiss T<25 Tritium luminous material, which should exhibit faint lume with characteristic cream discoloration.
The caseback is engraved with Captain David Bartell's name, and the bracelet clasp is inscribed with pilot wings and a personal message.
Paul Altieri of Bob's Watches noted that while collectors seek rarity and condition, stories like this elevate a watch's collectibility significantly.
The Rolex GMT-Master "Pepsi" is a cult collector favorite with a direct connection to aviation and travel.