By 1960, the potential health risks associated with using Radium in watches particularly for dial painters (see: Radium Girls) were well-recognized. As a result, watch brands began phasing it out early in the decade.
During this transition, Rolex introduced a small lume dot below the 6:00 marker (!) to indicate the reduced Radium content in the dial and hands. This practice was short-lived, preceding the full switch to Tritium lume.
These "Exclamation Point" dials are highly desirable among collectors because they combine sought-after features: a gilt, chapter ring dial, pointed crown guard case, and lower Radium content, which is safer and ages more gracefully.
Exclamation Point dials are already rare, finding one in this condition is even more exceptional.
Brand: Rolex
Model: GMT-MasterReference: 1601
Movement: 1575
Year: 1961
Case: 39mm
Strap: Gay Freres/Rolex 7206 oyster rivet bracelet, 58 endlinks & 63 clasp code.
Box & papers: No
CONDITION & SERVICING
-The gilt dial is in excellent condition, showing only a light patina on the gloss.
-The hands and markers are matching in color.
-The pointed crown guard case features thick and even lugs. The lug chamfers are notably sharp and substantial, and the crown guards have largely maintained their original form.-The 'Pepsi' bezel insert has aged to a stunning blue and red.
-Service history is unknown.
