Rolex gmt master ii pepsi

The Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi combines elegance and functionality for global travelers, featuring its iconic red and blue ceramic bezel.

About this subject

The Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126710BLRO, nicknamed Pepsi for its red and blue bicolor bezel, is one of Rolex's most iconic watches. Originally launched in 1954 as the GMT-Master for Pan Am, the model evolved into the GMT-Master II in 1982. The contemporary version features a Cerachrom bezel, a scratch- and fade-resistant ceramic material. The red and blue ring is not merely aesthetic: the colors indicate day and night in the second time zone. The Caliber 3285 movement offers 70 hours of power reserve and Superlative Chronometer certification with accuracy of -2/+2 seconds per day. The 904L Oystersteel, Oyster bracelet with Oysterlock safety clasp, and Triplock winding crown ensure water resistance to 100 meters. The bidirectional rotating 24-hour bezel allows reading three time zones simultaneously, combining GMT function with date. Since its reintroduction in 2018 with a Jubilee bracelet and later Oyster, the Pepsi has become a grail watch with long waiting lists. Its resale value consistently exceeds retail price, reflecting Rolex's artificial scarcity. Aviation heritage and vintage aesthetic reinterpreted with modern technology make the Pepsi a timeless icon of luxury sports watchmaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Rolex GMT-Master II called Pepsi?

The Pepsi nickname stems from the red and blue bezel colors, reminiscent of the soda brand's logo. The current steel model Ref. 126710BLRO features a bicolor Cerachrom bezel.

What is the difference between GMT-Master and GMT-Master II?

The original GMT-Master (1954) had caliber 1036 with the 24-hour hand coupled to the date movement. The GMT-Master II (from 1982 onwards) allows independent adjustment of the hour hand, making time zone changes easier without stopping the watch.

Does the Pepsi bezel fade over time?

On modern Cerachrom (ceramic) bezels, no. The material is virtually indelible and UV-resistant. Vintage aluminum bezels could fade, a feature now appreciated by collectors.