We Went in Skeptical About the Rolex GMT Pepsi. Now, We’re Obsessed

We didn't expect to fall for the Rolex Pepsi quite like this. Allow us to explain. 

Sure, we've always admired its status as a cultural icon, a collector's darling, and the ultimate pilot's companion. But it wasn't until we strapped it on that we truly understood the hype — and let's just say it derailed everything we thought we knew about our watch preferences.


It wouldn't be entirely wrong of us to say the Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi is a gravitational force that pulls you into its orbit. That red and blue colour combination? Total instant identification. For the uninitiated, of course, it's the colour of a soda can. For horology lovers, however, it's pure magic.

We weren’t planning to get this deep. Like many, we’d admired from afar. After all, the Rolex Pepsi has been on wrists since its debut in the mid-1950s, cementing its place as one of the most iconic timepieces ever created. 

So, what changed? 

Well, we finally decided to give this timepiece the time it deserves — literally. Whether you are a collector who knows your reference numbers by heart or someone who simply appreciates the art of Swiss watchmaking, we think you will relate. 

Let's explore the history, evolution, and irresistible charm of the Rolex Pepsi GMT-Master II. 

Spoiler alert: we're all in.

A Legacy In Every Detail: The History Of The Rolex Pepsi

The Rolex GMT-Master was engineered to solve a problem.

It was 1954, and with air travel taking off to unprecedented heights, Pan American World Airways approached Rolex with one request: a watch that could display two time zones simultaneously. It was about functionality. Pilots needed a reliable tool to navigate through the complexities of international travel, and Rolex delivered with the GMT-Master ref. 6542.

This revolutionary watch included a fourth hand, the GMT hand, whose end pointed to a 24-hour scale on the bezel. The red-and-blue Bakelite bezel marked hours in red during the day and in blue at night. It soon became the darling of pilots, bringing precision combined with style to an age when travelling by air was still associated with elitism.

Jumping back to 1959, the GMT-Master ref. 1675 came into existence. Crown guards and a larger case increased sturdiness without compromising on the basic aesthetics of the design. Through the decades, the GMT-Master has evolved from its original Bakelite bezel to a stronger aluminium version and finally to the scratch-resistant Cerachrom ceramic bezel, we know in the 21st century. Each iteration retains the red-and-blue motif, a visual cue synonymous with the Rolex Pepsi.

The Craftsmanship That Defines the Rolex Pepsi

Rolex seems to make engineering look effortless, and Pepsi is no different. It's a watch that bridges the gap between form and function, showing that utility can be wrapped in sheer elegance. But what exactly is the craftsmanship of the Rolex Pepsi that makes it so legendary? 

The Iconic Bi-Color Bezel

The bezel, of course, is the centrepiece. The contemporary Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi is equipped with a bidirectional rotatable bezel featuring a Cerachrom insert, made of high-tech ceramic that is basically scratch-proof. But what puts it over the top is the bright red and blue gradient which will not lose its colour over time.

Pilots and adventurers alike have relied on this bezel to track a second time zone for decades, while platinum-coated numerals and graduations add understated touches of luxury. And this bezel looks good both in bright lighting and dim. This is definitely a showpiece.

A Movement Engineered for Precision

At the heart of Rolex Pepsi lies the Calibre 3285 movement, a technical masterpiece entirely developed in-house by Rolex. It boasts an impressive 70-hour power reserve, making it as practical as it is advanced.

Thanks to Rolex’s patented Chronergy escapement, the movement is energy-efficient and highly resistant to magnetic fields — key features for today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world. This ensures that whether you’re keeping local time or navigating across time zones, your watch remains flawlessly precise.

The Famous Case

The case of the Rolex Pepsi exudes durability and design marvellously. Its materials are Rolex's own proprietary alloy, resisting corrosion while maintaining a smooth, lustrous finish for tens of years of use.

The case size itself is a perfect 40mm — a balance that stands bold but comfortably wearable for any wrist size.

The Perfect Bracelet

No Rolex is complete without its bracelet, and Pepsi’s Oyster bracelet is iconic in its own right. With its robust three-link design, polished sides, and brushed top finish, the bracelet is both luxurious and practical.

Equipped with an Oysterlock safety clasp and Easylink comfort extension, the watch provides comfort while also bringing in security that suits the owner. It's both functional and fashionable, combining the rest of the watch effortlessly.

A Closer Look at all Rolex Pepsi Models

From its practical beginnings as a tool watch for Pan Am pilots to its current status in most collectors' hearts as the Holy Grail, Pepsi has a very different design, materials, and movement history over the years. 

Through the years, Rolex has mixed it up with other bezel pairings (hello, Coke and Batman), material testing, and even made the Pepsi somewhat of a closed club from time to time. 

1. Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 6542: The Original Pioneer

Years of Production: 1955–1959

Main Characteristics: 38mm stainless steel case, Bakelite bezel, Calibre 1036/1065/1066

This was the starting point of everything. The reference 6542, which Rolex introduced in 1955, was a response to Pan Am's request for a watch that could display two time zones. The two-tone red-and-blue bezel was useful for wearers to differentiate between day and night hours.

The bezel itself was made of Bakelite, which sounded futuristic at the time but ended up being a bit too fragile (and slightly radioactive, thanks to its luminescent numbers). Rolex later switched to aluminium for durability, but if you happen to stumble across a vintage 6542 with its original Bakelite bezel intact, you're looking at a serious collector's dream.

2. Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675: The Long-Running Icon

Years of Production: 1959–1980

Main Characteristics: 40mm stainless steel case, aluminium bezel, gilt or matte dial

The 1675 brought a lot of updates to the GMT-Master line. It introduced crown guards (no more accidental damage to the crowns), and increased the case size to 40mm, which makes it stand out more on the wrist.

This model also marked the shift from radium to tritium lume, making it a bit less, well, dangerous to wear. The aluminium Pepsi bezel became standard, and with time, the colours on many of these bezels have beautifully faded into soft blues, pinks, and even fuchsia.

3. Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16750: The Star

Years of Production: 1980–1988

Main Characteristics: 40mm stainless steel case, aluminium bezel, Caliber 3075

Collectors refer to reference 16750 as a "transitional" model, but it actually retained the essence of the old classic Pepsi feel. It carried a quickset date function along with increased water resistance up to 100 meters. Early models were like those of the 1675 but with matte dials. The glossy dials and white gold hour marker surrounds eventually replaced those and heralded sleeker models.

Whether you’re a matte dial purist or a glossy fan, the 16750 strikes a balance between vintage charm and modern functionality.

4. Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16700: The Last of the GMT-Masters

Years of Production: 1988–1999

Main Characteristics: 40mm stainless steel case, sapphire crystal, Caliber 3175

As the GMT-Master II gained popularity, Rolex continued to keep the original GMT-Master alive with the 16700. It was less complicated, less expensive, and only available in stainless steel with either a Pepsi or black bezel. The sapphire crystal debuted here, providing better scratch resistance than the older acrylic crystals.

This was the last hurrah for the GMT-Master, which officially retired after 1999 in favour of the GMT-Master II.

5. Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 16710: The Aluminum Pepsi Finale

Years of Production: 1989–2007

Main Characteristics: 40mm stainless steel case, aluminium bezel, Caliber 3185/3186

The reference 16710 brought the GMT-Master II into the limelight. This watch came in the Pepsi bezel in addition to black-and-red (Coke) and all-black, thus making it the most versatile version for collectors. The case is slimmer than its predecessor, the Fat Lady 16760, and thus more wearable for everyday wear.

6. Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 116719BLRO: The White Gold Showstopper

Years of Production: 2014–2018

Main Characteristics: 40mm white gold case, Cerachrom bezel, Caliber 3186

In 2014, Rolex resurrected the Pepsi bezel, but this time it came in only white gold. The ceramic bezel with Cerachrom is the innovation which has come up with such vivid colours and long-lasting durability, though the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 116719BLRO does come with a very steep price, one that isn't for those looking to save on serious luxury.

7. Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126710BLRO: Steel Savior

Years of Production: 2018–Present

Main Characteristics: 40mm stainless steel case, Cerachrom bezel, Caliber 3285

In 2018, Rolex finally gave the people what they wanted: a stainless steel Pepsi GMT with a Cerachrom bezel. The 126710BLRO launched on a Jubilee bracelet, adding a bit of vintage charm to the modern design. Rolex later reintroduced the Oyster bracelet option, giving collectors even more to love.

Powered by the Caliber 3285, an in-house movement that boasts a 70-hour power reserve, this reference has all the precision of a modern Rolex. It shows that even after decades of evolution, the Pepsi bezel is as iconic as ever.

The Rolex Pepsi is a Financial Power Move

Let's get one thing straight: buying a Rolex Pepsi isn't one of those luxury purchases you regret later (you know, like that fancy espresso machine gathering dust in the corner). Nope, this is a piece that holds its own and then some.

There's something about a Rolex Pepsi – it's no longer just an ordinary watch. It's part of a legend, a status symbol, and an investment all rolled into one. After being introduced in the 1950s, it's ever since been increasing in value, but today, it's probably one of the most sought-after Rolex watch models in this world.

Why? 

Well, for starters, Rolex has mastered the art of controlled scarcity. They make just enough Pepsis to keep us all wanting one but not nearly enough to satisfy the demand. Throw in the iconic design, its ties to aviation history, and the fact that it’s a Rolex, and you’ve got a timepiece that collectors can’t get enough of.

Why It Holds Its Value (and Then Some)

Unlike that flashy car that drops in value the second you walk out the door, the Rolex Pepsi is more like fine wine — it gets better (and pricier) with time.

Here's what keeps the value high:

  • Materials That Last Forever: Oystersteel, Cerachrom bezels, and bulletproof Rolex movements mean your Pepsi can survive just about anything.

  • Timeless Design: That blue-and-red bezel is iconic. You don't have to be a watch nerd to know it, and that appeal helps keep demand sky-high.

  • Legacy Points: It's a piece of history. Pepsi's roots in aviation give it a story that collectors love to tell.

You'd know it's been on fire if you follow the luxury watch market closely, and at the helm of it all is the Rolex Pepsi. The prices for vintage pieces like the ref. 1675 GMT-Master are making everyone's eyes water, but even the new releases, like the 126710BLRO, sell well above retail prices. 

Making a Smart Move

Looking to add a Rolex Pepsi to your collection? These are some things to keep in mind to avoid just buying a watch but rather investing in one:

  • Go Authentic or Go Home: Avoid the fakes and deal only with trusted sellers.

  • Condition is King: A Pepsi with its original parts and minimal wear is going to hold its value way better than one that’s been through the wringer.

  • Patience Pays: The market for Rolex is steady, so even if you’re buying at a premium now, chances are you’ll still come out ahead later.

To Buy, Or Not to Buy? 

Buying a watch as expensive as the Rolex GMT Pepsi is no easy feat. You’re obviously conflicted. But we hope this blog may have helped make the decision a little easier (we’re biased, and we vote to buy!)

In the past, when we’ve thought of Rolex, we’re likely to think of conservative, classic colours — silver, champagne, black and even white. Bright red and blue? Now that’s out of the box. And Rolex happens to do out of the box really, really well. 

If you’re in the market for the Rolex GMT Pepsi, we highly recommend stopping by Love Luxury and browsing through our collection of gently-used, preloved watches. We offer the best prices in town — guaranteed! 

Time is money. Go buy a Rolex GMT Pepsi! 

Related Articles