For luxury watch enthusiasts and horology aficionados, few timepieces evoke the same level of admiration and fascination as the iconic Rolex Pepsi models. Adorned with distinctive red and blue bezels, these watches symbolize prestige, craftsmanship, and timeless style. As Rolex continuously refines and innovates its designs, two notable GMT-Master IIs have gained a cult-like following: the Rolex GMT-Master II 116719BLRO and the GMT-Master II 126719BLRO. In this article, we will look at the two models and their unique characteristics.
What is Rolex Pepsi?
Rolex Pepsi refers to a specific color combination used on the bezel of certain GMT-Master II models. The term “Pepsi” is a nickname that originated due to the resemblance of the red and blue color scheme to the iconic soft drink brand’s logo.
The Pepsi bezel is characterized by a two-tone design, with half of the bezel in red and the other half in blue. This distinctive color combination serves a practical purpose by aiding in displaying a second-time zone on the watch’s bezel. The red portion typically represents day hours, while the blue represents nighttime hours. The Rolex Pepsi models have gained significant popularity and are highly sought after by collectors and watch enthusiasts.
GMT-Master II 116719BLRO vs GMT-Master II 126719BLRO
When analyzing the two exquisite models of the watch, a few things stand out more than others. The GMT-Master 126719BLRO is designed in 18kt white gold with options for the unique Midnight Blue and Meteorite dial. The unique dials make the watch a sought-after timepiece among watch enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the discontinued reference no. 116719BLRO featured a white gold case and bracelet with a black dial. One can no longer get this configuration as the black dial is available only with Oystersteel. The change might have been made to help individuals distinguish the white gold models from the Oystersteel, which look similar.
The dials offered by the two models are one of the primary differences between the two. Other differences between the two Rolex Pepsi models include the following:
- Movement
- Price
Movement
The 126719BLRO model features Rolex’s newer Calibre 3285 movement, which has a longer power reserve of up to 70 hours compared to the 116719BLRO’s Calibre 3186 movement with a 48-hour power reserve.
Price
Due to the differences in material and movement, the 126719BLRO model is typically more expensive than the 116719BLRO model. However, the discontinuation of the model could possibly affect the prices of the watch in the luxury pre-owned watch market.
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Rolex Pepsi Watch Prices |
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| Watch Model | Pre-owned Watches | Retail Price |
| GMT-Master II 116719BLRO | AED 140,000 – AED 200,000 | Discontinued |
| GMT-Master II 126719BLRO | AED 150,000 – AED 250,000 | ● AED 62,600 for Midnight Blue
● AED 171,850 for Meteorite |
The GMT-Master II 126719BLRO
The GMT-Master II 126719BLRO is an exemplary watch to have in your watch collection. The white gold case and bracelet make it one of the most luxurious pieces among the GMT Master II models. With many revolutionary features attributed to its design and technicalities, this watch epitomizes everything Rolex represents. Some features of the watch include:
The Bezel: The GMT-Master II 126719BLRO features the two-color blue and red Cerachrom insert in ceramic. The bezel is also bi-directional and rotatable.
Crystal: The watch features a scratch-resistant sapphire like all current-production Rolexes.
Water Resistance: The Rolex Pepsi 126719BLRO has a water resistance of up to 100 meters/330 feet.
These specifications of the watch are some of the interesting and noteworthy features of the GMT-Master II 126719BLRO. If you are looking to get yourself a Rolex, the GMT-Master is an excellent choice.
Get a Rolex Pepsi
The biggest attraction of the Pepsi is the blue and red Cerachrom insert, which is available in both the models, 116719BLRO and 126719BLRO. If you would like the black dial with white gold, then the Rolex Pepsi 116719BLRO is the way to go. However, the discontinued watch can only be purchased from pre-owned luxury watch dealers. Since it is not easy to distinguish Oystersteel from white gold, individuals can consider getting a black dial with the Oystersteel case and bracelet instead!
If you’re looking for a watch that will stand out and is completely unique, the Rolex Pepsi 126710BLRO is perfect. Get the Meteorite dial, and be sure to stun every watch enthusiast. You can get the watch from Rolex or pre-owned dealers, depending on your convenience. Go through the different specifications and get your hands on the watch that suits you best.
