Rolex, the iconic Swiss luxury watch manufacturer, has a rich history of producing timepieces that have become legendary within the horological world. A timepiece that has captivated watch enthusiasts and collectors for decades is the Pepsi. Known for its distinctive red and blue bezel, the Pepsi has become one of the most sought-after and recognizable watches in Rolex’s lineup. In this article, we will explore the various Rolex Pepsi models that have been launched so far, tracing their evolution and significance in the world of luxury watches.
Pepsi Models: From the OId to the New
The Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi, as it is officially known, was first introduced in 1955 as a tool watch for professional pilots and frequent travelers. The watch featured a dual-time zone function, allowing wearers to simultaneously keep track of time in two different time zones.
The red and blue bezel, reminiscent of the colors of the Pepsi logo, quickly earned it the nickname “Pepsi.” Here are all the Pepsi models so far and their noteworthy features.
- Rolex Pepsi Reference 6542
- Rolex Pepsi Reference 1675
- Rolex Pepsi Reference 16760
- Rolex Pepsi Reference 16710
- Rolex Pepsi Reference 116917BLRO
- Rolex Pepsi Reference 126710BLRO
Rolex Pepsi Reference 6542
This is the first reference of Rolex Pepsi. Born as a tool watch, it is one of the most revered timepieces of all time. Rolex launched the GMT Master to help commercial pilots keep track of time in two different time zones with the 24-hour hand. Having been consigned by Pan American Airways, it comes as no surprise that the colors of the watch are inspired by the popular airline’s colors.
It was also popularly worn by Honor Blackman in the James Bond film Goldfinger
The watch featured a Bakelite bezel that was known to be fragile and, therefore, later replaced by aluminum. This reference number underwent considerable changes before the next was released by Rolex.
Rolex Pepsi Reference 1675
The reference 1675 was introduced in the 1960s. This model featured a thicker case and an improved movement, allowing for smoother operation of the GMT hand.
The watch saw many changes during the years it was in production, from 1959 to 1980. One of the notable changes was the shift from gilt dials to matte ones. If you’re a vintage Rolex enthusiast, this will be one of the prominent features you are quick to notice.
The Pepsi bezel remained a prominent feature, adding a touch of vibrancy to the watch’s overall design. Over the years, the GMT-Master II Pepsi has undergone several updates and refinements, with advancements in materials, movements, and overall functionality.
Rolex Pepsi Reference 16760
In 1982, Rolex introduced a significant update to the Pepsi model with the reference 16760, also known as the GMT-Master II “Fat Lady” or “Sophia Loren.” It marked the beginning of the GMT-Master II series. The watch had noticeably thicker handles and featured a larger case size.
This reference number gave rise to the so-called “Coke” bezel which came in red and black. The black to denote evening hours, and the red for daylight.
It also gave rise to a new movement (caliber 3085), and the introduction of a new material for the bezel insert—ceramic. The ceramic bezel brought improved durability and resistance to fading, making it a favorite among collectors.
Rolex Pepsi Reference 16710
This is the second reference of the GMT-Master II. Having run from the late ‘80s to 2007, it is a long running reference that was available with the Pepsi, Coke and all-black bezels. The case was made slimmer thanks to the 3185 movement.
The reference saw considerable changes having spanned for 18 years.
Rolex Pepsi Reference 116917BLRO
The next significant milestone in the evolution of GMT Pepsi came in 2014 with the introduction of the GMT-Master II reference 116719BLRO. This model marked the first time Rolex utilized its proprietary Cerachrom bezel, a ceramic material known for its scratch resistance and color retention on the Pepsi.
The use of ceramic allowed for the creation of the iconic red and blue Pepsi bezel with a vibrant and long-lasting color. The reference 116719BLRO also featured a white gold case, adding a luxurious touch to an already prestigious timepiece.
The watches were not produced in steel as it was not feasible for the brand to create watches in large numbers with a Cerachrom bezel. Rolex discontinued the 116719BLRO with the black dial and introduced the 126719BLRO with a blue dial.
Rolex Pepsi Reference 126710BLRO
Rolex unveiled the much-anticipated GMT-Master II reference 126710BLRO with a Jubilee bracelet. This model brought back the classic Pepsi look, with a stainless steel case, a ceramic Pepsi bezel, and the iconic red and blue color scheme. The addition of the Jubilee bracelet, known for its five-link design and comfortable fit, added a touch of vintage elegance to the watch.
Rolex Pepsi references 126710BLRO and 126719BLRO are still in production today, while the other models will need to be sourced from pre-owned luxury watch dealers.
Other Rolex GMT-Master II Models and the Specifications
Rolex has released a range of GMT-Master II watches, each gaining popularity in its own right. Here are the nicknames of the watches and their unique bezel colors.
| Rolex Model | Bezel |
| Rolex Root Beer | Brown/Yellow |
| Rolex Batman | Blue/Black |
| Rolex Coke | Black/Red |
| Rolex Sprite | Green/Black |
The watches have also been produced with a Blue/Fuchsia bezel as well as a Brown/Black one which is still in production.
Rolex Pepsi: A Watch to Behold
The Rolex Pepsi models have become true icons within the world of luxury watches. From their humble beginnings in the 1950s to the modern iterations with advanced materials and improved movements, the Pepsi models have continued to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. With their distinctive red and blue bezels, these timepieces embody the essence of Rolex’s commitment to both style and functionality. Each iteration of the Rolex Pepsi has brought its own unique charm and innovation while still paying homage to the original design that made it so popular.
