Why Is The Rolex GMT Master Pepsi Popular?

Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 6542. (1954-1959). The first GMT-Master model was designed primarily for Pan American airline pilots. It comes in stainless steel and Bakelite Pepsi bezel in red and blue, and its case is stamped with the Pan American Airways logo.

Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675. (1959 - 1980). This model features an aluminum Pepsi bezel and various dial configurations. It is one of the longest-running references in the Rolex’s history.

Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 16710. (late 1980s). This timepiece marked the transition to the GMT-Master II line and was available with three bezels: black and red, all-black, and Pepsi red and blue.

Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 16700 (1988 - 1999). This model featured an aluminum Pepsi or black bezel and was Rolex’s last GMT-Master watch.

Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 16750. (1980 to 1988). This vintage GMT-Master 16750 replaced the GMT-Master Ref. 1675.

Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126710BLRO. (2018-present). It features the Cerachrom Pepsi bezel.

Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 116719BLRO. (2014-2018). It marked the return of the red and blue Pepsi bezel after being absent for seven years. It was crafted from Cerachrom rather than aluminum, like the earlier generation.

Rolex Pepsi GMT-Master II 126719 BLRO. (2018- present). With this model, Rolex upgraded its white gold Pepsi model. Similar to the stainless steel Pepsi model, Ref. 126719BLRO features slightly thinner and more refined lugs.

Historical Significance

The Rolex GMT Master Pepsi was introduced in 1954 through a partnership with Pan American World Airways. This timepiece was explicitly crafted to meet the demands of pilots and frequent travelers wanting a watch that could simultaneously show two different time zones. The red and blue bi-color bezel was a groundbreaking feature of the Rolex collection.

The half-red and half-blue bezel colors with white markings were used to distinguish the day and night times of the watch’s second-time zone. The bezel’s colors also symbolize the colors of the American flag, a potent symbol of power in the post-war world.

Iconic Design

While the primary purpose of the Rolex GMT Master Pepsi's dual-colored bezel was to track multiple time zones (the blue portion indicating daytime hours and the red portion representing nighttime hours), the bezel's vibrant colors contribute to the watch's visual appeal and set it apart from other timepieces.

The GMT Master Pepsi's red and blue bezel resembles the colors of the Pepsi logo, hence the nickname "Pepsi." This association with a globally recognized brand adds an element of familiarity and nostalgia to the watch, making it instantly recognizable to enthusiasts and consumers alike.

Before the GMT Master Pepsi, Rolex was known for its classic and conservative watch colors (black, white, silver, and champagne). The Rolex GMT Master Pepsi was the complete opposite. The blue and red sections and large white numerals made the GMT Master Pepsi one of Rolex’s most popular and recognizable watches, commanding attention and admiration for its timeless design.

Technical Innovation

Since its establishment in 1905, Rolex has pioneered watch inventions and innovations. PAN AM requested Rolex develop a timepiece showcasing dual time zones in a single watch. In 1954, Rolex created the GMT Master Pepsi with a 24-hour hand using a bezel with a 24-hour format that would eventually rotate.

The GMT-Master evolved into the GMT-Master II collection, which can simultaneously track up to three time zones.

Collectibility

The enduring appeal of the Rolex GMT Pepsi is due to its distinct blue and red bezel. It is also famous for its practical multi-time-zone feature. The Rolex GMT-Master Pepsi is a favorite among watch enthusiasts and collectors because of its association with luxury and travel, which made the watch immediately coveted.

Adding to its popularity is when the Rolex GMT Pepsi was worn by Pussy Galore, a famous James Bond girl in the 1964 film Goldfinger played by Honor Blackman opposite Sean Connery.

A GMT Master Pepsi with a white dial is rare, especially if it bears the PAN AM logo, representing this symbolic watch's origin.

Status Symbol

Owning a Rolex, especially a coveted model like the GMT Master Pepsi, is often perceived as a symbol of success and accomplishment—the GMT Master Pepsi’s. Association with luxury, craftsmanship, and exclusivity enhances its appeal to consumers who value status symbols and premium quality.

Quality and Craftsmanship

Rolex has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality timepieces renowned for their durability and precision. The GMT Master Pepsi benefits from this reputation, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a timepiece with a unique multi-time-zone feature.

Getting the best price when selling Rolex watches depends on your timepiece’s demand and popularity in the secondary market. The Rolex GMT Master Pepsi is among the most sought-after timepieces in the secondary market.

Experience and Expertise

We have a team of six in-house master-trained watchmakers with deep knowledge of Rolex watches, especially the Rolex GMT Master Pepsi. We can accurately assess your timepiece based on its authenticity, condition, and market value.

Sell Us Your Jewelry.com and its parent company, Gray & Sons, have been one of the largest buyers and sellers of used Rolex and other luxury watch brands since 1980.

We are a proud member of the International Watch & Jewelry Guild and the National Association of Watch Collectors, Inc.

Convenience

We always prioritize your convenience. When selling a Rolex watch, you can log in to our website and proceed with our seamless selling process from the comfort of your home or anywhere.

You can also visit us at Gray & Sons Jewelers, 9595 Harding Ave., Surfside (Miami Beach), FL 33154 (Located across from Bal Harbour Shops). Monday - Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm

Safe and Secure

We have a safe and secure online platform. We will not share your details with anyone.

You can ship your precious Rolex GMT Master Pepsi safely and securely using our Easy Ship Box, which has instructions on how to package your timepiece confidently. It also comes with a shipping label. Mail your package to us via registered mail. Make sure to get insurance for your timepiece.

Our showroom is insured and bonded to ensure your timepiece is safe with us.

Top-notch Service

Sell Us Your Jewelry.com has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. We provide top-notch customer service and offer the best price for pre-owned luxury watches, jewelry, diamonds, and sterling silver pieces.

We are committed to clear and open communication throughout the selling process. A Sales Specialist is on standby on our website to answer any of your questions. You can also contact us at tel: 305 770 3955 or sell@grayandsons.com.

Offers the Most Money

See Us Last! Based on its condition and current market value, we are confident we can offer you the most money for your Rolex GMT Master Pepsi. We want to buy your pre-owned Rolex, whether new, worn, unused, or used.

Unlock the actual value of your Rolex GMT Master Pepsi. Request a free quote and be on your way to converting your precious timepiece into cash.