Rolex GMT-Master II 126710BLRO
About This Watch
The Rolex GMT-Master II 126710BLRO, universally known as the "Pepsi," is one of the most coveted watches of the modern era. First introduced at Baselworld 2018, it stunned the watch world by combining the beloved red-and-blue Cerachrom ceramic bezel with a Jubilee bracelet on a stainless steel GMT-Master II for the first time. The GMT-Master lineage stretches back to 1955 when Rolex developed the original for Pan American World Airways pilots who needed to track two time zones simultaneously. The "Pepsi" nickname dates to the original ref. 6542 with its red and blue Bakelite bezel. This modern iteration houses the caliber 3285 with a 70-hour power reserve and an independently adjustable local hour hand, allowing travelers to quickly set local time without stopping the watch. Creating a two-tone ceramic bezel insert was a significant technical challenge that Rolex spent years perfecting, as ceramic cannot simply be painted. The result is a fade-proof, scratch-resistant bezel that will maintain its vibrant colors indefinitely. The Jubilee bracelet adds an element of elegance, though an Oyster bracelet version (ref. 126710BLRO on Oyster) was later introduced. This remains one of the hardest Rolex models to obtain at retail.
In-Depth Review
# The GMT-Master II 126710BLRO: A Modern Icon's Evolution
Rolex's decision to pair the iconic blue and red "Pepsi" bezel with the updated GMT-Master II represents a masterclass in heritage meets contemporary design. Introduced in 2018, the reference 126710BLRO arrives as a stainless steel tool watch that finally fulfills decades of collector anticipation. The real innovation lies beneath the dial: the in-house caliber 3285 movement delivers a 70-hour power reserve—a substantial upgrade that reflects Rolex's confidence in the GMT platform. Housed in a robust 40mm Oystersteel case with a sophisticated Jubilee bracelet, the watch balances professional functionality with refined aesthetics. The ceramic Cerachrom bezel, bidirectional and fade-resistant, eliminates the fading issues that plagued earlier aluminum inserts. At 12.1mm thick and 100 meters water-resistant, this is a watch engineered for actual use, not just wrist display.
The 126710BLRO targets a specific collector: the globetrotter who refuses to compromise between sport and refinement. Pilots, executives with international operations, and serious Rolex enthusiasts recognize this watch as essential. Its dual time-zone functionality remains unmatched in practical application, while the Jubilee bracelet elevates it beyond pure tool-watch territory. However, prospective buyers should acknowledge the secondary market reality—the $11,150 MSRP bears little relation to current $20,000 pricing, reflecting supply constraints and desirability.
Against competitors like the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean GMT or Tudor Black Bay GMT, the Rolex commands a premium. The Omega offers chronograph complications and slightly more aggressive styling; the Tudor provides exceptional value. Yet the
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | Rolex 3285 |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 31 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 40.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 12.1mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel (904L Stainless Steel) |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Bezel | Bidirectional rotating, blue and red Cerachrom ceramic insert |
| Dial Color | Black |
| Lug Width | 20mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 48.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 100m / 328ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Jubilee bracelet |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink comfort extension |
| Weight | 145g |
| Complications |