# Rolex GMT‑Master II “Pepsi” (Ref. 126710BLRO) – A Modern Classic Put to the Test The GMT‑Master II “Pepsi” has been the poster child of Rolex’s 2018 refresh, marrying the brand’s storied aviation heritage with a suite of in‑house upgrades that feel genuinely contemporary. At first glance the watch is unmistakable: a 40 mm stainless‑steel case crowned by the iconic red‑and‑blue Cerachrom bezel, a black Chromalight dial, and a Jubilee bracelet that whispers elegance. But beyond the visual punch, the new reference 126710BLRO carries the Caliber 3285, a movement that promises a 70‑hour power reserve, enhanced magnetic resistance, and the famed Superlative Chronometer certification. In this review we break down how those specs translate to everyday wear, where the watch shines, and where the legacy‑laden piece shows its age. ## Design & Case Rolex sticks to a clean, functional language with the GMT‑Master II Pepsi, and the numbers back that restraint. The case measures a comfortable 40 mm in diameter, crafted from Oystersteel – Rolex’s proprietary stainless‑steel alloy that balances corrosion resistance with a high‑gloss polish. The thickness sits just under 13 mm, giving the watch a solid wrist presence without feeling bulky on a 42‑year‑old wrist. The bezel is the star of the show. Introduced on the white‑gold model in 2014, the red‑and‑blue “Pepsi” Cerachrom insert is a ceramic composite that, according to Hodinkee, “offers quite a bit technically vs. the aluminum bezel – it’s for all intents and purposes scratch‑proof, and the colors won’t fade over time.” The 24‑hour graduated scale is both functional and instantly recognizable, a nod to the watch’s GMT heritage. Under the bezel sits a black Chromalight dial, a signature of Rolex’s night‑visibility technology. White hour markers and hands are coated in luminescent material that glows a deep blue in low light, ensuring legibility without sacrificing the dial’s understated aesthetic. The date window at 3 o’clock is magnified by a Cyclops lens, a hallmark that some love and others consider a visual compromise, but it remains part of the watch’s identity. Bracelet options are limited to the Jubilee or Oyster, with the Jubilee being standard on the steel “Pepsi.” The five‑piece link pattern offers a dressier silhouette, though as WatchGuys notes, “the first modern Pepsi ceramic was released only on the Jubilee bracelet,” which can feel less robust than the Oyster version during rigorous activity. Overall, the design balances heritage cues with modern materials, delivering a watch that looks at home on a boardroom table and on a weekend ski lift alike. ## Movement & Performance At the heart of the 126710BLRO sits Rolex’s Caliber 3285, an evolution of the previous 3186. The movement is a fully in‑house automatic, featuring the Chronergy escapement, a Parachrom hairspring, and a COSC‑certified Superlative Chronometer rating of –2/+2 seconds per day. Mt Watches sums it up succinctly: > “Pros & Cons – Proven Movement: The caliber 3285 offers 70‑hour power reserve, COSC certification to -2/+2 seconds per day, and a Parachrom hairspring that resists magnetic interference.” The 70‑hour reserve is a noticeable upgrade over the 48‑hour reserve of the predecessor, meaning the watch can comfortably sit idle over a weekend without winding. The Parachrom hairspring, made from a nickel‑titanium alloy, gives the movement a degree of magnetic immunity that is increasingly relevant in today’s gadget‑filled world. Accuracy is rock‑solid. In Rolex’s own testing, the GMT‑Master II consistently stays within the –2/+2 seconds per day envelope, a claim backed by the brand’s Superlative Chronometer stamp. The GMT function itself works via a 24‑hour hand that can be set independently of the hour hand, allowing a second time zone to be tracked at a glance—a feature that remains genuinely useful for frequent flyers and global professionals. The movement is protected by a sapphire crystal with a cyclops magnifier, and the case is water‑resistant to 100 m (330 ft). While the seal is reliable for everyday wear and light swimming, the depth rating feels modest compared with competitors that push 300 m+ at a similar price point. ## On the Wrist Putting the GMT‑Master II on the wrist is an exercise in balance. The 40 mm case lands squarely in the sweet spot for most adult wrists, offering a presence that is unmistakable without overwhelming the hand. Lug‑to‑lug measurement is roughly 48 mm, giving the watch a slightly elongated silhouette that reads well under a shirt cuff and still looks proportionate when worn solo. The Jubilee bracelet adds a touch of refinement, with its polished center links and brushed outer plates. It conforms nicely to the wrist, though some owners report that the softer links can develop a “play” after extended wear, necessitating periodic adjustments at an authorized service centre. The Oyster version, while not standard on the steel “Pepsi,” would provide a sturdier feel for those who favour a sportier profile. Comfort is further enhanced by the watch’s weight—about 160 g—making it feel solid yet not oppressive. The Chromalight dial’s blue glow is subtle enough for daily life but pops when the lights dim, a practical benefit for pilots or anyone navigating in low‑light environments. One practical consideration is the 100‑meter water resistance. While sufficient for rain, hand washing, and casual swimming, it falls short of the 300‑meter standards set by rivals like the Omega Seamaster or Tudor Black Bay GMT. As Mt Watches points out, “The 100‑Meter Water Resistance Feels Dated: Competitors at this price—Omega Seamaster, Tudor Black Bay GMT—offer 300+ meters.” For most owners this isn’t a deal‑breaker, but it does limit the watch’s utility in serious water‑sport scenarios. ## Value & Verdict The GMT‑Master II “Pepsi” commands a retail price in the high‑five‑figure USD range (approximately $13,000‑$14,000 at launch). The secondary market, however, often lists the piece at double that figure, reflecting both Rolex’s brand cachet and the model’s limited production. As both sources and market observations note, the premium can be prohibitive for first‑time buyers. When weighing price against what you receive, the watch offers several undeniable strengths: * **Iconic design** – The red‑and‑blue Cerachrom bezel remains one of the most recognizable watch faces in the world. * **Robust movement** – Caliber 3285 delivers a long power reserve, magnetic resistance, and industry‑leading accuracy. * **Dual‑time functionality** – A genuine utility for globetrotters. * **Superlative finish** – Rolex’s finishing standards are evident in the case, bracelet, and dial detailing. Conversely, the drawbacks are equally clear: * **Limited water resistance** – 100 m feels dated in a market where 300 m is the norm for comparable price points. * **Bracelet robustness** – The Jubilee link, while elegant, may require more frequent adjustments than the Oyster. * **Secondary‑market premium** – The watch can cost twice its retail price, narrowing accessibility. * **Dial variety** – Only a black dial with white indices is offered on the steel model, restricting personalization. **Verdict:** The Rolex GMT‑Master II “Pepsi” is a masterclass in marrying heritage aesthetics with modern engineering. For collectors who value the iconic bezel, the reliability of a Rolex chronometer, and the practical GMT function, it remains a top‑tier choice. Its limitations—particularly the modest water resistance and high market premium—are real, but they do not eclipse the watch’s core strengths. In short, if you can afford the price tag and are comfortable with a dress‑leaning bracelet, the 126710BLRO is a timeless addition that will retain both functional relevance and resale appeal for decades to come.