The Rolex GMT-Master II "Pepsi," with its iconic blue and red Cerachrom bezel, is a watch that transcends mere timekeeping. It's a symbol of status, adventure, and horological excellence. But the world of Pepsi GMTs is bifurcated: the "old" and the "new," each with its own distinct charm and characteristics. This article will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two iterations, examining everything from their design and materials to their price and market value, answering the questions frequently asked by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The Genesis of the Pepsi: A Brief History
Before diving into the specifics of the "old" versus "new," a quick historical overview is warranted. The GMT-Master, first introduced in 1955, was designed in collaboration with Pan Am to aid pilots in tracking multiple time zones. Early models featured a bakelite bezel, which was later replaced with aluminum. The iconic two-tone blue and red bezel, reminiscent of a Pepsi-Cola can, emerged in the 1960s and quickly became a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts. This color combination, often referred to as the "Pepsi" bezel, has remained a defining feature of the GMT-Master line ever since.
The "Old" Rolex Pepsi: A Collector's Dream
The term "old" typically refers to the GMT-Master II references preceding the introduction of the current generation, specifically models with the reference numbers 16710 and 116710. These watches represent a significant piece of Rolex history and are highly sought after in the vintage and pre-owned market.
* Bezel: The defining feature of the "old" Pepsi is its aluminum bezel insert. This insert, while prone to fading and scratching over time, is what gives these watches their unique character and patina. The color degradation, often uneven, is seen by many collectors as a mark of authenticity and history, adding to their desirability. The faded bezels often develop a beautiful, unique "sunburst" effect, highly prized by collectors. The aluminum bezel also offers a lighter, more tactile feel compared to the newer ceramic bezel.
* Movement: The "old" Pepsi models generally housed the caliber 3186 (16710) or 3185 (116710) movements. These are highly reliable automatic movements known for their accuracy and longevity, though they lack the newer generation's improvements in accuracy and power reserve.
* Case and Bracelet: The case and bracelet materials were generally 904L stainless steel, though subtle differences existed between the 16710 and 116710. The bracelets, generally the Oyster bracelet, showed a slightly different design and construction compared to the newer models.
* Availability and Price: Finding an "old" Pepsi in pristine condition is a challenge. Due to their age and popularity, these watches command a significant premium in the pre-owned market. The price varies greatly depending on condition, box and papers, and specific reference number. Checking resources like a Rolex Pepsi price chart will give a general idea of the market value, but a hands-on inspection is crucial before purchasing. You can find "old" Rolex Pepsi for sale on various online platforms and through reputable pre-owned dealers.
The "New" Rolex Pepsi: Modern Refinement
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