The Rolex GMT-Master II "New Pepsi" – a name synonymous with luxury, precision, and a captivating history – has cemented its place as one of the most sought-after watches in the world. Its vibrant blue and red Cerachrom bezel, a modern iteration of the original Pepsi bezel, coupled with Rolex's unparalleled craftsmanship, makes it a collector's dream and a symbol of style for the discerning wearer. This article delves deep into the world of the New Pepsi, exploring its various iterations, its place in Rolex history, its market value, and the factors contributing to its enduring popularity.
The Genesis of the Pepsi Bezel and the New Pepsi's Arrival:
The story of the Pepsi bezel begins in the late 1950s, when Pan Am approached Rolex with a request for a watch capable of tracking multiple time zones. The result was the GMT-Master, featuring a bi-directional rotating bezel with a distinct red and blue color scheme – mirroring the colors of Pan Am's logo – which quickly became iconic. However, the original Pepsi bezel, and indeed the early GMT-Master models, were far from the technologically advanced timepieces we see today.
Fast forward to 2018, and Rolex unveiled a significant update to the GMT-Master II line: the reference 126710BLRO, affectionately known as the "New Pepsi." This wasn't simply a cosmetic refresh; it represented a culmination of Rolex's continuous innovation. The key difference, and the one that immediately catches the eye, is the introduction of the Cerachrom bezel insert. This ceramic bezel, unlike its predecessors made of aluminum, offers superior scratch resistance and color retention, ensuring the vibrant blue and red hues remain vivid for years to come. Finding low prices for these watches, especially the 799 Rolex GMT-Master II 2018 ref. 126710BLRO, often requires diligent searching and a keen eye for deals on reputable platforms.
Rolex GMT Pepsi Discontinued Models and the Evolving Market:
While the New Pepsi remains a highly sought-after model, it's important to understand the context of discontinued models and their impact on the current market. Several previous iterations of the GMT-Master II with Pepsi bezels have been discontinued, making them highly collectible and driving up their prices significantly. Understanding the differences between these models, their release dates, and their features is crucial for any serious collector. This includes understanding the materials used in the bezels, the movements powering the watches, and any subtle design changes introduced over the years.
This leads us to the question of why certain models are discontinued. Often, it’s a matter of Rolex’s strategic approach to product lines. New releases, like the New Pepsi, are often designed to incorporate advancements in materials and technology, rendering older models obsolete in terms of performance and features. However, this obsolescence often translates to increased desirability in the pre-owned market.
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