Even those unfamiliar with horology recognize the “Pepsi” bezel—the distinctive blue-and-red ring adorning one of Rolex’s most famous watches, the GMT-Master. Originally designed for pilots, this timepiece has transcended its utilitarian roots to become a symbol of adventure, precision, and luxury. As the GMT-Master celebrates its 70th anniversary, we explore its history, innovations, and enduring legacy.
The Dawn of Jet-Age Travel
Commercial aviation in the mid-20th century was a far cry from today’s seamless global connectivity. Early transcontinental flights were grueling, multi-day journeys with frequent stops. The introduction of jet engines revolutionized air travel, making it faster and more accessible. With this shift came a new challenge: tracking multiple time zones at once.
Pan Am’s Request and Rolex’s Answer
In the 1950s, Pan American Airways approached Rolex to develop a watch capable of displaying local time and Greenwich Mean Time simultaneously. The result was the GMT-Master (Ref. 6542), unveiled in 1955. Featuring a rotating 24-hour bezel and an additional hour hand, it allowed pilots to monitor two time zones with ease. Its luminous dial, water-resistant Oyster case, and automatic movement set a new standard for travel watches.
The watch’s red-and-blue bezel—dubbed “Pepsi” for its resemblance to the soda brand’s colors—became an instant hallmark. Beyond its practicality, the bold design made it instantly recognizable, cementing its place in pop culture.
From Cockpits to Wrist Icons
Over the decades, the GMT-Master evolved subtly but significantly. Rolex introduced crown guards, improved movements, and new materials while maintaining the watch’s core functionality. It accompanied explorers, astronauts, and adventurers on historic journeys, from Cold War-era flights to record-breaking supersonic missions.
A major leap came in 1982 with the GMT-Master II, which featured an independently adjustable hour hand, enabling tracking of a third time zone. This innovation made the watch even more versatile for globetrotters.
The Modern GMT-Master II
Today’s GMT-Master II lineup offers a range of materials, colors, and bracelets. Highlights include:
Stainless steel “Pepsi” (Ref. 126710BLRO): The return of the classic red-and-blue bezel, now in durable ceramic.
”Batman” (Ref. 126710BLNR): A sleek black-and-blue variant.
”Root Beer” (Ref. 126715CHNR): A luxurious Everose gold model with a brown-and-black bezel.
Left-handed “Sprite” (Ref. 126720VTNR): A 2022 release with a left-side crown and green-and-black bezel.
Each iteration balances Rolex’s heritage with cutting-edge technology, including high-precision movements and scratch-resistant Cerachrom bezels.
A Legacy of Innovation and Style
From its origins as a pilot’s tool to its status as a cultural icon, the GMT-Master remains one of Rolex’s most celebrated creations. Its blend of functionality, durability, and timeless design ensures its place on the wrists of collectors and adventurers alike. As Rolex continues to refine the GMT-Master II, one thing is certain: The “Pepsi” isn’t just a watch—it’s a legend.
