The Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126710 BLRO, affectionately known as the "Pepsi" GMT due to its iconic blue and red bezel, created a significant stir when it debuted at Baselworld 2018. This wasn't just another iteration of a classic; it represented a culmination of Rolex's horological expertise and a shrewd understanding of its market. This review will delve deep into its features, design, performance, and legacy, exploring its impact on the watch world and its continued relevance today. We'll also consider its place within the larger context of the GMT-Master II lineage, addressing questions surrounding its price, availability, and future iterations, touching upon models like the Rolex GMT Pepsi 2020 and speculated Rolex 2025 GMT Master II.
A Design Icon Reimagined:
The 2018 Pepsi GMT wasn't a radical departure from previous models, but rather a refined evolution. The most striking change was the return of the iconic two-tone ceramic bezel – a “Pepsi” bezel – after a long hiatus. The vibrant blue and red ceramic perfectly complemented the polished Oyster case, creating a visually stunning and instantly recognizable timepiece. This bezel is not just aesthetically pleasing; its ceramic construction ensures exceptional scratch resistance, a key characteristic of Rolex's commitment to durability. The Jubilee bracelet, a hallmark of Rolex elegance, further enhanced the watch's overall aesthetic appeal. Its five-piece links provided a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist.
The 40mm case size remained consistent with previous generations, striking a balance between presence and wearability. The watch felt substantial without being overly bulky, making it suitable for both formal and informal occasions. The cyclops lens over the date window, a classic Rolex feature, provided clear date readability. The updated movement, the calibre 3285, represented a significant technological advancement, which we will explore further below.
The dial itself, typically black, provided a stark contrast to the vibrant bezel, allowing the hands and indices to stand out clearly. The luminescence of the hands and markers ensured excellent legibility in low-light conditions, a vital feature for a watch designed for travel and adventure. The use of Chromalight, Rolex's proprietary luminescent material, offered superior brightness and longevity compared to previous generations.
Calibre 3285: The Heart of the Beast:
The Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126710 BLRO features the in-house calibre 3285, a significant upgrade over its predecessor. This movement showcases Rolex's commitment to innovation and precision. The 3285 boasts an impressive power reserve of approximately 70 hours, a considerable improvement over previous movements, allowing for greater convenience and flexibility. The longer power reserve means the watch can be left unworn for a weekend without stopping, a significant advantage for frequent travelers or those who prefer to rotate their watches.
Furthermore, the 3285 movement incorporates the Chronergy escapement, a silicon-based escapement that offers increased efficiency and resistance to shocks and magnetic fields. This contributes to the watch’s exceptional accuracy and reliability, key elements of Rolex's legendary reputation. The movement's construction also incorporates optimized lubrication and a Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, further enhancing its performance and resistance to external factors. These advancements contribute to the watch's COSC certification (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres), a testament to its superior timekeeping capabilities.
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