Rolex Pepsi history goes back in the early 1950s, at that period Pan American Airlines best known as Pan Am shared with Rolex the special of its pilots. They wanted a watch that would be able to display two different time zones at the same time when they had a transatlantic flight.
Rolex set out to create a timepiece that would revolutionize the world of aviation and travel. This marked the beginning of an iconic watch known as the Rolex GMT-Master, and one of its most famous variations came to be known as the “Pepsi” due to its distinctive red and blue bezel that looked like the famous soft drink Pepsi.
A Tale between Rolex and Pan Am
It all started due to the special needs of the employees of Pan Am, due toIn 1954, the Rolex Pepsi GMT was launched as the outcome of a specific requirement of Pan Am to Rolex . Rolex collaborated with Pan American World Airways in order to create a watch that would be especially designed for the needs of the pilots transiting in different time zones as well as tracking time during long-haul flights. The first GMT-Master was launched featuring a red and blue bi-colored bezel made from Bakelite and quickly replaced by anodised aluminum.
ROLEX PEPSI
The colors that were chosen in order to represent the day and night hours on the watch, making it easier for pilots to differentiate between those two. The “Pepsi” nickname was given due to the blue and red GMT-Master bezels(ref. 6542) launched in 1955 that reflected the colours of the logo of one of the most well known soft drink globally PEPSI.
Over the years, the GMT-Master Pepsi became highly popular among watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. The watch embodied the perfect blend of functionality, style, and luxury. Its robust construction, reliable movement, and distinctive design made it an instant hit among professionals and adventurers alike.
ROLEX PESPI: Technological Advancements and Modernization
Throughout its history, the Rolex GMT-Master Pepsi went through several updates and improvements. In the late 1950s, Rolex replaced the aluminum bezel with a more durable one made of Bakelite. However, due to its tendency to crack and fade over time, Rolex transitioned to using aluminum inserts for the bezel in the 1960s.
In the 1980s, Rolex introduced a new reference, the GMT-Master II, featuring an enhanced movement and a more modern appearance. This version allowed for independent adjustments of the hour hand, making it even more convenient for frequent travelers.
In 2014, Rolex unveiled a new iteration of the GMT-Master II Pepsi at Baselworld, the world’s largest watch and jewelry fair. This model, reference 116719BLRO, brought significant updates to the iconic timepiece. It introduced a ceramic bezel, which offered enhanced scratch resistance and vibrant colors that stayed true for years to come. The Pepsi bezel now featured patented Cerachrom technology, which allowed for the creation of the iconic red and blue ceramic bezel.
ROLEX PESPI: The Enduring Appeal of legacy
The GMT-Master II Pepsi continues to captivate watch enthusiasts with its timeless design, exceptional craftsmanship, and technical prowess. It represents the enduring legacy of Rolex as a pioneer in the world of horology and a symbol of luxury and precision. It is a watch that many celebrities wore and it stands out due to its unique combination of red and blue colors.
Today, the Rolex Pepsi GMT-Master II remains a highly coveted and iconic timepiece, with its rich history and distinctive aesthetics continuing to make it a favorite among watch collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
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The Rolex “Root Beer” is a popular nickname given to certain watches that feature a distinct brown and gold color scheme. This nickname originated from the resemblance of the watch’s bezel to the color of root beer, a popular carbonated beverage.
Its history can be traced back to the 1960s, when Rolex introduced a new variation of their GMT-Master watch. The GMT-Master was originally designed for pilots and allowed them to track time in different time zones simultaneously. The watch featured a rotating bezel with a 24-hour scale, allowing the wearer to read a second time zone by aligning it with the GMT hand.
By the time of the ’80s, Hollywood was beginning to create iconic stars, one of them was Clint Eastwood, who stated that the Root Beer was one of his favorites, he even used it in several of his films such as Firefox (Firefox, 1982), Tightrope (1984) and In the line of fire (1993)
ROLEX FISRT GMT
The first Rolex GMT-Master “Root Beer” made its debut in the 1960s with reference 1675/3. It had a two-tone bezel with alternating brown and gold segments, giving it a unique and distinctive appearance. The brown color of the bezel was created by using anodized aluminum, which provided durability and a rich hue.
Rolex GMT, Root Beer Ref. 1675
ROLEX ROOT BEER through the 70s
Rolex continued to produce different variations throughout the years. In the 1970s, they introduced the reference 16753, which featured a new case design that also had a date function. This model was also available in a two-tone configuration, with a mix of stainless steel and yellow gold.
In the 1980s, they updated the design with the introduction of the reference 16713. This model retained the brown and gold bezel but featured a slimmer case profile and improved movement. It was crafted from a combination of stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, giving it a luxurious and refined aesthetic.
RECENT YEARS
Rolex has reintroduced the theme in their GMT-Master II collection several years ago. At Baselworld 2018, they presented the GMT-Master II reference 126711CHNR, often referred to as the “Root Beer” or “Root Beer II.” This model featured a brown and black ceramic bezel with a two-tone Everose gold and stainless steel case and bracelet.
This collection has gained a strong following among watch enthusiasts due to its distinctive color scheme, luxurious materials, and Rolex’s reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and precision. The combination of brown and gold gives the watch a warm and sophisticated appeal, making it a sought-after timepiece in the luxury watch market.
The name has become synonymous with Rolex watches that feature a brown and gold bezel, and while the specific references and design details may vary over the years, the essence of the Root Beer remains an iconic and desirable part of the watchmaking legacy.
Today, however, Rolex makes a modern bezel in black and brown ceramic, fitted to Everose gold (ref. 126715CHNR) or two-tone Everose gold and steel GMT-Master II (ref. 126711CHNR) watches. CHNR is short for the French words for chocolate and black, “chocolat/noir”.
Important Milestones
Rolex GMT-Master “Root Beer” Reference 1675/3: This was one of the earliest iterations of the theme, introduced in the 1960s. It featured a two-tone bezel with alternating brown and gold segments, crafted from anodized aluminum.
Rolex GMT-Master “Root Beer” Reference 16753: This model was introduced in the 1970s and featured a two-tone stainless steel and yellow gold construction. It had an updated case design and included a date function.
Rolex GMT-Master II “Root Beer” Reference 16713: Released in the 1980s, this version featured a brown and gold bezel along with a slimmer case profile. It was crafted from stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, offering a luxurious appeal.
Rolex GMT-Master II “Root Beer” Reference 126711CHNR: This model was unveiled at Baselworld 2018 and is often referred to as the “Root Beer II.” It featured a brown and black ceramic bezel, a two-tone Everose gold and stainless steel case, and bracelet. It represented the modern interpretation of the theme.
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The Rolex “Batman” is a nickname commonly used to refer to certain GMT-Master II watches that feature a black and blue color theme. This nickname was given due to the resemblance of the bezel colors to the custom colors of Batman.
The history of the Rolex Batman can be traced back in 2013 when GMT-Master II Reference 116710BLNR was released. In this model major changes can be identified as it was the first time that black and blue ceramic bezel was introduced. The black color represented the night time hours, while the blue the daytime hours on the bezel.
ROLEX GMT BATMAN Master II Ref. 116710BLNR
The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 116710BLNR, often known as the “Batman,” with its stainless steel case and bracelet, quickly gained popularity among watch enthusiasts for its amazing and strong color combination. The blue and black ceramic bezel insert was crafted using Rolex’s patented Cerachrom technology that was able to give amazing scratch resistance and color durability. ROLEX GMT BATMAN became one of the most favorite models of Rolex for its unique aesthetic.
ROLEX GMT BATMAN Ref 126710BLNR
In 2019, “Batman” made a strong appearance in the watch world with the release of the GMT-Master II reference 126710BLNR. This version kept the black and blue ceramic bezel but changed the case and introduced slimmer lags and added the choice of a Jubilee bracelet.
ROLEX GMT BATMAN
ROLEX GMT BATMAN IMPORTANT MILESTONES
Rolex GMT-Master II Reference 116710BLNR: This model, introduced in 2013, is often referred to as the “Batman” due to its black and blue ceramic bezel. It features a stainless steel case and bracelet and became popular for its striking color combination.
Rolex GMT-Master II Reference 126710BLNR: This updated version of the “Batman” was released in 2019. It retained the black and blue ceramic bezel but introduced a slightly redesigned case with slimmer lugs. It also offered the option of a Jubilee bracelet in addition to the traditional Oyster bracelet.
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Learn more about the variables of the bracelets as well as for there characteristics in just a few minutes!
ROLEX BRACELET Jubilee
One of the most popular bracelets, first introduced in 1945 along with Rolex Datejust and patented in 1947. But why named Jubilee?
As the dictionary indicates, a Jubilee is a special anniversary of an event, especially one celebrating twenty-five or fifty years of a reign or activity. Jubilee bracelet was actually introduced in order to celebrate Rolex’s 40th anniversary. You can notice a five-piece link design that forms a series of small X-shaped patterns. It is considered one of the most elegant bracelets of Rolex providing style and elegance. The Jubilee bracelet can be found in all types of metals and also in a two tone.
ROLEX BRACELET JUBILEE
ROLEX BRACELET Oyster
The Oyster is one of the most classic bracelet of Rolex, first introduced in the late 1930s. It is actual one of the most popular and reliable bracelets that can accompany most of Rolex models. Because of its design it is one of the most reliable bracelet that last in time with minimum damages due to heavy use. You can find it in steel, yellow gold, rose gold, combination of materials, and lastly platinum.
ROLEX BRACELET OYSTER
ROLEX BRACELET President
The President bracelet was created in 1956 for the launch of the Oyster Perpetual Day Date. We can notice the semi-circular three-piece links which is considered as a mix between the Oyster bracelet and the Jubilee. The President bracelet can be spotted on the Day-Date and for some versions of the Datejust.
ROLEX BRACELET PRESIDENT
ROLEX BRACELET Pearlmaster
The Pearlmaster bracelet was introduced in 1992 and is a five-piece links bracelet, with more curves than the Oyster bracelet but simpler than Jubilee or President. It is considered one of the most elegant bracelets and accompanies diamonds and precious gems on dials, crowns and lugs. Can be spotted in platinum, yellow gold as well as white and pink gold.
ROLEX BRACELET Pearlmaster
ROLEX BRACELET Leather
In the beginning of the 1990s Rolex introduced leather straps for Daytona until 2017, when the rubber Oysterflex bracelet replaced them.
ROLEX BRACELET Oysterflex t
The Oysterflex was first introduced in 2015 by Rolex for the 2015 yacht Master Everose with reference… It provides the robustness and reliability of a metal bracelet, while preserving the comfort and suppleness of an elastomer strap. Rolex gave the opportunity of an Oysterflex bracelet for Daytona since 2018, and the Rolex Sky-Dweller since 2020.
ROLEX BRACELET Oysterflex
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Rolex was and still is a vision that came into life due to the one and only Hans Wilsdorf. Becoming one of the most iconic and well known brands in the watch industry, synonyms to power, wealth and style. With many celebrities as loyal customers it has managed to become a status symbol for all, in the recent years due to the high demand the prices have gone insane, creating a new era among watch collectors.
On 22 March of 1881 Hans Wilsdorf the founder of Rolex was born in Bavaria Germany.
1900 Neuchatel, Switzerland
Hans Wilsdorf moved to Neuchatel in Switzerland in order to work as a clock expert for La Chaux de Fonds. Neuchatel was and still is a small town well known in the watch industry.
1903 London, United Kingdom
In 1903 Hans Wilsdorf moved to London and the journey for Rolex beggins.
1905 London, Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis
The 24 year old Hans Wilsdorf along with his business partner Alfred Davis founded Rolex . Initially, the company was known as “Wilsdorf and Davis” and its main activity was importing Swiss watch movements and dials and placing them in high-quality watch cases.
1907, Back to Chaux-de-Fonds in Switzerland
“Wilsdorf and Davis” are opening an office in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland almost 7 years after he left Switzerland Wilsdorf is returning back to his roots in watch industry where everything started.
1908, Just call me Rolex
The origin of the name is somewhat mysterious, but the rumours are that “Rolex” was chosen because it was short, easy to pronounce in any language, and could fit well on a watch dial. Wilsdorf believed that a watch should be reliable, precise, and elegant, and he wanted the brand name to reflect these qualities.
1910, Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision
As the quality was in the top rank of the hierarchy, all its effort was focused on the quality of the movement. In 1910, Rolex became the first wristwatch to receive the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision, granted by the Horology Society in Bienne. This certification marked the beginning of Rolex’s reputation for precision and accuracy.
1912, Rolex Watch Co in Vienna
Two years after the award Rolex began manufacturing watches in Bienne Switzerland creating more connections with Switzerland.
1916, Bienne is where the magic happens
As in 1912 Rolex decided to manufacture watches in Bienne in 1916 they strategically decided to also move their technical office from La Chaux de Fonds to Bienne in order to ensure that their operations will work smoothly. Having both teams under the same roof ensured the level of quality and excellence that they committed too.
1919, Swiss Headquarters and Manufacturing
As Davis is no longer involved in the company Wilsdorf decided to live in Switzerland and following that Rolex moved its headquarters and manufacturing to Geneva, the mecca of the watch industry. This move marked the company’s transition into a fully-fledged Swiss watch manufacturer.
1925, Crown
Rolex crown logo is officially registered as a trademark.
1926, Oyster Case
In 1926, Rolex patented the screw down crown and therefore managed to introduce the world’s first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch, known as the “Rolex Oyster”. It is taking its name due to its extra protective case just like a mollusk shell. This innovation revolutionized the watch industry cause as it was extremely sealed and protected, it made wristwatches more durable and reliable.
1929, Prince Watch
In 1929 Prince watch was presented, including models 971, 971 A and 971 U, one of the most popular watches among the watch collectors.
1931, Perpetual Rotor
In 1931, Rolex patented the “Perpetual” , an automatic rotary winding mechanism, that allowed the watch to be wound by the motion of the wearer’s arm. This revolutionary invention eliminated the need for manual winding and set a standard for automatic movements in wristwatches that has set a new era in the watch industry. This was a breakthrough as now the second main category is added in the watch history dividing them into manual winding and automatic. In the next decades a new category will be added, quartz watches.
1935, Kings George V Limited Order
Five hundred Rolex Prince watches were ordered from King George V in order to be given as a gift at the special event organized to celebrate the King’s Silver Jubilee.
1937, Precision and Oyster Zeographs
In 1937 Precision was introduced to the public with two models 3642 and 3346. In the same year the first Oyster Zerograph was also released with 3642 and 3346 models that included a calibrated bezel that surrounded the watch and was later used in many sports models in the 1960s.
1941, Bubble Back Oyster and Oyster Perpetual
A new balance mechanism was introduced also known to the public as Superbalance, developed for the Oyster and Oyster Perpetual “bubble back” models. They were called Bubble Back because in order for the bigger mechanism to be included they had to create a bigger case back that looked like a bubble.
1945, Datejust
1945 the year that Datejust was born, the first automatic waterproof chronometer with indication of date in the window of the dial accompanied with a Jubilee bracelet. In the years to come many new models were introduced to the public, creating Datejust one of the most well series of Rolex and the pillar in its Oyster Perpetual Collection.
1952, Explorer
Rolex Explorer was launched through model 6098, designed for adventurers and mountaineers. The following year in May 1953 Explorer was given to members of Sir John Hunt’s expedition to Mount Everest.
1953, the year of Deep Sea, Turn -O- Graph and Submariner
1953 was probably one of the most important years in the history of Rolex as three of the most iconic watch models were introduced. The Rolex Explorer, designed for adventurers and mountaineers launched in 1952 but officially presented in 1953. Rolex Submariner, designed for divers and officially launched in 1954. And last but not least,Turn-O- Graph model 6202 that was available in steel and gold steel. These models remain popular and respected to this day.
1954, Milgauss
Milgauss, synonymous with the watch for scientists with its magnetic field, introduced its first model 6541.
1955, GMT-Master
In 1955 the Rolex GMT-Master 6542 was launched as a result of the collaboration with Pan American World Airways (Pan Am) that wanted to design a watch for their pilots special needs when traveling to different time zones. It featured a fourth hand that displayed a second time zone, making it ideal for international travellers in order to keep track with the time changes. GMT Master was a true revolution to the global community of watch fanatics.
1956, Day Date
Almost 11 years after the launch of Rolex DateJust, Rolex introduced the amazing Day Date. A watch that you could easily spot the day and the date on the dial.
Mid 1960
Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf died in Geneva.
1960, Cosmograph
In 1960 the first Cosmograph chronograph with reference 6239 was launched, featuring a tachymetric timing ring on the metal bezel. Months later 6241 is following but with an acrylic bezel.
1963, Daytona
The historic Rolex Daytona was named after the Daytona racing track , originally designed for racing drivers, gained immense popularity and is highly sought after by collectors. It took its name from Daytona beach, one of the most iconic racing spots. Daytona features a tachymeter scale and chronograph functions.
1966, Comex
In 1966 Rolex started working on an amazing new project with the diving company COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d’ Expertise). Comex divers needed an advanced watch as they used to spend long hours in pressuring champers breathing helium and oxygen gasses. During this time the helium molecules were able to penetrate the watch. At the end of this procedure the divers were brought back to the atmospheric pressure creating a built up pressure inside the watch that had as a result the crystal to be pushed out of the watch creating damage to the watch. In order to solve this problem Rolex fitted an ingenious gas escape valve in the Submariner Sea- Dweller 2000.
1970, The War of Quartz
Rolex weathered the “Quartz Crisis” in the 1970s when the watch industry was threatened by the rise of quartz movement watches (that use batteries). In these really tough market changes Rolex managed to focus on its original commitment to provide to its customers traditional mechanical movements and maintained its commitment to quality.
1971, Explorer II
The Explorer II model 1655 is launched.
Rolex has continued to innovate with various features and materials, including the use of Cerachrom ceramic bezels and Paraflex shock absorbers. The brand is known for its exceptional craftsmanship, precision, and robustness.
Today, Rolex is synonymous with luxury, quality, and prestige in the watch industry. Its watches are worn by a diverse range of people, from world leaders and celebrities to adventurers and professionals. Rolex’s commitment to innovation and timeless design has solidified its place as one of the most prestigious watchmakers in the world.
