It’s official(No more Rolex Pepsi GMT): At Watches & Wonders 2026 on April 14, Rolex discontinued the GMT-Master II “Pepsi” — both the stainless steel ref. 126710BLRO and the white gold ref. 126719BLRO were pulled from the catalog, with no replacement announced .
The End of an Eight-Year Icon
The steel Pepsi ref. 126710BLRO arrived in 2018 and spent its entire production run as one of the most wanted — and least available — watches Rolex has ever made. The red-and-blue Cerachrom bezel was famously difficult to manufacture: Rolex didn’t crack the color combination in ceramic until 2014, and even then only on a white gold model. That production difficulty may be part of why the Pepsi is gone.
What Discontinuation Means for Prices
The market reacted immediately. Since April 2026, average examples of the steel 126710BLRO have been trading around $25,000, while unworn 2026-dated pieces are pushing $40,000 and up. History suggests this is not a spike but a repricing — discontinued steel sports Rolex references (think 116710BLNR “Batman” or the “Hulk” Submariner) have consistently climbed after leaving the catalog.
We Have Pepsis in Stock
If you’ve been waiting for a Pepsi, waiting longer is unlikely to make it cheaper. We currently have several in our GMT-Master II collection, including 2025 Jubilee and Oyster examples and the white gold meteorite-dial 126719BLRO — every watch authenticated before sale.
What About the Other GMTs?
The discontinuation puts a spotlight on the whole GMT-Master II family: the “Bruce Wayne” 126710GRNR, “Batgirl” 126710BLNR, “Sprite” 126720VTNR and “Root Beer” 126711CHNR all remain in production — for now. If the Pepsi’s trajectory is any guide, today’s catalog GMTs are tomorrow’s discontinued darlings. Browse the full GMT-Master II lineup or contact us to buy, sell, or trade.
Rolex Pepsi Discontinued in 2026: GMT-Master II 126710BLRO Pulled at Watches & Wonders
The Rolex Pepsi GMT has always represented one of the most iconic designs in modern Rolex history. With its instantly recognizable red and blue ceramic bezel, professional aviation heritage, and legendary collector nickname, the GMT-Master II 126710BLRO became one of the most desirable Rolex sports watches ever produced.
In 2026, collectors around the world turned their attention toward an important development: the Rolex Pepsi GMT-Master II 126710BLRO was removed from Rolex’s current lineup following Watches & Wonders 2026. The discontinuation immediately created discussion among Rolex enthusiasts, collectors, and luxury watch buyers who consider the Pepsi one of the defining modern Rolex references.
For many collectors, the removal of the stainless steel Pepsi GMT represents the end of an era. The combination of Oystersteel, the iconic red and blue bezel, and Rolex’s Caliber 3285 movement created a modern classic that connected directly to the original GMT-Master watches of the 1950s.
At GMT Timepiece, we help collectors source and authenticate exceptional Rolex watches, including highly desirable GMT-Master II models. Whether you are searching for a Rolex Pepsi GMT, a Rolex Batman GMT, or another professional Rolex sports model, understanding the history and market importance of these watches is essential.
Rolex Pepsi GMT Discontinued: What Happened?
The Rolex Pepsi GMT-Master II 126710BLRO became one of the most sought-after modern Rolex references after its introduction. The watch combined Rolex’s advanced ceramic bezel technology with one of the most famous color combinations in watchmaking.
The nickname “Pepsi” comes from the red and blue bezel colors, inspired by the original GMT-Master models created for international airline pilots. The two-color bezel represented day and night hours, allowing pilots to easily track a second time zone.
The 126710BLRO continued this tradition with a modern interpretation featuring:
- 40mm Oystersteel case
- Red and blue Cerachrom ceramic bezel
- Caliber 3285 GMT movement
- Jubilee bracelet configuration
- Approximately 70 hours of power reserve
- 100 meters of water resistance
After its removal from Rolex’s catalog, collector interest increased significantly because production had effectively ended for a reference that already had years of strong demand.
The History Behind the Rolex Pepsi GMT
The story of the GMT Master II begins in the 1950s when Rolex developed a watch specifically for international pilots. During the golden age of commercial aviation, pilots needed a reliable way to track multiple time zones while traveling across continents.
Rolex partnered with Pan American Airways to create the original GMT-Master. The watch introduced the famous 24-hour bezel system that allowed wearers to read another time zone instantly.
The original red and blue bezel became one of the most recognizable designs in luxury watch history.
Over the decades, Rolex continued improving the GMT-Master collection:
- Original aluminum bezel GMT-Master models
- GMT-Master II introduction
- Independent GMT hand functionality
- Ceramic Cerachrom bezel technology
- Modern Caliber 3285 movement
The modern Rolex Pepsi GMT 126710BLRO represents decades of development while maintaining the same design philosophy that made the original famous.
Rolex GMT-Master II 126710BLRO Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Rolex GMT-Master II |
| Reference | 126710BLRO |
| Nickname | Pepsi GMT |
| Case Size | 40mm |
| Material | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Red and blue Cerachrom ceramic |
| Movement | Rolex Caliber 3285 |
| Power Reserve | Approximately 70 hours |
| Bracelet | Jubilee bracelet |
Why the Rolex Pepsi GMT Became a Collector Favorite
The popularity of the Rolex Pepsi GMT comes from a combination of history, design, and scarcity. Unlike many luxury watches that rely only on aesthetics, the GMT-Master II has a genuine professional purpose connected to aviation and global travel.
1. Iconic Rolex Design
The red and blue bezel is instantly recognizable. Even people who are not watch collectors often associate this color combination with Rolex.
2. Limited Availability
Rolex sports models have consistently experienced high demand compared with supply. The Pepsi GMT became especially difficult to purchase through traditional retail channels.
3. Strong Collector Heritage
Collectors appreciate the connection between modern references and vintage GMT-Master models. The 126710BLRO successfully combines modern technology with historical design elements.
4. Everyday Wearability
Although considered a premium sports watch, the GMT-Master II works well as an everyday luxury watch. The stainless steel construction, comfortable bracelet, and versatile design make it suitable for travel, business, and casual wear.
Rolex Pepsi GMT vs Rolex Batman GMT
One of the most common comparisons among collectors is the Rolex Pepsi GMT versus the Rolex Batman GMT. Both watches belong to the GMT-Master II family and share similar technology, but their personalities are completely different.
| Rolex Pepsi GMT | Rolex Batman GMT | |
|---|---|---|
| Reference | 126710BLRO | 126710BLNR |
| Bezel Colors | Red and Blue | Blue and Black |
| Style | Classic and historic | Modern and understated |
| Collector Appeal | Extremely strong | Extremely strong |
| Personality | Bold and recognizable | Sporty and versatile |
Why Collectors Compare Pepsi and Batman GMT Models
The Pepsi and Batman represent two different interpretations of the GMT-Master II design. The Pepsi connects directly with Rolex history through its traditional red and blue color scheme, while the Batman offers a more contemporary appearance.
Collectors who want the most historically recognizable GMT often prefer the Pepsi. Buyers who want a more subtle daily-wear Rolex frequently choose the Batman GMT.
