Introductory Summary
The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 126710BLRO, nicknamed "Pepsi", was produced from approximately 2018 on an Jubilee bracelet, with an oyster bracelet option added in 2021, to the present as part of the GMT-Master II line. It is defined by its 40mm Oystersteel case, red and blue Cerachrom bezel, and independent jumping GMT hand designed for multi-time-zone tracking. Within the range, it sits as a flagship steel reference, positioned between the outgoing 116710LN and the later Oyster bracelet variants of the same model number.
Core Specifications
- Brand: Rolex
- Collection: GMT-Master II
- Reference: 126710BLRO
- Nickname: Pepsi
- Production Start: 2018
- Status: Active Production
- Case Size: 40mm
- Case Material: Oystersteel (904L stainless steel)
- Bezel: Blue & Red Cerachrom ceramic bezel, unidirectional
- Dial: Black
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Bracelet/Strap: Jubilee Bracelet
- Movement: Rolex Calibre 3285
- Power Reserve: 70 Hours
- Water Resistance: 100m / 330ft
Reference Profile
The reference 126710BLRO follows Rolex’s internal naming convention, where the designation reflects the GMT-Master II family and the red/blue bezel configuration. The design intent focused on a modernised professional travel watch, incorporating the new-generation calibre 3285, a Jubilee bracelet reintroduction, and a ceramic Pepsi bezel rendered in Cerachrom. Contemporary documentation places this reference within a period of incremental technical upgrades and strong demand for heritage colourways, and it has since been adopted by collectors primarily for its design continuity, wearability, and modern movement architecture.
Movement Overview
This reference is powered by the Rolex calibre 3285, an automatic movement developed during Rolex’s modern high-efficiency calibre generation. The calibre operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and provides an approximate power reserve of 70 hours. It is regarded as technically mature and robust, with servicing considerations consistent with current-production Rolex movements featuring Chronergy escapement and extended service intervals.
Functions & Complications
The watch displays time and date with an additional GMT complication, with functions arranged via crown adjustment and bidirectional bezel interaction. Complications include an independently adjustable 24-hour hand and date function linked to local time changes. The overall functionality reflects the reference’s intended use as a professional travel instrument and daily wearable sports watch.
Buyer Considerations
Prospective owners should account for overall condition, bracelet stretch, and service history, particularly with respect to bezel condition and movement performance. Replacement parts availability is readily available due to ongoing production and Rolex service support. This reference is generally best suited to buyers seeking daily wear practicality and long-term collection stability rather than short-term speculative appreciation.
Comparisons & Aternatives
Watches with a similar visual profile include the Rolex GMT-Master II reference 116710BLNR, which shares a comparable case shape and dial layout but differs in bezel colour and earlier movement generation. The Rolex reference 16710 offers a near-identical aesthetic with interchangeable aluminium bezel inserts, though it is distinguished by its earlier production era and lighter construction. Compared to these alternatives, the present reference is typically regarded as more technically refined and durable, while maintaining strong lineage to earlier GMT-Master II models.
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