The History of the Rolex Pepsi Bezel

The Rolex Pepsi bezel made its debut in 1954 with the GMT-Master model. Its red and blue colors were chosen for the Pan American Airways to differentiate AM from PM hours.

The bezel's two-tone color scheme was not only distinctive but also functional. It allowed pilots and travelers to track two time zones simultaneously, a groundbreaking feature at the time.

Beyond functionality, the Rolex Pepsi became an icon of style. Celebrities and public figures wearing it turned the watch into a symbol of luxury and adventure.

Originally, the bezel was made from acrylic. Rolex later introduced aluminum bezels, and eventually, Cerachrom, a proprietary ceramic, for improved durability and fade resistance.

Early references like the 6542 are highly coveted. Collectors prize vintage Pepsi models for their rarity and historical significance, often fetching high prices at auctions.

Over time, Rolex introduced new movements and features to the GMT-Master line, including independent hour-hand adjustments and increased power reserves, maintaining the watch's relevance.

The modern Rolex Pepsi, such as the GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLRO, continues the legacy with updated mechanisms and the iconic bezel, showing the brand's commitment to innovation while honoring its heritage.