What Is a Pepsi Watch? (And Why You Need One)

Don’t just think the Pepsi watch is exclusive to Rolex only. Here’s the scoop on “What is a Pepsi watch?”.

Pink and green, never to be seen, as the saying goes. Oh, and you should never wear brown with black! Red and blue together? Surely those colors are a hideous clash? It seems not, especially where the Rolex GMT-Master watch is concerned. The first and second-generation (GMT-Master II) watches are famous for one thing above all else—their striking red and blue 24-hour bezels. Of course, there are other popular combinations, too, like the blue and black Rolex GMT-Master II Batman. 

Given the success of the Rolex Pepsi watch, it’s no surprise that many brands have attempted their versions. Some of these recreations are awesome, some not so much. In this article, we’re only rounding up the best. So, if you’re in the market for a Pepsi watch, you’re in the right place. 

What Is a Pepsi Watch?

A Pepsi watch is any timepiece featuring the iconic red and blue bezel. The bezel, which is the defining feature of this watch style, can be made of Bakelite, ceramic, or aluminum. Many don’t realize that the name does not refer exclusively to the Rolex GMT-Master or GMT-Master II line. While Rolex crafts these watches from stainless steel or white gold, Pepsi watches can be made of any material. 

Most watches with the Pepsi name feature a 24-hour bezel, 12-hour hand, and GMT hand. The bi-color bezel design is practical and stylish, making it a fan favorite. 

What Is the Pepsi Rolex Watch?

The Pepsi Rolex watch is a GMT complication that simultaneously tracks two or three time zones. It features a black dial and an instantly recognizable red and blue bezel that many brands have attempted to recreate. The beauty of the red and blue bezel is not just for aesthetical purposes, though. It helped pilots separate daytime and nighttime hours at a glance. Admittedly, there have been subtle upgrades in bezel materials, case sizes, and movements over the years. Despite this, the core and all-important attributes of the Pepsi remain untouched. 

When shopping for a modern GMT-Master II watch, you can expect to pay around 14,000 USD for pre-2014 models. Post-2014, you’ll be looking in the region of 10,000 USD. That said, 2020 prices rose to around $36-40k before dropping again. Given their demand, it seems sensible that many enthusiasts are looking for an affordable alternative; cue this helpful guide. 

The Appeal of the Pepsi Bezel 

Thanks to a heady brew of cryptocurrency wealth and low interest rates, the surge in luxury Swiss watches topped out in 2022. It has been slowly sliding back down ever since. Although the market is only just beginning to show signs of leveling out, Rolex GMT-Master watches are bucking the trend. With its genius red and blue color palette, the Pepsi watch still sells for thousands more than its retail price. 

The original Rolex Pepsi, with its two-tone bezel and 24-hour hand, became the ultimate utilitarian pilot’s watch. But over the years, the switch to a ceramic bezel minimized the color options available in this line. However, a decade ago, Rolex managed to match the original red color from the 1950s, catapulting it into success. 

This top performer is still in production; you can purchase it at retail price. However, good luck locating a dealer who will agree to give you one. And on the pre-owned market, prices are double, making the Pepsi one of the best investments for 2024. So, if you own one and you’re a seller, think yourself lucky. You’re in a win-win situation right now. If you love the Rolex GMT-Master for what it is, hold onto it and enjoy it. If you want to sell it, name your price! Collectors are queuing up to get their hands on one. 

The Collectible Vintage Pepsi Watch

In 1955, Rolex released the GMT-Master reference 6542, complete with a red and blue Bakelite bezel. Synthetic resin was a popular material, promising heat, shatter, and temperature resistance back then. Within four years of this first Pepsi watch, Rolex released the reference 1675 with a Bakelite and aluminum bezel. Rolex made the former model for Pan American Airlines, enabling pilots to track two time zones simultaneously. Wearers could quickly differentiate between day and night thanks to this two-tone bezel. Finding one of these references today is quite the challenge, nearly impossible, in fact. It’s one of the most desirable models of the entire range. 

The second release was the 1675, complete with a new crown guard and a larger 40mm case size. The former was a nice compact 38mm-sized watch for small wrists. It’s not uncommon for these models to feature faded bezels. But I can assure you, the fuchsia and lighter blue models are just as popular, if not more. There’s just something about a patina case and a faded bezel. 

The 1980s saw the release of the reference 16750. Earlier models of this reference featured matte dials, but Rolex soon switched to glossy dials. Then came the 16700 reference—the last reference before the GMT-Master II. The latter introduced an independently adjustable 12-hour and 24-hour hand, making it all the more appealing to collectors. The 16700 became the more affordable option between itself and the GMT-Master II watches. 

We classify all the references you just read about as vintage Pepsi watches. They are all highly collectible and fairly expensive, depending on their condition and who’s asking. 

The Best Pepsi Watches

If you want to avoid knockoffs, this guide to the best Pepsi watches has what you need. The models on this list prove that you don’t need to compromise on functionality and materials when spending less. 

1. Oceaneva GMT Automatic 1250M

We’re off to a strong start with the Oceaeva GMT Automatic watch. Its spec supersedes the Rolex GMT-Master II by a mile! I bet you weren’t expecting that. It combines the classic red and blue bezel (albeit brighter than the Rolex original) with 1250-meter water resistance. 

The Oceaneva GMT watch also features a black bezel, a red GMT hand, and a robust steel bracelet. This 42mm travel companion uses one of Seiko’s movements. The beating caliber NH34, lying at its center, is capable of a 41-hour power reserve. 

2. TAG Heuer Aquaracer Calibre 7 GMT

If Pepsi watches inspired by the 1960s “Grandad” era give you the ick, turn to something like the TAG Heuer Aquaracer Calibre 7 GMT. It’s a solid tool with an impressive spec that includes a 43mm steel case, a Cyclops date, and an Oyster-like bracelet.  

This is a muscular, masculine design, so it’s not the perfect size for slender wrists. Still, if your wrist can take it, you know you can’t go wrong with this more contemporary choice. I like the chiseled design of the bezel, which strays from the iconic Rolex. Oh, and the luminous features on this dial are superb!

3. Baltic Aquascaphe GMT Orange

Okay, so it’s blue and orange, not red and orange, but it’s just too good not to mention. This Aquascaphe GMT watch from Baltic is the tool you want by your side when you’re on vacation next summer. You might have to stretch your imagination a little. However, besides the color difference, most other features resemble the Rolex icon. 

The Baltic watch is vibrant, sporty, and eye-catching. It measures 39 mm in diameter and is great for smaller wrists. This steel model has a glossy black dial and an Arabic 12 o’clock marker for added quirkiness. It sits under a double-dome sapphire crystal, enabling a view into the dial from the side.  

4. Timex Harborside

Timex watches are synonymous with affordability. So, consider this option if budget-cutting is essential to you while searching for the ultimate Pepsi watch. The Timex Harborside is quite a close-looking iteration. It even features the Mercedes hands! A rich black dial, luminous dial appliques, and magnified date bring the design together. For less than $300, you also get an in-house movement. Therefore, this recommendation is one of the best value propositions on the market for the budget watch collector. 

5. Ball Roadmaster Marine GMT Ceramic

This Ball Roadmaster Marine GMT offers next-level dial legibility and a striking Pepsi bezel. This is all thanks to the brand’s innovative light luminosity technology. With 28 micro gas tubes on the dial, timekeeping while traveling throughout the night is a synch. The watch also features a day-date complication and a lightweight titanium case. 

This 40mm watch is compact and manageable for daily wear. It also features a tapered titanium bracelet and 200-meter water resistance. Apart from the recognizable red and blue bezel, the Ball Roadmaster has very little in common with the Rolex Pepsi. But a Pepsi watch it is all the same and a high-quality yet affordable one at that. 

6. Lorier Hyperion GMT

If you’re a vintage purist, the Lorier Hyperion GMT watch is a pretty neat option. It honors the archetypal GMT design, with Bakelite-esque Air Force colors of blue and burgundy on the bezel. I especially like the gilt print on this classic black dial. Lorier chooses the new Epsilon bracelet featuring flat brushed links to complete its retro design. The lumed bezel inserts are another fetching feature, emphasizing the practical qualities of this watch. This model borrows Seiko’s Hesalite crystal and features a Miyota 9075 automatic, which sits inside a compact 39mm case. 

7. Tudor Black Bay GMT

Some may say the TUDOR Black Bay GMT is the most authentic take on the iconic GMT-Master II watch. It would make sense since TUDOR is the sister brand to Rolex. This Black Bay GMT model offers a color combination similar to the original. The bi-color 24-hour track frames the brand’s signature Snowflake hands, perfectly blending TUDOR hallmarks with the Pepsi. 

This design showcases several cutting-edge features. They include 200M water resistance, a TUDOR emblem-engraved crown, and a riveted bracelet with a T-Fit clasp. The latter enables the wearer to make small adjustments to the bracelet’s size without the need for tools. 

8. Steinhart Ocean 39 Vintage GMT BLUE-RED Ceramic

Last but not least is the Steinhart Ocean 39 Vintage GMT watch with a rather retro-looking red and blue bezel. If you like vintage dive watches, you’ll love the faux-aged lume on this model’s black dial. Steinhart are masters of homage watches and have certainly smashed this Pepsi out of the park. It features a ceramic bezel and a 300-meter water-resistant case. This 39mm model is gentle on the slender wrist and promises a superb price-to-quality ratio. And just look at that faded red GMT hand.

FAQs

As popular variations of the Rolex GMT-Master, Pepsi watches resemble the popular soft drink with their half-and-half bezel in blue and red. If you’re considering investing in this watch style, these FAQs may help. 

Who Makes Pepsi Watches?

Many manufacturers, such as TAG Heuer, Seiko, and TUDOR, make Pepsi watches. However, Rolex is the most famous luxury watch brand specializing in this distinctive design. 

Is the Pepsi Rolex Discontinued?

The Rolex Pepsi watch, also known as the GMT-Master II watch, remains in production and is still available for purchase. Due to popular demand, waiting lists are long, while some second-hand models sell for exorbitant prices. 

Why Is It Called a Pepsi Watch?

The Pepsi watch takes its name from the iconic soft drink manufactured by Pepsi. After Rolex launched its first 1950s GMT watch with a red and blue bezel, the name became synonymous with luxury timekeeping. 

What Is a Pepsi Watch? Final Thoughts

The Pepsi bezel watch has been turning heads since 1955 and is still as iconic as ever. Even though it’s a polarizing design, it certainly cemented its place in the Horology Hall of Fame. What’s so fascinating about the design is that it’s not just an aesthetic timepiece. The Pepsi bezel represents groundbreaking technology that changed how watchmakers (and pilots) did their jobs.

Today, all kinds of Pepsi watches are available, and it’s easier than ever to get one, no matter your budget. If you’re already a fan of GMT watches and don’t yet have a Pepsi dial in your collection, get one.  You owe it to yourself to consider picking one up and experiencing it for yourself. 

Do you have a Pepsi watch in your collection? Leave your comments below, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter at The Slender Wrist right now!