Review
Miranda provides a candid two-week, on-wrist review of the Rolex GMT-Master II 'Pepsi' with a ceramic bezel, offering a nuanced perspective beyond initial impressions. This evaluation delves into the watch's comfort, aesthetic evolution, and the controversial Jubilee bracelet, providing valuable insights for potential owners.
I’ve had the loan of the new GMT Pepsi for 2 weeks, and today it went back to its grateful owner. This time has allowed me to fully evaluate this piece.
The first time I saw it, was in Basel and it was a very quick review. The lighting was suboptimal in the Rolex stand, and the meeting was rather rushed- these Rolex folks are very busy!
My instant reaction was not to like it- the colours on the bezel looked off, the centre link on the bracelet attaching to the case was rather inelegant.
So what now, after 2 weeks? Well, I really wanted to hated it. The whole hype thing annoys me.
The bezel: the colour really depends on the lighting. Most of the time though, it’s quite pleasant aesthetically. It’s still more on the pink/purple tinge though. But the finish is impeccable.
The end link- it’s still ugly- UNTIL you put it on the wrist. Then for some reason, it looks fine, maybe it’s the way it curves around your wrist.
Comfort wise it’s amazing. On of the most comfy watches I have ever worn. It’s also build and finished beautifully. I actually began to prefer this Jubilee bracelet over my Oyster on my Batman. The lack of hidden clasp is not an issue- all the 6542/1675/16750/16710 had a clasp on their Jubilee bracelets. So historically correct.
Overall: I wanted to hate this watch. But I couldn’t. It’s pretty much the perfect Rolex.
Damn L
Would I take it over my Batman- possibly, but ideally you need both as the contrast is quite sufficient to warrant it.
I’m afraid it’s another home run from the Crown.
The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 16710 represents a significant evolution in the brand's dual time zone offerings, succeeding the reference 16760. It maintained the core functionality of displaying two time zones simultaneously, distinguishing itself through a slimmer case profile compared to its predecessor and the introduction of different bezel insert options. This reference was produced for an extended period, allowing for various dial and bezel configurations that are of interest to collectors. It is a transitional model that bridges earlier five-digit references with modern six-digit iterations.
This reference features a 40 mm stainless steel case, housing the automatic caliber 3185, which provides a power reserve of 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, contributing to its water resistance of 100 meters. The bidirectional rotating bezel, often seen with a Pepsi (red and blue) aluminum insert, allows for tracking a third time zone. The dial is black, and the watch is typically paired with a steel Oyster bracelet.
For collectors, the 16710 is notable for its versatility and the variations available throughout its production run, including different luminova types on the dial and the availability of black, Coke (black and red), and Pepsi bezel inserts. Its position as a robust and functional tool watch, combined with its classic proportions and the reliability of its movement, makes it a frequently sought-after reference. It appeals to those who appreciate the traditional aesthetic of Rolex's GMT-Master II line before the introduction of ceramic bezels and larger cases.
This one is the next watch on my shopping list. A very practical travelling watch and it looks great in my eyes. Best, Kari
As a vintage man at heart I just can’t do Jubilee bracelets full stop. Every single vintage Rolex I’ve had all had oyster straps and that’s just what my eyes expect to see and when they don’t I get a feeling of something being wrong. I do own a vintage steel Datejust which has a Jubilee which I can just about put on. Thank you for the report but I’m still struggling with this setup. I am very happy though that this watch makes so many people very happy. Once again it’s a good job we are all diff
I had similar reservations when this watch was introduced. What put me off most was the Jubilee bracelet. But as a proud owner I can say that it’s a great watch. If you asked me now if I would change the Jubilee for an Oyster bracelet, the answer would be Nooooo!!!! without any hesitation. It really adds to the watch’s character. It’s a home run indeed and great value for money. Best, Volker
Good to see it's living up although the hype is way too much, imo. What do you think will happen to the Batman, with the older movement? Update the movement or discontinue? I think it's the latter
Have had it on the wrist when they got introduced in the NL. Had the Jubilee on for a very short time as, as you can imagine, loads of people at the party wanted the Pepsi in their hands. For the few minutes I had it on the wrist the comfort of that bracelet was definitely noticeable. But a few minutes are too short to really know. Shortly after the party the Root Beer came my way and I took it as I was surprised by it. Rose gold and steel seemed like a no no, but in real life the color combo wo
But you must be almost stupid not to get it as you can always make someone else happy with it.
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