Rolex's release of the steel Pepsi GMT-Master II at Baselworld 2018 was nothing short of a sensation. The anticipation leading up to the unveiling was palpable, and the subsequent reaction solidified its place in horological history. This article will delve into the release date of this highly sought-after timepiece, explore its market performance, examine related models and their release dates, and address common questions surrounding its availability, pricing, and unique features.
The specific release date for the steel Rolex GMT-Master II "Pepsi" (reference 126710BLRO) at Baselworld 2018 was March 21, 2018. This date marked the beginning of a new era for the iconic two-tone bezel GMT, bringing back the beloved Pepsi color scheme in a modern, updated package. This 40 mm watch, outfitted with the in-house Calibre 3285 movement, represented a significant upgrade in terms of accuracy, power reserve, and overall performance compared to its predecessors. The anticipation was largely fueled by the long hiatus of a steel Pepsi GMT-Master II, with the previous iteration being discontinued years prior. This created a significant backlog of demand, leading to the watch's immediate popularity and subsequent long waitlists.
Rolex GMT Pepsi Discontinued:
Before the 2018 release, the steel Pepsi GMT-Master II was indeed discontinued. The exact discontinuation date is less precise, as Rolex doesn't usually announce discontinuations with specific dates. However, the last readily available iterations were likely phased out sometime in the mid-2010s. The absence of a readily available steel Pepsi for several years significantly contributed to the excitement surrounding the 2018 release. Collectors and enthusiasts eagerly awaited the return of this classic design in a modern, updated form.
Rolex GMT Pepsi 2020, Rolex GMT Pepsi for Sale, Rolex Pepsi 2021 Price:
The years following the 2018 release saw the Rolex GMT Pepsi maintain its immense popularity. In 2020, the watch remained highly sought after, with demand consistently outpacing supply. Finding a Rolex GMT Pepsi for sale at authorized retailers remained extremely difficult, often requiring years-long waitlists. The grey market, where pre-owned and new watches are sold outside of authorized channels, became a significant source for those seeking immediate ownership. However, prices on the grey market were, and continue to be, significantly inflated above the retail price.
Determining a precise Rolex Pepsi 2021 price is challenging due to the grey market's fluctuations. Prices varied based on condition, box and papers, and the specific seller. However, it's safe to say that the price was considerably above the retail price of approximately $9,700 USD at the time. This substantial premium reflects the watch's high demand and limited availability.
Rolex GMT Pepsi Holes:
The reference 126710BLRO, released in 2018, features what some refer to as "holes" in the bracelet. These are not technically holes, but rather the design of the bracelet links themselves. This design element is a characteristic of the Jubilee bracelet and is a stylistic choice, not a functional feature. These subtly designed links contribute to the bracelet's flexibility and comfort. The presence or absence of these "holes" is often a topic of discussion among collectors, with some preferring the aesthetic of this specific bracelet design.
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