Description
The “Pepsi” nickname originates from the red‑and‑blue bezel first introduced in 1955 with the GMT‑Master Ref. 6542, designed in collaboration with Pan Am Airways for pilots crossing multiple time zones. Over the decades, the model evolved with technical upgrades, including the introduction of sapphire crystal, ceramic bezels, and improved movements. The modern GMT‑Master II “Pepsi” continues this legacy, combining vintage aesthetics with contemporary engineering, and remains one of the most sought‑after references in Rolex’s catalog.
Rolex was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis, and quickly became synonymous with precision and innovation. Relocating to Geneva in 1919, the brand pioneered milestones such as the waterproof Oyster case in 1926 and the self‑winding Perpetual rotor in 1931. The GMT‑Master line, launched in the mid‑20th century, cemented Rolex’s reputation as the watchmaker of choice for professionals and adventurers. Today, Rolex remains privately owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, producing over a million watches annually and standing as a global symbol of prestige, durability, and timeless design.



