The Rolex GMT-Master II Ref 126711, affectionately known as the "Pepsi" due to its iconic blue and red Cerachrom bezel insert, stands as a testament to Rolex's horological prowess and enduring design legacy. More than just a timekeeping instrument, it's a symbol of adventure, exploration, and sophisticated style. This article will delve deep into the features, history, and desirability of this particular model, comparing it to its predecessors and contemporaries, and exploring its place within the broader Rolex GMT-Master II lineage.
Beyond the conventional hour, minute, and seconds hands, the GMT-Master II boasts a fourth hand – the GMT hand – which independently tracks a second time zone. This crucial feature, born from the needs of Pan Am pilots navigating across multiple time zones, is the defining characteristic of the entire GMT-Master II line. The Ref 126711, however, takes this functionality and elevates it with modern materials and refinements, solidifying its position as a coveted piece within the collector's market.
A Legacy of Travel and Innovation: Tracing the GMT-Master II's Roots
To fully appreciate the Ref 126711, it's essential to understand its lineage. The original GMT-Master, reference 6542, debuted in the mid-1950s, a direct response to the burgeoning era of global air travel. Its successor, the ref 1675, introduced several improvements, including a more robust movement and a more legible dial. The evolution continued with the ref 16700, and then the significant leap to the ref 16710, a model often cited as a grail watch for many collectors. The ref 16710, with its aluminum bezel and the characteristic "Pepsi" color scheme, remains a highly sought-after classic, readily available on the pre-owned market and often compared to the newer ref 126711.
The ref 16710, often referred to as the "Coke" (for its red and black bezel) or "Pepsi" (for its red and blue bezel), depending on the bezel insert, set a high bar for subsequent models. Its popularity cemented the GMT-Master II's status as an icon, a watch that transcended its purely functional purpose to become a symbol of aspirational travel and refined taste. The introduction of the ceramic bezel in later models, like the ref 116710BLNR (the "Batman"), and the ref 126710BLNR, further solidified Rolex's commitment to innovation and durability. These models, often compared with the ref 126711, showcase a similar design language but with distinct bezel colorways. The "Batman" with its blue and black bezel represents a more modern and arguably sportier aesthetic.
The Ref 126711: A Modern Masterpiece
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