Choosing a Rolex GMT-Master II Replica
The GMT-Master II is defined by its travel-watch layout: a conventional hour hand,a separate 24-hour hand and a 24-hour bezel used to distinguish another time zone.
For buyers, however, the most visible differences between GMT-Master II references usually come from bezel color, bracelet type, case material and generation.
Names such as Pepsi, Batman, Coke and Root Beer are useful shortcuts, but they should not replace the reference number. Different generations can share similar color combinations while using different cases, bracelets or bezel materials.
Popular GMT-Master II Bezel Styles
Pepsi – Red and Blue
The red-and-blue GMT bezel is one of the longest-established color combinations associated with the collection. Modern references such as the 126710BLRO use the familiar two-color appearance, while earlier Pepsi references have noticeably different case and bezel proportions.
Batman and Batgirl – Blue and Black
Blue-and-black GMT-Master II designs are commonly associated with BLNR references.
The terms Batman and Batgirl are often used informally to distinguish bracelet
configurations, particularly Oyster-style and Jubilee-style versions. Because sellers sometimes use these nicknames differently, the reference and bracelet shown in the product photographs should be the final comparison point.
Root Beer – Brown and Black
Modern CHNR configurations combine brown and black bezel sections with warmer metal tones.
The 126715CHNR is associated with an Everose-gold appearance, while other Root Beer-style GMT models may use two-tone configurations.
Coke – Red and Black
The Coke nickname is associated primarily with earlier red-and-black GMT references such as the 16710. These pre-ceramic designs have a noticeably different character from current GMT-Master II references and appeal to buyers who prefer the older case and bezel style.
VTNR and Left-Handed GMT Designs
The VTNR configuration reverses several familiar GMT design elements by placing the crown and date display on the opposite side of the case. It is one of the easiest modern GMT-Master II layouts to distinguish visually, so crown position and bezel color are important details to compare.
Oyster vs Jubilee-Style Bracelets
Bracelet choice changes the appearance of a GMT-Master II considerably. An Oyster-style bracelet uses broader three-piece links and gives the watch a more tool-watch appearance,while a Jubilee-style bracelet uses smaller multi-piece links and creates a more detailed look. Some references are strongly associated with one bracelet, while others are seen in multiple configurations.
Modern Ceramic vs Earlier GMT Designs
Modern GMT-Master II references commonly use ceramic-style bezel inserts with strong,clearly divided color sections. Earlier references such as the 16710 belong to the pre-ceramic era and have different bezel, case and bracelet proportions. Buyers looking for a specific historical appearance should therefore compare generations separately.
What to Compare on a GMT-Master II
- Start with the full reference number.
- Confirm the bezel color combination.
- Compare modern ceramic-style and older pre-ceramic designs.
- Choose between Oyster and Jubilee-style bracelets where applicable.
- Check the position and shape of the 24-hour hand.
- Compare date-window and Cyclops-style magnifier alignment.
- Review individual product specifications for movement and material details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Pepsi, Batman and Root Beer mean?
They are collector nicknames based mainly on GMT-Master II bezel color combinations.Pepsi generally refers to red and blue, Batman to blue and black, and Root Beer to brown and black. The exact reference remains more reliable than the nickname alone.
What is the difference between an Oyster and Jubilee GMT bracelet?
The Oyster-style bracelet uses a broader three-link appearance, while the Jubilee-style design uses smaller multi-piece links. Bracelet choice affects both the appearance and the way the watch sits on the wrist.
Is the 16710 the same generation as the 126710?
No. The 16710 belongs to an earlier GMT-Master II generation, while the 126710 family represents a modern design with substantially different bezel, case and movement-era characteristics.