The Rolex GMT-Master II "Pepsi," with its iconic two-tone blue and red Cerachrom bezel, has long held a coveted position in the world of luxury watches. Its enduring appeal stems from a potent combination of history, functionality, and undeniable style. While the focus of this article is on the 2018 pricing of the Pepsi GMT-Master II, understanding its value requires a broader look at the watch's history and the factors influencing its price fluctuations. This journey will explore not only the 2018 market but also provide context by briefly touching upon current prices and future projections. We will avoid focusing on the Rolex Submariner "Hulk" (reference 116610LV) mentioned in the prompt, as it is a distinct model with a separate price history.
The Rolex Pepsi: A Brief History
The story of the Pepsi GMT-Master II begins in the late 1950s, when Pan Am pilots needed a watch capable of tracking multiple time zones. Rolex responded with the GMT-Master, featuring a rotating bezel with a 24-hour graduated scale. The early models boasted a Bakelite bezel in various color combinations, with the red and blue "Pepsi" bezel becoming particularly iconic. This color scheme, reminiscent of the Pepsi-Cola logo, quickly gained popularity, cementing its place in watchmaking history.
Over the decades, the GMT-Master II underwent several iterations, incorporating advancements in materials and technology. The transition from Bakelite to aluminum, and later to the nearly indestructible Cerachrom ceramic bezel, marked significant milestones. These changes, coupled with fluctuating demand and market trends, have resulted in considerable price variations over the years.
Rolex Pepsi Price in 2018: A Market Snapshot
Pinpointing the exact price of a Rolex Pepsi in 2018 is challenging due to several factors. The price varied depending on the specific reference number (e.g., 16710, 116710BLRO), condition (new, pre-owned, and the extent of any wear), and the seller (authorized dealer, grey market dealer, or private individual).
Generally speaking, in 2018, the pre-owned market saw prices for the earlier generation Pepsi GMT-Master II references (like the 16710) commanding a significant premium compared to their original retail price. These watches, discontinued for several years, benefited from increased desirability and collector interest. Their prices were often influenced by factors like box and papers (original packaging and documentation) and overall condition.
The newer generation Pepsi GMT-Master II (reference 116710BLRO), introduced in 2014, was still relatively new in 2018. While still commanding a price above its retail price, the premium wasn't as dramatic as that seen for the discontinued models. The retail price in 2018 for the 116710BLRO was approximately $9,500 USD. However, finding one at retail price was exceptionally difficult due to high demand and limited availability. The grey market price often exceeded this significantly, sometimes reaching $12,000 - $15,000 USD or more, depending on condition and seller.
Factors Influencing Rolex Pepsi Prices:
Several key factors contribute to the fluctuating price of a Rolex Pepsi:
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