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| Movement | In-house swiss automatic | Swiss automatic | Swiss automatic | Automatic |
| Case Size | 40mm | 39mm | 41mm | 40mm |
| Lug to Lug | 48mm | 47mm | 50mm | 48mm |
| Band | Stainless steel bracelet | Stainless steel bracelet | Stainless steel bracelet | Stainless steel bracelet |
| Water Resistance | 100m | 300m | 200m | 30m |
| Key Benefits |
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| Get It |
Buy Now at Bob’s Watches
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Buy Now at Steinhart
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Buy Now at Amazon | Buy Now at Amazon |
Rolex GMT-Master II
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| Movement | In-house swiss automatic |
| Case Size | 40mm |
| Lug to Lug | 48mm |
| Band | Stainless steel bracelet |
| Water Resistance | 100m |
| Key Benefits |
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| Get It |
Buy Now at Bob’s Watches
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Ocean 39 Vintage GMT Premium Ceramic
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| Movement | Swiss automatic |
| Case Size | 39mm |
| Lug to Lug | 47mm |
| Band | Stainless steel bracelet |
| Water Resistance | 300m |
| Key Benefits |
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| Get It |
Buy Now at Steinhart
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Tudor Black Bay GMT Pepsi
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| Movement | Swiss automatic |
| Case Size | 41mm |
| Lug to Lug | 50mm |
| Band | Stainless steel bracelet |
| Water Resistance | 200m |
| Key Benefits |
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| Get It | Buy Now at Amazon |
Parnis GMT
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| Movement | Automatic |
| Case Size | 40mm |
| Lug to Lug | 48mm |
| Band | Stainless steel bracelet |
| Water Resistance | 30m |
| Key Benefits |
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| Get It | Buy Now at Amazon |
While the Submariner may have launched a thousand homages, the GMT-Master started a trend that became a staple.
The original Rolex GMT-Master’s blue and red bezel was meant to differentiate AM and PM time zones in a clear and at-a-glance way for pilots. The unique look became associated with jetset glamor and is still a popular design today for traveler’s watches.
Still, a GMT-Master II can set you back anywhere between $11,000 to upwards towards $100,000.
So, we’ve rounded up six Rolex Pepsi-bezel GMT-Master homages, as well as three alternatives. These are the best available, so read on to find out which is the best for you.
How Did I Come Up With My List?
I’ve come across countless GMT-Masters having worked in the watch auction world. Using this years-long experience, as well as my experience with countless homages (including many that didn’t make this list), I rounded up the best on the market.
I also deliberated with watch collectors, specialists in my field, and watch-collecting colleagues. This is in addition to spending hours reading and watching reviews, and diving into forums and Reddit threads, in order to cast a wide net of perspectives and priorities.
6 Best Rolex Pepsi GMT-Master Homages
Image Source: Steinhart
Steinhart goes above and beyond when it comes quality-for-price, and their Ocean 39 Vintage GMT Ceramic in Pepsi is no exception.
The satin stainless steel build is flawless, even on the oyster bracelet, while the sapphire crystal is double-coated with anti-reflective treatment.
They don’t stray too far from the GMT-Master template, but they do get originality points for combining the faux-vintage hands and indices with a fully-modern ceramic bezel. This means the Ocean 39 will look perfectly vintage, aka not too new and too aged, for years to come.
Not one for shortcuts, Steinhart famously employs the Elaboré version of Sellita’s SW200 movement, which is a 25-jewel automatic that’s adjusted for more accuracy. Through the caseback, you can admire this caliber, which is decorated with a golden rotor and beautiful blue screws.
What I Like
- The fade-proof and vibrant ceramic bezel partnered with the tropical hands and indices perfectly combine new and vintage aesthetics, and are two qualities you typically have to choose between.
- The Elaboré Sellita SW200 movement is accurate, exquisitely decorated, and can be viewed through the watch’s caseback.
- This watch is equipped with diver qualities including 300m of water resistance and a crisp bezel, providing maximum functionality.
What I Don’t Like
- The lume is sufficient, but surprisingly weak considering how premium all of the other functions on the watch are.
What Do Other Reviewers Say?
Reviewers agree that while this watch isn’t the cheapest homage out there, it undeniably knocks it out of the park when it comes to performance for cost.
Many also mention how fun and easy this watch is to use. Its bezel is crisp and strong, and the safety deployment clasp offers smooth action.
The Verdict
The Steinhart Ocean 39 Vintage GMT Premium Ceramic is our top pick for three reasons. You get a lot of function out of this timepiece, thanks to its combination of dive watch and travel watch features. Second, each function is premiumly-built, from the Swiss Elaboré movement to the hard-clicking bezel and effortless bracelet operation.
Finally, It looks just like a Rolex, with the signature Steinhart remixing. It’s a handsome watch that combines features from different GMT-Masters.
The Steinhart Ocean 39 Vintage GMT Premium Ceramic is our top pick for three reasons. You get a lot of function out of this timepiece, thanks to its combination of dive watch and travel watch features. Second, each function is premiumly-built, from the Swiss Elaboré movement to the hard-clicking bezel and effortless bracelet operation.
A Swiss hard-hitter in its own right, the Pepsi-bezel Tudor Black Bay GMT has all the makings of a luxury watch. The application is immaculate, the steel is brushed for attractive lightplay at every angle, and the bezel is brightly-colored and durably-built with anodised metal.
Some Tudor twists include the iconic snowflake hands and diamond-shaped accents on the GMT and second pointers, which give the watch a more modern look. There’s also the guardless crown for a cleaner silhouette.
Like the Rolex, this watch is a master Chronometer, which means the movement was subjected to several tests for accuracy under pressure.
What I Like
- The blue and burgundy bidirectional bezel features a graduated anodised aluminum disc for extra strength and scratch-resistance.
- The COSC-certified Chronometer boasts world-class performance and durability, and a 70-hour power reserve.
- Tudor offers a transferable five
What I Don’t Like
- While this watch is more affordable than a GMT-Master, it’s still a luxury timepiece that can sometimes be just as hard to get a hold of thanks to wait lists and upcharges on the secondary market.
What Do Other Reviewers Say?
Reviewers praise this watch for its Rolex-level build, finish, and performance. Collectors who love the Pepsi look, but think that Rolex is too obvious, often turn to this Black Bay.
Reviewers love that it features Tudor-specific qualities that distinguish it from the GMT-Master. Additionally since the brands are in the same family, many believe that Tudor has more of a right to flaunt this color palette than other brands do, giving it a certain legitimacy.
The Verdict
Like the GMT-Master II, the Tudor Black Bay GMT is a Swiss-made Chronometer for travelers. If you’re looking for a luxury brand homage, built as close to Rolex standards as possible at a lower price point, this watch is for you. Plus, as much as it looks like its source material, few would consider it “copy.”
Like the GMT-Master II, the Tudor Black Bay GMT is a Swiss-made Chronometer for travelers. If you’re looking for a luxury brand homage, built as close to Rolex standards as possible at a lower price point, this watch is for you. Plus, as much as it looks like its source material, few would consider it “copy.”
As with most Parnis homages, this GMT is essentially a legal replica. Fortunately, they have the look down pat, from the Mercedes hand and lollipop second, to the perfectly proportioned Pepsi bezel.
This is also one of the Parnis models that doesn’t put a logo on the face, for a cleaner, more brand-anonymous look.
For a premium, you can upgrade your watch on the Parnis website, with a sapphire crystal, additional water-proofing, or a swan neck, which regulates the movement’s pace for more reliability and less need for servicing.
Sure, these are all things you can probably do yourself if you’re a modder, but it’s nice to have options to save time and effort.
What I Like
- Parnis does a commendable job of recreating the face and bezel of the GMT-Master II, all the way down to the spacing and font.
- On the Parnis website, there are upgrade options available for a cost premium, including more water resistance and a scratch-resistant sapphire.
- The 316L stainless steel and automatic movement offers compelling value for cost.
What I Don’t Like
- At its standard model, this watch isn’t water resistant at all.
- Catching the threads on the screw down crown is almost impossible, making it difficult to operate.
What Do Other Reviewers Say?
When it comes to the GMT-Master II, Parnis is a popular choice among forum-goers because of its attention to detail
I, and many reviewers, recommend being diligent (and patient) when dealing with online Parnis sellers from Asia.
This Reddit reviewer received an ill-fitting bracelet, while another Parnis-buyer didn’t receive the extra links he requested, and has an ill-fitting watch as a result.
The Verdict
If visuals are your main priority, then the Parnis GMT watch is for you. It’s also a good option for if you’re the kind of homage seeker who loves a brandless approach.
With its automatic movement and 316L stainless steel construction, this GMT is definitely a great buy.
If visuals are your main priority, then the Parnis GMT watch is for you. It’s also a good option for if you’re the kind of homage seeker who loves a brandless approach. With its automatic movement and 316L stainless steel construction, this GMT is definitely a great buy.
Seiko is known for simultaneously copying luxury Swiss brands in order to “learn from the best” while also implementing their own unique contributions to horology. The SKX009 does a little bit of both.
It’s one of few GMT-Master II homages that goes for a Jubilee-style bracelet instead of the oyster, which adds complexity and shine. Meanwhile, the red portion only takes up a forth of the bezel, which makes it unique from its Rolex inspiration without compromising its vibe.
The 7S26 movement is simple and basic, but incredibly reliable. No surprise there, since it’s Seiko.
And though the diameter of the case is 42mm, the lugs are pretty moderate making this watch a comfortable wear for most wrists.
What I Like
- The 1/4th red portion on the bezel goes a slightly different direction than its source material, distinguishing it from the GMT-Master II and many other Pepsi watches.
- The five-link stainless steel bracelet looks like a formal Jubilee style strap, giving this watch a touch of elegance.
- Seiko has a large and enthusiastic fanbase, prevalent online, which is a helpful resource for any questions or support.
What I Don’t Like
- As with many discontinued Seiko watches, this model isn’t terribly difficult to find yet, but the price is definitely going up.
- It isn’t actually a GMT watch.
What Do Other Reviewers Say?
Many reviewers and forum-goers recommend this watch to those who want a Pepsi timepiece from a “proper brand” that “won’t be called knock-off.”
The Seiko 7S26 caliber is a respected heritage movement, but many are disappointed with its lack of hand-winding and hacking.
The Verdict
An homage in looks only, the SKX009 uses the Pepsi color palette and the Rolex inspiration, but reorganizes it to build a Seiko-specific timepiece. It’s practical, function-forward, and has a fun design.
And while it isn’t actually a GMT watch, it’s a perfectly capable dive with 200m of water resistance and an excellent bezel.
An homage in looks only, the SKX009 uses the Pepsi color palette and the Rolex inspiration, but reorganizes it to build a Seiko-specific timepiece. It’s practical, function-forward, and has a fun design. And while it isn’t actually a GMT watch, it’s a perfectly capable dive with 200m of water resistance and an excellent bezel.
The Orient Mako II has a lot in common with our previous Seiko entry. They’re both Japanese dives inspired by the Pepsi GMT-Master, which go the 1/4th red bezel route.
Still, the Arabic markers (in font that looks like unbroken digital numbers), sword hands, and simple oyster bracelet, make this watch look more modern and more tool-like. This difference is also expressed through the in-house automatic movement.
Orient’s F6922 caliber is as robust as any Seiko workhorse, but comes with the perks of handwinding and hacking. It’s also equipped with DiaShock, Seiko’s effective anti-shock absorber.
What I Like
- This watch sports a classic Pepsi look with modern touches like the 3/4ths blue bezel that makes the remaining red look like a fun splash of color, the bold Arabic numerals, and the sword hands.
- The dive functions, which include 200m of water resistance and a 120-click bezel for improved precision, are impressive for its price.
- The reliable in-house movement features hand winding and hacking for ease of use.
What I Don’t Like
- This watch also isn’t a real GMT.
- The crown is small and difficult to unscrew.
What Do Other Reviewers Say?
This dive is a highly-rated timepiece on review sites and online sellers alike.
It’s referred to as a “serious watch at a low price” and a “modern classic.” And while Orient reports an accuracy within -15 second – +25 seconds per day, most reviewers mention that it gains around five or six a day, which is more than competent for this price point.
The Verdict
For just a few dollars more than a Parnis, you can have a unique and respectable Pepsi watch in its own right. Of course, you’d be sacrificing the GMT component of it, but if all you care about is the color scheme, then the Orient Mako II is a high-value dive that definitely wins extra points for its legibility.
For just a few dollars more than a Parnis, you can have a unique and respectable Pepsi watch in its own right. Of course, you’d be sacrificing the GMT component of it, but if all you care about is the color scheme, then the Orient Mako II is a high-value dive that definitely wins extra points for its legibility.
Image Source: Marc & Sons
Marc & Son’s Pepsi GMT is hand-made in Germany, often considered the runner-up watch capital behind Switzerland. What’s special about this watch is that it combines the classic red-and-blue bezel with another popular GMT-Master colorway: the “Rootbeer” GMT-Master.
Its case is CuSn8 bronze, which is rose gold in color and has excellent strength and elasticity.
Attached to that is the double anti-reflective sapphire glass and the unidirectional aluminum bezel. You can also opt out of the cyclops magnifier if you prefer a cleaner look.
And unlike most combination tool watches that skimp out on one function or another, this GMT/dive has a whopping 500 meters of water resistance.
What I Like
- The Pepsi bezel is complemented by a rose gold-toned case and accented hands, for a unique combination inspired by different GMT-Master references.
- Between the German hand-made build and Swiss automatic movement, this watch has high-end construction inside and out.
- Marc & Sons ships anywhere in the world for free and offers a two-year warranty.
What I Don’t Like
- The finishing on the case is pretty standard, which is disappointing at this price point. For almost a grand, I’d like something distinct or brand-specific, but it seems like they thought the unique bronze color would be enough.
What Do Other Reviewers Say?
The brand gets good reviews for the quality and prices of their watches. Smaller German brands are almost like a cheat code in the watch world, when it comes to finding well-priced and upscale timepieces.
Reviewers obviously praise the 500 meters of water resistance, but the brilliant lume, which is Superluminova BGW-9, gets a lot of love too.
The Verdict
If you’re looking for a sophisticated Pepsi-bezel watch that’s reminiscent of the GMT-Master II, but also goes its own way, the Marc & Sons GMT is a superb option. And while the combination Rootbeer-Pepsi approach is distinct and striking, its premium functions really take the watch over the top.
If you’re looking for a sophisticated Pepsi-bezel watch that’s reminiscent of the GMT-Master II, but also goes its own way, the Marc & Sons GMT is a superb option. And while the combination Rootbeer-Pepsi approach is distinct and striking, its premium functions really take the watch over the top.
3 Quality Rolex Pepsi GMT-Master Alternatives
While homages are built to be affordable look-alikes to the GMT-Master II, while alternatives are often equal in price and quality. They can come from competitor brands or even Rolex itself. The Yachtmaster, for example, can be considered an alternative to the Submariner since they’re both nautical watches.
A much sportier and brawny Pepsi watch, this Tag Heuer Aquaracer combines the dial’s dimensional racing stripes with a 12-sided polygon case, for an overall harder-edged watch than the GMT-Master II.
It runs on the brand’s Calibre 7, a reliable Swiss automatic with a 46-hour power reserve, that you can operate using the timepiece’s robust onion crown.
The exact same watch in a different colorway, the Batman version of the Rolex GMT-Master II is just as difficult to get a hold of as the Pepsi.
Before the technology to get red shades on ceramic was developed, the Batman was the only modern GMT-Master II around, earning it its own following. If you prefer a more understated two-tone bezel, blue with black definitely doesn’t stick out as much as blue with red.
The Omega Planet Ocean GMT is built with the world’s first bi-ceramic white and black bezel, which represents night and day.
Like the GMT-Master II, it runs on a COSC-certified Chronometer. Unlike the GMT-Master II, the Planet Ocean is also a dive watch—and a pretty hardcore dive at that. It can withstand 600 meters of water and comes with a helium-escape valve.
Which Rolex Pepsi GMT-Master Homage Should You Get?
The Steinhart offers incomparable value for its function-forward build and detail-oriented design. If you’re looking to save some dollars, Parnis really nails the GMT-Master look.
As always, Tudor serves up a similar GMT as its older brother does, with brand-specific qualities that make it stand on its own. Meanwhile, the Marc & Sons GMT is an upscale timepiece, handmade in Germany, for a fraction of the cost of any Rolex.
Like the GMT-Master II, the Tudor Black Bay GMT is a Swiss-made Chronometer for travelers. If you’re looking for a luxury brand homage, built as close to Rolex standards as possible at a lower price point, this watch is for you. Plus, as much as it looks like its source material, few would consider it “copy.”
Seiko and Orient each present Pepsi-colored dives inspired by Rolex, but are individualized enough to be legitimate non-copies.
It’s all about deciding what it is about the Pepsi GMT you love most, and finding those specific qualities in an homage.
FAQs
How long is the wait list for a Rolex Pepsi?
When it comes to shorter wait times, it can take eight to 12 months to get an authentic Rolex GMT-Master II, the modern BLRO reference, with an authorized dealer. Factors this depends on include how good your dealer is and your purchase history.
Why does Rolex use Pepsi colors?
Red and blue were also the colors of Pan-Am, the airline Rolex collaborated with to create the GMT-Master. The bold two-tone color of the bezel also makes it easy for pilots to differentiate between AM and PM.
Ever since I received an Omega Seamaster for my 16th birthday, I fell in love with watches. Professionally, this led me to work for New York and LA’s leading auction houses. Personally, it led to a life as a collector, my Seamaster and my Explorer II being my favorite timepieces.
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