BaselWorld 2018 witnessed the return of Rolex’s divisive GMT Master II ‘Pepsi’ – albeit with some rather interesting upgrades that will certainly set it apart from previous models on the secondary market. Often colloquially referred to as the ‘Pepsi’ on account of its two-tone red and blue Cerachrom bezel, this white gold incarnation of the GMT Master II - which made its debut back in 2014 - has held cult appeal on account of offering a break from the norm in comparison to more pedestrian watch designs.
In this review, we’ll be taking a brief look at the history of the GMT Master II, what the revamped 2018 Rolex GMT Master II 126719BLRO brings to the table, how much it is predicted to be worth in the near future and how you can get your hands on one.
Contents
Taking flight: the history of the Rolex GMT Master II
What about the 2019 GMT Master II?
Should I buy a 2018 or 2019 Rolex GMT Master II?
3285 automatic calibre: a great all-rounder
How much is a Rolex GMT Master II 126719BLRO worth?
Rolex 2018 White Gold GMT Master II 126719BLRO: essential information
Taking flight: the history of the Rolex GMT Master II
The original Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date GMT Master was initially conceived as part of a collaboration with Pan American Airways back in 1954, when the airline company sought to provide its navigators and pilots with a means to co-ordinate across different time zones. The result was the GMT Master, which featured a 24-hour hand complication linked to a standard 12-hour hand and a rotatable 24-hour bezel. These features allow pilots and aviation staff to easily read and convert different time zone information while planning flights, taking weather forecasts into account and filling in paperwork.
However, it would be nearly three decades before the Rolex GMT Master II arrived commercially. While at first glance the GMT Master II appears identical to the original model, it makes use of a movement which features the capability to independently adjust a quickset hour hand without disturbing the minutes or stopping the seconds elsewhere on the watch. In addition to this, the rotatable bezel now allowed for a third-time zone reference to be quickly computed.
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White Gold GMT Master II
Initial Rolex GMT Master II models were considered as functional work timepieces and were therefore only available in stainless steel. However, in 2014 the brand launched a white gold GMT Master II, which made use of the 3186 movement and featured the instantly recognisable blue-and-red “Pepsi” bezel.
The latest version this review focuses on (reference 126719BLRO) retains the white gold and Pepsi bezel. It also features an Oyster bracelet with polished centre links and brushed finish outer layer. This incarnation of the Rolex GMT Master II is incredibly comfortable to wear, thanks to its curved lugs. It measures 40mm in diameter not including the crown and has a COSC-certified automatic calibre (the 3285 movement which has been found in many automatic Rolex models since it replaced the 3186 movement back in 2018).
What about the 2019 GMT Master II?
Just one year after the Jubilee version of the GMT Master II was released, Rolex unveiled an updated form of the watch with a rather eye-catching meteorite dial. This 2019 version combines elements of the 2014 and 2018 GMT Master II models, including the Pepsi bezel and white gold finish.
A dial from the heavens, for those who traverse the sky
By far the most interesting addition to the 2019 Rolex GMT Master II 126719BLRO is the meteorite dial. Yes, that’s correct; it features a dial manufactured from space rock which has landed on the earth, namely Gibeon meteorite. While it’s true that Rolex has employed meteorite dials in the past (most notably with a white gold Rolex Daytona back in 2008), this is the first time a GMT has been adorned with one. Anybody with a passing interest in space and/or archaeology will be familiar with the discovery of the Gibeon meteorite. For those who aren’t, perhaps it’s time for a brief history lesson:
The Gibeon meteorite is thought to have hurtled through the atmosphere of our earth and crashed down during pre-historic times, in the country now known as Namibia. This meteorite was first reported to the western world by Captain JE Alexander back in 1836, when he discovered the Nama people had routinely used the strong meteorite to create weapons and tools.
This meteorite is composed mostly of iron and nickel and offers something of a unique and unusual shine. It is thought to have originated as a piece of molten core from a planet, which has subsequently travelled through space for millennia. During its journey, physicists theorise that the molten rock cooled down in the vacuum of space, thereby creating the unique crystallised iron/nickel patterns which can be admired on the dial of the 126719BLRO. It certainly creates something of a talking point, and while it might be an unusual choice for a functional watch like the GMT Master II, there can be no denying that it is certainly an elegant touch.
To date, it is estimated that approximately 25 tonnes of Gibeon meteorite fragments have been recovered. It is thought to have been used for practically every meteorite watch dial on the market today – and despite somewhat widespread use, there’s actually something special about that. Essentially, when you purchase a Rolex GMT Master II 126719BLRO, you’re providing yourself with a unique opportunity to own a piece of prehistoric space rock, of which only finite amounts remain – and that’s pretty damn cool, if you ask us.
Should I buy a 2018 or 2019 Rolex GMT Master II?
Put simply, this is a watch that exudes style, regardless of which version you choose. Let’s face it, digital tools have largely made aviation watches a thing of the past – so make no mistake, while the two latest incarnations of the GMT Master II might be about engineering prowess and innovation, they’re above all about image and owning a piece of history. Both models serve as ideal timepieces for those who want to make a statement or capture the attention of fellow horology enthusiasts.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Some find the almost midnight blue inky hue of the 2018 model a little too prominent, while others consider the meteorite finish to be somewhat gimmicky or flashy. Regardless of which is your personal favourite, it’s worth noting that as in investment there is little that separates the two models in terms of value on the secondary market, despite the meteorite version costing significantly more on release.
3285 automatic calibre: a great all-rounder
Rolex’s 3285 calibre is a next-generation movement which has been a mainstay since its introduction in 2018. It is thought that this movement will be used in all Rolex GMT watches in the near future – and if Rolex is anything to go by, this could be some time. After all, why change a winning concept if you really don’t have to?
This self-winding calibre has been designed and created entirely in-house by Rolex. In comparison to its predecessor (calibre 3186), it boasts great shock and magnetism resistance, and an improved power reserve of 70 hours (up from 50 hours) and an overall 15% improved efficiency.
Shock resistance has been improved thanks to the inclusion of all-new Paraflex shock absorbers. In addition to this, the 3285 movement also features Rolex’s patented blue Parachrom hairspring, which is said to be up to ten times more resilient than conventional hairsprings when subjected to shocks.
Like predominantly all modern Rolex calibres, the 3285 exceeds the COSC certification standards, offering increased levels of precision with tolerances of no more than -2 to +2 seconds per day.
Rolex 2018 White Gold GMT Master II 126719BLRO: essential information
- Diameter: 40mm
- Dial finish: Blue
- Lume: Chromalight (on the hour markers and hands)
- Water resistance level: 100 metres
- Bracelet: Oyster bracelet in white gold with an Oysterlock
- Movement: 3285
- Power reserve: 70 hours
- COSC Chronometer certification: Yes
How much is a Rolex GMT Master II 126719BLRO worth?
When the 126719BLRO launched back in 2018, it had a price tag of just below £30,000. However, models were scarce and mostly snapped up on release, thereby increasing the demand for the latest GMT Master II. In a little over two years, the 126719BLRO now trades on the secondary market for as much as £40,000 – a great investment indeed for those who spotted the opportunity.
If you would like to buy or sell a Rolex GMT Master II 126719BLRO, Chrono Hunter is the best way to do so. When you submit a purchase or sell request with us, you can compare offers from trusted retailers. This means you can buy or sell at a price that suits you, safe in the knowledge you’re working with a reputable dealer.
Because we only work with trustworthy retailers, you’ll always be guaranteed a fair deal, and you can buy or sell with complete confidence. For more information, why not contact us today?
Conclusion
The Rolex White Gold GMT Master II 126719BLRO is a highly desirable, highly collectable, highly sought-after timepiece which makes perfect sense from an investment perspective. It’s a unique, interesting timepiece which will routinely create a talking point, and it pairs well with smart-casual outfits. As a great all-rounder, it should come as no surprise to learn how popular the 126719BLRO currently is - nor would it be any stretch to suggest that it will remain an in-demand model for years to come. If you’ve got one to sell, you’ll be pleased to find out that your investment has increased; if you’re in the market for one, you can almost guarantee that the 126719BLRO will appreciate in value over the coming years.
Ultimately, the Rolex White Gold GMT Master II 126719BLRO is fun, intriguing, thought-provoking and unusual – and it’s easy to see why launch day sales meant that the model had virtually sold out. Thankfully, you can still find the 126719BLRO on the secondary market – so why not start here at Chrono Hunter?
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