Rolex Pepsi Discontinued: The End of an Iconic Era
In a major development for the watch world, the Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi” has officially been discontinued as of April 13–14, 2026. During Watches and Wonders 2026, Rolex quietly removed the model from its official website and catalog—confirming what had long been rumored.
This marks the end of the modern ceramic Pepsi’s 12-year production run, closing a significant chapter in Rolex history.
What Exactly Has Been Discontinued?
The discontinuation affects all modern Pepsi GMT-Master II references, including:
- 126710BLRO (Stainless Steel) – Both Jubilee and Oyster bracelet versions
- 126719BLRO (White Gold) – Including all variants
With their removal, Rolex has fully exited the red-and-blue bezel configuration from its current lineup.
Why Did Rolex Discontinue the Pepsi?
While Rolex never publicly confirms the reasoning behind discontinuations, industry consensus points to one major factor:
Cerachrom Bezel Production Challenges
The red-and-blue ceramic bezel has long been one of the most difficult components for Rolex to manufacture. Achieving consistent color separation, durability, and quality at scale has reportedly caused ongoing production constraints.
This technical challenge is widely believed to be the primary driver behind the decision.
A 12-Year Modern Run Comes to an End
Although the “Pepsi” nickname dates back to 1954, this specific modern ceramic version had a more recent story:
- Reintroduced in 2014 after a hiatus (2007–2014)
- Produced for approximately 12 years in its current form
- Became one of the most in-demand Rolex models globally
Its combination of heritage design and modern materials made it a cornerstone of the GMT-Master II collection.
Immediate Market Reaction
As expected, the market responded instantly to the news:
- Grey market prices have already increased
- Dealer inventory tightened further overnight
- Collector demand surged as buyers rushed to secure remaining pieces
This reaction mirrors previous Rolex discontinuations, where scarcity quickly translates into higher valuations.
What Remains in the GMT-Master II Lineup?
With the Pepsi now discontinued, Rolex’s current GMT-Master II offerings include:
The absence of the red-and-blue configuration marks a significant shift in the collection’s identity.
Why This Discontinuation Matters
The Pepsi isn’t just another Rolex—it’s one of the most iconic watch designs ever created. Its discontinuation signals:
- The end of a modern classic
- Increased long-term collectibility
- A likely upward trajectory in value
For collectors and enthusiasts, this moment represents both a loss and an opportunity.
Looking to Secure a Rolex Pepsi in Dubai?
With production officially ended, sourcing a Pepsi is now more competitive than ever. Availability will only tighten as existing pieces are absorbed into private collections.
At Big Moe Watches, we specialize in sourcing discontinued and high-demand Rolex models with speed and reliability.
Contact us today—we can help you secure a Rolex Pepsi in Dubai with same-day availability.
