2018 Rolex "Pepsi" Watch Review & History - The Greatest GMT Master II Ever Made Or All Hype?

[@maciej_m]

Thank you for the longer, no-gloves wrists shots you've been adding into some of your latest videos. They really help! Please continue with them as the way it really wears is always a biggest concern of many of us. Kepp up the good job, Tristano!

[@Ballsyone]

What is that Tiffany and Co. GMT MASTER at the 5:20 mark on the dial?

[@marccowley5432]

Thanks TGV. A watch I have been lusting after for a while so great to get your take on it. Also fantastic to get a video pop up on a Sunday night (UK time). Keep up the good work! MC

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Marc, hearing that inspires me. Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@vincentchang6046]

This is absolutely the best review I’ve ever seen so far !

[@The134735]

TGV, like you, I'm an '80s baby (born in '83) but this is the first time I have ever loved a Jubilee bracelet. Thanks for the great review!

[@koen8844]

Almost half an hour of pure class. Great review, TGV. The 24 click bezel is a great addition. Very functional indeed. Keep it up 👍. Regards, Koen

[@66jingle]

Absolutely gorgeous, I have a Steinhart 'homage' which I love and the Sellita movement is spot on. Keep up the good work dear fellow! x

[@andychang7137]

This is by far the best and detailed Rolex watch video Thanks and I’ve subscribed :)

[@owentreadgold8658]

As soon as I read the notification and saw that title I couldn’t resist but clicking on

[@bubbab7792]

Flawless background and history review as usual TGV. Not a big Rolex fan, but I admire their marketing and merchandise control. Nobody does it better. Nicely done Sir. All the best.

[@Darko8997]

Hi TGV! It has been a while ago since I last commented on your channel. I’m still a huge follower of this channel and I still think that many of the other watch channels lack the sophistication that your channel has. Thank you for your amazing work. Best regards, Darko

[@theurbangentry]

Darko! I can never forget you. I apologize in case I missed any of your comments. Its getting almost impossible to reply to them all. Thank you so much for the kind words, as always, your comments and support is what makes it all worth it. I only hope I can keep trying to elevate my content. As for other channels, personally I only watch history documentaries and movies reviews on youtube, so I will take your word for it! :D It always makes me happy you are still with us, you are true gentry! Onwards and upwards my friend. Best regards, TGV

[@chiliprepper7678]

Still killing it with intros. 👍👍💀

[@stevedave5673]

I never really understood the passion people feel for the GMT until this video, but I certainly do now. Beautiful pieces. Thank you for the educational and very entertaining video!!

[@dougm659]

Nice work as always TGV, I was never that fussed about the GMT II but this latest batch of variations from Rolex are very impressive, the Root Beer is yummy but actually this one on the Jubilee bracelet is surprisingly cool. I think trying some on makes sense, one needs to feel it on the skin before slapping down the plastic, no?

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Doug and absolutely! Especially at this level, trying before buying is essential. So glad you appreciate the new GMTs, I think they are cracking too. Best regards, TGV

[@dougm659]

The Urban Gentry Tristano, did you see my suggestion about flying to Paris with La Compagnie? My wife and I use them when we travel from the UK to NYC and can’t praise them too highly. Maybe when we come over next year we could meet for a chat about, guess what? Ciao Doug

[@jurepog]

What do you think about the Tudor gmt and Tudor bb 58? They actually made me think about not getting a rolex

[@KKOKAJ]

Those intros man, they emit quality!

[@rileychesters16]

Really happy to see this upload. Always makes me smile when I see your videos pop up in my notifications. Hope you're having a wonderful day.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much, hearing that had just made my day better! I am having a great day, I hope you are too. Best regards, TGV

[@vonbondeuce5368]

Hey TGV, what are your thoughts on the Maurice Lacroix Aikon?

[@Don-ss9xv]

This video is so well done. You have come a long way with continuous improvement. Cheers!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Don, very kind of you to say. Best regards, TGV

[@benmcgrath396]

I've waiting for this review for ages. Cheers Guvnor!

[@theurbangentry]

Sorry it took so long, these are so ruddy difficult to get a hold of! Thank you Ben, Best regards, TGV

[@1Rolinha]

Truly an amazing watch indeed. I especially love the innovations, and and improvements to what is a very iconic design. I agree with you on the colors of its ceramic bezel. It doesn’t “pop” as much as in previous models, but still looks great and is yet another advancement. Thank you very much for such a well researched and detailed review.

[@彭祥水]

Hi朋友下午好2-12早上我几点..在车站等你 廈

[@auxmike]

This is a big one, mate. You hit a home run on this review! My hands would have been shaking the whole time:)

[@andypccwliu8105]

Fantastic review TGV! The new GMT is overhyped so much that everyone will say they want one because of the crazy value. You are the first one to say NO. Thank you for your honest opinion. Thumb up

[@DenisHauser]

Very nice Pepsi Rolex. (The old Batman in the comics was in black/blue.)

[@adriengoux]

Hi, Does anybody knows why existing models are not switching to the new movement ? I just try a white gold. The sales person was saying it’s a brand new movement but the Rolex website is saying it’s still the previous one. Thanks

[@Kaparzo]

A bit related to this video, I got my first 'real' watch today. The 'pepsi' SKX009J was my choice, in a large part thanks to you and your informative channel. I have become pretty addicted to your videos. The SARB017 is the next on my list! Thank you for all the help.

[@vintagej7379]

Beutiful time piece, I love the ceramic bezel it makes the watch come alive

[@jonnyhunt6767]

That aluminium bezel is so perfect !! I Love it's vibrancy! Another great vid mate.

[@tonymaiettasr.7340]

That ceramic bezel does it for me. If only I had " i soldi "

[@philjagelski1772]

Wonderfully done and very informative. The watch itself is the perfect update and evolution of an endeared classic, adding more durability, reliability and precision. I think the two tone red/blue ceramic bezel is absolutely stunning, and this was definitely a show stopper at Basel. Two things to mention. First, I have never been a fan of the 'busy' look of the jubilee bracelet and wish Rolex would have offered it with the larger solid link style (i.e. Submariner). Although the jubilee now has small solid link segments (as compared with the old hollow rolled still strips) and the stretch problem was solved, its still too busy and gets dirty too easily. The second is a great observation you made regarding the old style 'lumed' bezel. If the Rolex gods can figure a way to offer a ceramic bezel with lume, they will absolutely have yet another home run! Please Rolex, can you do it!!!!

[@TrigoBonsai]

Hey man, what do you think about the Orient Triton? please try to make a video about it if possible. Loving your work, best regards.

[@NO-TRUCKS-GIVEN]

Great intro & I really like you went into such detail on the history of the gmt 👍🏻

[@perkinwarbeck3029]

Got mine today and I LOVE it! 2 years and two months on the wait list worth every day!!!

[@DiZdain]

Seriously the best BLRO review on KZbin. Phenomenal job with this. Stunning watch as well that truly deserves the recognition it gets.

[@gtd772]

I love absolutely everything about this watch ... save for the bezel colors. While I realize the "Pepsi" has become iconic in its own right, I'd practically kill for a steel Rolex GMT -- updated caliber and all new tech included -- with a white (0600-1800) and black (1800-0600) bezel, on an oyster bracelet.

[@patxmcq]

God damn a black+white GMT would be fuego. yin-yang shyt

[@M0dos2]

patxmcq Omega Planet Ocean Master GMT . They are the first brand making the impossible possible and combined black and white in a ceramic bezel 😉

[@augustingalle1]

How do you move the second time zone hand ?

[@johnprice909]

Nice review - always enjoy the bits about history that you preface these reviews with. That Jubilee bracelet has come a LONG way! I have my Dad's old two tone Datejust (mid to late 80s model), it's on a Jubilee bracelet that as you say, is loveable but rather "low spec". This GMT is a beautiful watch but out of my price range anytime soon. By the way, sent you an email regarding another matter. Ciao, John

[@mcrae1977]

Hey TGV, Could you perhaps do a video on 'True GMT' vs ETA based GMT and show their differences?

[@leverkuhn67]

Awesome review of this beautiful piece. I truly love this watch. And I really admire your insightful and smart comments and the quality of all of your videos. Even someone who's not particularly into watches (my wife, for example) can enjoy it. Thanks!

[@theurbangentry]

Reading your comment just made my day. Thank you so much for sharing that. Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@omoniyikaye]

ANOTHER GEM OF A VIDEO FROM MY HOMEBOY. A GIFT TO THE WORLD.

[@williamtawiah887]

I was having a look in the archives for a video to watch today and then I get a notification that tgv has made a new video!!!!!!!!! . best regards to you and the viewer's of the urban Gentry

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you William, your dedication it flattering and deeply appreciated. Onwards and upward my friend! Best regards, TGV

[@davidmichienzi101]

Great review TGV, that's one of the reasons why I enjoy your channel. You always give your honest opinion, even with high end brands👍🇮🇹

[@xXMOoOHDXx]

is it posable to change the bezel ???

[@TheSweede12]

Another superb video. You are definitely in my holy trinity of utube channels

[@aciel-tv]

one of the best watch reviews/videos ever from your channel. you sound more excited with this watch haha.. more of the new watches pls. i have a 116520 daytona.. looking to add a gmt master 1675 soon, have already put my name on both 116500 & 12610BLRO wait lists.. (doubt i m ever going to get it though, lul).. which is your favourite GMT though?

[@danoconnor6272]

Great video! Do you have any duels coming up soon? Missing them. Would love to see Glycine's combat sub take on the C Ward Trident. Or perhaps the sexy new Tudor Black Bay 58 vs the Omega Seamaster.

[@ilyasymonenko3809]

Excellent review, as expected from TGV. Lovely intro. But falls short from Tudor's Black Bay Chrono, if you get my drift (pun not intended). What are your thoughts on a TAG HEUER Monaco Calibre 11? Would love to see you review.

[@ahmedhishamdr8485]

The best review for this particular watch by far..well done and totally agree with your opinions about it👍

[@elix9099]

Absolute perfection I'll come back to this video in 5 years when I get one.

[@martyhastings9347]

yes like you said it "depends on which one does it for you" .....................that being said, i do so like the new one . thanks for sharing.

[@enzoetech]

I'm thinking of buying either the 2018 pepsi gmt or the 2018 everose steel. In terms of rarity, which one would u recommend?

[@sharadwatbhattacharya3685]

Please review the Victorinox infantry mechanical on mesh bracelet reference 241587.

[@jayh9144]

The intro makes me want to go on vacation. Well done!

[@theurbangentry]

LOL, thank you Jay. Very much appreciated, it had the same effect on me when I was editing it ;-) Best regards, TGV

[@claesronnenberg5829]

You get a like for that intro alone!

[@mrg1911]

Wonderful review and great camera work! I'll be getting this watch soon primarily due to the new Jubilee.....with the Oyster-Lock-Clasp no less! I also think the colors are fantastic......but would buy the Black & Red too, had Rolex introduced that instead of Blue & Red this year. So many watch guys can only judge a new watch by comparing it to an older one. If there were NO other watches on earth, this would still look outstanding on its own. Thanks so much for a great video!

[@theurbangentry]

Excellent comment and forgive me for comparing, I can't help it! Being a Pepsi owner, it's inevitable I guess. I hope you go for it, you will love it. Please let me know how it goes. Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@mrg1911]

Ah sorry....after I posted I knew should have been more specific. NOT you....but the fellows on the forums who don't care for it, seem to base their dislike on previous color versions. We have no other frame of reference than older items I suppose, but my point was this is a BEAUTY on its own. And NOW ....after your video...I want it more than ever! If you're ever in New England, we should have Tea and discuss watches. Thanks again....

[@theurbangentry]

Always a pleasure and thank you for the gracious offer, I would love that!

[@mrg1911]

The Urban Gentry As a follow up...... My AD phoned me a couple of weeks ago so I picked up this watch at MSRP. It’s very nice, and I love the coloring and Jubilee. I’ll wear it to Switzerland this coming week, but will probably keep the 24 hour hand in sync with local time. I’ve worn this brand for 40 years and while I witness the frenzy around the professional series, I don’t like them more than the Datejust. The watch I’m wearing at any given time is my favorite.....Explorer-I or II, Datejust-41, or this new GMT. (I gave my old watches to my kids) Thanks...

[@JustWatchreviews]

Excellent work as always TGV. Great watch!

[@josejoaquinmiguel7099]

I guess you need the tudor 58 next.

[@RobertLynch1]

Any chance you will be reviewing the Seiko Prospex Diver 300M Hi-Beat SLA025 upon its release?

[@robertconquest2220]

An excellent review TGV on a watch that one day I would love to own. Maybe you should do a review based on the difficulties that we have in obtaining one and the various different views by AD’s in the criteria you need in order to even get on the list. It would be interesting to hear from other members who may have come across this also.

[@bluebox303]

I also agree that the antics and artificial scarcity games being played need to be highlighted so that people are aware of why this may just be another ceramic Daytona.

[@FatSamEIE]

It’s part of the reason privately owned brands like Rolex are doing so much better than other brands. They can protect the brand by not cheapening it and saturating the market like Omega do- you can get 20-30% discount easily on most omega models and Omega is said to be struggling. Rolex increase demand and keep people wanting more, they make slight changes and discontinue popular models and this adds to the allure, mystique and the increasing value of the second hand market... which makes Rolex seem a better value proposition than other brands as they hold/increase their value so well. It’s frustrating for us but it kinda makes sense

[@barrycolmer324]

Thats a great point/idea

[@buikschuiver1]

Very Nice review! Thanx

[@federiconapoli]

Great review TGV, my compliments.

[@Akuilius]

I think the Blue/Black GMT is called Batman, because of the older costumes, around 1960. They had a combination of black and blue. But today black and yellow reminds more of Batman than blue and black.

[@themonk51]

Informative review.

[@TheAlf61]

Beautiful in depth review and video quality !

[@donald2818]

TGV, surprised to see a folded link bracelet on your watch. I knew the clasp was stamped steel back then but didn't realize that about the links.

[@evaninnewport]

another great vid TGV. thank you. this looks great but, as someone who doesn't travel overseas that much, the GMT function is superfluous. that extra hand just gets in the way. but I can certainly appreciate the complication for frequent travellers. cheers

[@EnriqueGiliOrtiz]

Thank you for such an interesting review (I was waiting for it!). I especially love the new rose gold-steel version...It is an amazing watch in all senses. All the best!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Enrique, I adore that everose gold version too! Best regards, TGV

[@japd7897]

Excellent video, as usual. Thank you!. Best from Spain!!!!

[@Apatetika]

TGV, your videos are so impressive, through these few years I’ve found your channel I’ve absolutely loved it. Through my profile picture and content, I don’t come across as a watch person, but I really am and am at awe of your collection! Going to have to skip this one however, money doesn’t grow on trees as they say, a man needs to eat!

[@kjeldpedersen666]

Hi TGV Very good historical description of this models development over the years... I can see the strength of the new model and even kind of like the new bezels more discrete appearance. But then there’s the charm of the vintage ones. Hmm... For me the case is settled for economical reasons alone😝 Whatever model the Rolex GMT is a fantastic and iconic watch... Keep up the good work👍

[@azncaramel69]

Awesome review! Just bought a Grand Seiko Snowflake SBGA211 this past weekend from Dan! It was an amazing buying experience, and he's stellar to work with. They're moving their storefront to a new location in Plano, and it's going to be in an amazing outdoor shopping center with equally amazing good eats and restaurants. If you ever get the chance, come to Dallas to check it all out! Many thanks to you, TGV, for inspiring my interest in horology! :D Now looking to maybe add a Nomos and Squale to my slowly growing collection!

[@DSlyter1995]

Excellent video as always TGV! I was wondering what your opinion is on Wenger watches? They make affordable utilitarian watches that claim to be "Swiss made". I picked up a Wenger field classic for $35 on eBay. I just don't know if they're decent or not.

[@peterr.7429]

Wonderful review , thank you so much

[@MJagger89]

Great review!

[@johnhipwell5989]

Just got my new GMT Pepsi from my AD, so happy> Its great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@matslundgren1632]

I am just curious about how many of those 10 filed patent application that have actually been granted, any input anyone?

[@barrycolmer324]

What a fantastic review, loved it immensely and Im loving this channel. Only recently subscribed to it and its a big favourite of mine already. Not sure how I feel really, I love them both for different reasons and perhaps to own them both would be ideal? Actually it wouldn't, part of the fun in horology is the journey of owning something so beautiful. By all accounts, I have zero chance of owning the 2018 version anyway, which is a shame, as the GMT has been on my wish list since a young man. Its funny, my love of watches and of time generally comes from I don't know where, its just 'there' I even loved the sound of a ticking clock in my bedroom at grandmas as a child.....quite comforting lol! Anyway, I will hopefully be winning the bid for a Timex Marlin 69' around 9pm tonight? That was a great video also, keep it up!

[@Boki199611]

The first GMT could only track 2 time zones by the movement of the bezel itself, not 3 time zones. Great video!

[@leo9272]

I love this channel. You got me into watches and I'm very gratefull for that! I can't thank you enough, but thank you!

[@waltersobchak3838]

Would love to hear your opinion on the Alsta Nautoscaph automatic

[@greekatso]

I didn't care for the pastel like color of this when it first came out, which they call the MK1. The slightly darker MK2 bezel has really grown on me, I have yet to see one in person, but hope to add one to the collection.

[@sypen1]

I just picked one up the mark 2 is perfect. I hated the original color.

[@nlslmmns]

Great review! Thx!

[@small-differences]

A much-anticipated review. You’ve skillfully set the BLRO in the appropriate context of its history and related references. I’m afraid Rolex have set their course with the red hue for their ceramic bezel, however, the engineering improvements from the movement to the bracelet certainly make this a worthy pick for those enamored with the legacy. ✌️❤️

[@GroovyCachinDude]

A really great review. Thank you.

[@alexm2113]

Great watch, and I really respect Rolex from a horological standpoint. I just wish they didn't restrict supply to keep demand high and make it so hard to get certain models unless you have a "relationship" (i.e. spent tens of thousands in watches) with an AD. Excellent review as always TGV.

[@theurbangentry]

Very good point and thank you Alex for the words of support. Onwards and upwards, Best regards, TGV

[@vvvhhhhhbb]

Haha 8 minute and 30 seconds later the real quick history lesson is over. Brilliant review mate.

[@rollywood2793]

Great review, and great video! Just got the 126711CHNR "root beer" today, stunning!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you :D Oh you lucky jammy devil, you must be over the moon! Enjoy it my friend, I feel happy for you! Best regards, TGV

[@rollywood2793]

Yes, very excited, bought it from AD in UK, (Rolex MSRP, no discount on new release), and was offered a bottle of French Champagne to go with it... (I am a regular client, but still I feel lucky indeed to get this watch).

[@roger5621981]

Titi teatea I got it a few months back and have not used it....

[@bobfrombrisbane1831]

Great review TGV. The new Pepsi looks great and with 70 hour power reserve how could you go wrong? ⌚️⏱🍾

[@Palowaski]

👍🏽🔥dynamite 💥your presentation is absolutely outstanding sir - such a beautiful piece but I can say I agree with you regarding your reference, that would be my preference🍻

[@axlcrush1954]

The 5-link Jubilee bracelet puts me off. Old fashioned look for a modern GMT. They should have swapped the bracelets between the white gold and SS pepsi.

[@adehall8504]

I had a steel good version of the GMT2... as my eyesight worsened, I found it hard to read. For me the ratio of the dial to bezel is out, as the actual dial size is quite small, relative to the watch. Mechanically, however, it was great. I look at the watch you reviewed and instantly would say that and desk work would trash that clasp in minutes. Today, 40mm is too small. The look is better than the older version bezel. I’d never think of owning one again, or any other Rolex, until the case diameter is larger. Great review...

[@khronokraze]

A fantastic look at the history, variants and comparison of the famed GMT Master series of watches from Rolex. As nice as the latest GMT Master II is, I still like yours or any of the older ones which have the aluminum bezel insert. 1) As you say, the ceramic just doesn't quite have the pop and luster as aluminum 2) The ceramic will never fade and give that cool faded bezel look 3) The numbers on the modern GMT Master II's, not just this one, are a bit too big and bold. I think I much prefer the smaller more understated numbers on your style of GMT Master II. Additionally, visually, the spacing between the numbers on the older styles are more even than the newer ones. And, I agree. I would have loved to have Rolex go back to the very early GMT Masters which had the lumed bakelite insert. Perhaps bakelite was a bit fragile, but certainly they could make something comparable in sapphire, couldn't they? 1) It looks super cool and has this added dimension to the look of the bezel 2) Such a lumed bezel would be most useful with the lumed GMT hand. Since the lumed bakelite bezel had stopped being produced, it never made much sense to me why they continue to lume the GMT hand when you don't even have a GMT scale that is also lumed to use it with? Granted, you probably won't be viewing the watch in such absolute darkness. But, the practicality, or rather the lack of practicality in having only half the GMT information lumed and legible still remains.

[@pstamaria]

Thx for another great review dude. I think Rolex were really smart to call the Black-Blue Bezel the ‘Batman’! I believe they called it that because in the 60’s, Batman was always depicted in a Blue & Black costume 😉

[@lecorsaire2283]

Philip Sta Maria They don’t call it that! All of these nicknames come from the watch community. Same with Hulk, Kermit, Coke, Root Beer, Bluesy. The only official nickname they have used in the past is president for the Day-Date.

[@amde8554]

I wanted to thank you for introducing me to non-fashion watches. I just received an Orient automatic watch and am loving it so far!

[@JoshLevente]

What a beauty @4:46 similar to the Tudor Watch in Bronze. o.O

[@charlesfield9286]

Another great vid thanks

[@thewiseyoutubeman4535]

Incredible piece but I must admit I also prefer & enjoy the look and charm of your vintage Pepsi GMT. Wonderful review keep it up sir !!

[@elvinburgos3552]

The Tudor GMT has my eye

[@liamollen3105]

Giving a like just for that intro! DAMN!

[@timbodedidleo]

For me it's absolutely a 'utility tool' style of wrist watch, yet gratefully dripping Rolex class. I would love it!