A Closer Look at the Rolex Root Beer

The Rolex GMT Root Beer, often simply referred to as the Rolex Root Beer, is one of the most distinctive designs within Rolex's legendary GMT-Master series. This watch not only reflects Rolex’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship but also highlights the longstanding tradition of enthusiasts assigning playful nicknames to their favorite models. Defined by its unique two-tone bezel blending rich brown and gold hues, the Rolex Root Beer offers a striking aesthetic that sets it apart. It seamlessly combines functionality with a bold, differentiated design, making it a favorite among collectors who seek a GMT-Master with a distinctive personality.

Key Takeaways: Rolex Root Beer Overview

Feature	Why It Matters
Distinctive Bezel	Brown and gold two-tone bezel gives the Root Beer its signature vintage charm and instantly recognizable look.
Case & Bracelet	Crafted in Oystersteel and Everose gold, the 40 mm case balances durability with refined elegance.
Movement	Powered by the Caliber 3285 with Chronergy escapement and a 70-hour power reserve for exceptional precision.
Dual Time Zone	GMT hand and 24-hour bezel allow simultaneous tracking of two time zones, ideal for travelers.
Design Appeal	Combines retro tones with modern Cerachrom for a bold yet timeless design.
Collector Appeal	Limited production, celebrity associations, and strong demand make it highly coveted among Rolex collectors.

History and Legacy of the Rolex GMT Master

The Rolex GMT-Master was introduced in 1955, originally designed to meet the needs of pilots and frequent travelers who required a reliable way to track multiple time zones. In classic Rolex fashion, the watch delivered an elegant and practical solution to this challenge.

The GMT-Master’s innovative genius lay in the addition of a fourth hand, a 24-hour GMT hand, complementing the traditional hour, minute, and second hands. This additional hand allowed wearers to track a second time zone in conjunction with the watch’s signature rotating bezel, which featured 24-hour numerals. Pilots could set the GMT hand to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the global time standard, and rotate the bezel to quickly reference local time in their destination. More than just a design feature, the bezel’s two-tone coloring provided an intuitive visual cue—separating daytime and nighttime hours for easy reading at a glance.

Building on the popularity of the original GMT-Master, Rolex introduced the GMT-Master II in 1982. This upgraded version featured a larger case, improved functionality, and a movement that allowed independent adjustment of the hour hand, making it even more practical for world travelers.

Rolex GMT Master Root Beer Reference 1675

The Evolution of the Rolex Root Beer

The Rolex Root Beer variant made its first appearance in 1970 with the introduction of the Rolex GMT-Master reference 1675/3. This model was the first to showcase the now-iconic brown and gold bezel, which immediately distinguished it from the more commonly seen blue-and-red “Pepsi” and black-and-red “Coke” bezel variants.

Rolex GMT Root Beer — Rolex GMT Master Root Beer Reference 16713

Nearly two decades later, Rolex introduced the GMT-Master II Root Beer with the reference 16713, produced in stainless steel and yellow gold. This model continued to attract attention for its warm, earthy tones, offering a vintage appeal that resonated with collectors. However, in 2006, Rolex discontinued this reference, leaving fans of the Root Beer aesthetic longing for its return.

That wish was granted in 2018 when Rolex revived the Root Beer colorway with the reference 126711CHNR. This modern iteration introduced the latest advancements in Rolex engineering, featuring a black-and-brown Cerachrom ceramic bezel, which provided superior durability and scratch resistance. The reintroduction of the Root Beer GMT delighted fans who sought an alternative to the popular Batman and Pepsi variants while still maintaining the watch’s signature aesthetic.

The Rolex Root Beer’s appeal has also been amplified by its association with high-profile celebrities. Notable figures such as Clint Eastwood, Dwayne Johnson, Sylvester Stallone, and professional golfers Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler have all been spotted sporting this distinctive timepiece, further cementing its status as a desirable and fashionable luxury watch.

However Rolex fans and followers were pleased to see th e Rolex Root Beer re-introduced in 2018 in the form of the black and brown Cerachrom variant (126711CHNR). This remains a popular modern GMT model for those looking to differentiate from the Rolex Batman and Pepsi variants.

Key Features of the Rolex Root Beer

Distinctive Bezel: The defining feature of the Rolex Root Beer is its unique two-tone bezel, featuring a rich brown and gold color scheme. This signature look not only sets it apart from other GMT-Master models but also gives it an unmistakable vintage charm.
Case and Bracelet: The watch is crafted using a blend of Oystersteel and Everose gold, offering a refined yet sporty aesthetic. The robust 40mm Oyster case ensures durability, while the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Triplock screw-down crown enhance water resistance and reliability.
Movement: The modern Rolex Root Beer is powered by the in-house Caliber 3285, an advanced automatic movement renowned for its precision and efficiency. It features Rolex’s Chronergy escapement, providing enhanced energy efficiency and a remarkable 70-hour power reserve, ensuring dependable performance.
Dual Time Zone Functionality: As part of the Rolex GMT-Master series, the Root Beer allows travelers to track two time zones simultaneously. The additional GMT hand, in conjunction with the 24-hour graduated bezel, makes it easy to reference a second time zone without any complications.
Retro Yet Modern Design: The brown and gold hues give the watch a nostalgic vintage appeal, yet Rolex has seamlessly integrated modern advancements such as Cerachrom ceramic and cutting-edge movement technology, making it both a stylish and high-performance timepiece.

The Rolex Root Beer continues to hold a special place in the prestigious GMT-Master lineup. With its distinctive color scheme, cutting-edge movement, and rich heritage, it remains a standout choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether admired for its nostalgic appeal or appreciated for its modern refinements, the Rolex Root Beer is a true testament to Rolex’s ability to blend tradition with innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Rolex Root Beer

When was the Rolex Root Beer first introduced?

The Rolex Root Beer made its debut in the early 1970s with the reference 1675/3, marking the first appearance of the iconic brown-and-gold bezel. Its warm color palette and two-tone construction offered a distinctive alternative to the more common Pepsi and Coke GMT variants, quickly earning a loyal following among collectors and travelers alike.

What makes the modern Rolex Root Beer different?

The latest Rolex GMT-Master II Root Beer (Ref. 126711CHNR), introduced in 2018, reimagines the classic design using Cerachrom ceramic for enhanced durability and fade resistance. The addition of Everose gold, Rolex’s proprietary rose gold alloy, gives the watch a refined and modern appearance, while the Caliber 3285 movement delivers superior precision and a 70-hour power reserve.

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